MODERN INTERIOR DESIGN ELEMENTS

MODERN INTERIOR DESIGN ELEMENTS
The term modern can range in meaning from a super-stark black metal and cold cement square home in the hip part of town to an updated twist on Mid-Century stylings or even a fresh take on a “Farmhouse” aesthetic. At the end of the day, modern really exists in the eye of the beholder, but there are several elements that I think make interior design modern in 2018. So here are my highlights of the 5 key elements of modern interior design:
USING COLOUR TO MATCH VARIOUS MOOD
Color always tells a story, appealing to different moods and feelings. Modern homes use sophisticated color palettes to create an atmosphere within different spaces. There are no specific colors associated with modern design; homeowners are free to choose the hues that move them.
Modern homeowners also tend to avoid the tans and creams that were so popular throughout the 80s and 90s. Instead, they opt for muted grays, whites or even blacks and navys that can serve as neutrals. Generally, they embrace bold colors, even if only in accents, like throw pillows or trims. But aside from those basics, it’s anything goes.
USE OF TEXTURE AND MATERIALS
Modern home designers often gravitate toward organic elements like live edge and burled wood furniture pieces. These can add a sense of warmth and a more grounded feeling to a room while still keeping it modern. But a little wood can go a long way and it’s important not to go overboard. Woods pair well with both warm-toned neutrals and bold colors. Be sure to mix some “soft” in with your “hard”. Refined elements such as glass or marble, or upscale industrial textures—exposed brick and unpolished steel are all hot right now but again, mix these in with some warm tones so your space doesn’t feel uninviting or cold.
EXAMINING SHAPE AND LINES OF FURNITURE AND OTHER ELEMENTS
The term “lines” speaks more to an item’s outline. Does your sofa have crisp, unornamented lines? Do you favor open, unadorned cabinets? These are what designers refer to as clean lines. However, if you tend toward cushioned chairs and organic shapes, such as a wood slice table, you may be a fan of relaxed lines. While every homeowner is drawn to different forms, generally, a blend of both relaxed and clean lines creates a sense of overall harmony.
BRINGING IN NATURAL LIGHT AND OPENNESS
Open designs that flow from one space to the next are very much in vogue right now. Modern designers strive to open up interiors to create a sense of space and expansiveness in a home. Open interiors also allow homeowners to take maximum advantage of the natural light in their space, since sunlight isn’t blocked by doors and walls. Along the same line, a project may include plans to install new, larger windows to provide even more natural light.
CREATING MIX BETWEEN INDUSTRIAL AND NATURAL ELEMENTS
In modern interior design, it’s not unusual to see a mixture of different elements: rustic wood shelving paired with metallic light fixtures, for instance, or a faux sheep skinned chair with a mid century metal frame. The gritty, sharp industrial elements of seasons past have given way to softer elements and fixtures. But blending these two styles creates tension and generates interest throughout the space.