Contemporary interior design is all about what’s popular and fresh right now. Unlike other design styles that follow strict rules from the past, contemporary design changes with the times. Today’s contemporary look features clean lines, open spaces, and a mix of comfort and style. It takes the best ideas from many different styles but keeps things simple and uncluttered. If you like homes that feel current, calm, and a bit bold all at once, contemporary design might be perfect for you.
The Basics of Contemporary Design
Contemporary design has its own special feel that makes it different from other styles. It’s important to understand what makes this style unique before you start decorating your home.
What “Contemporary” Really Means
The word “contemporary” simply means “of the current time.” This makes contemporary design different from other styles because it’s always changing. What was contemporary in the 1990s looks different from contemporary design today. Right now, contemporary design borrows some ideas from mid-century modern, minimalism, and even industrial styles, but mixes them in new ways. The style will keep changing as new ideas and materials become popular.
Contemporary vs. Modern Design
Many people mix up contemporary and modern design, but they’re not the same thing. Modern design actually refers to a specific time period from around the 1920s to the 1970s. It has set rules and a distinct look. Contemporary design is more fluid and refers to what’s happening right now. Modern design stays the same over time, but contemporary design evolves. That said, many contemporary rooms today do use some modern furniture pieces because they have come back in style.
Key Elements of Contemporary Interior Design
If you want to create a contemporary space in your home, look for these important features that define the style today:
Color Schemes
Contemporary design typically uses a specific approach to color:
- Neutral base colors (whites, blacks, grays, and beiges)
- Bold accent colors used sparingly
- Tone-on-tone color schemes (different shades of the same color)
- High contrast combinations (like black and white)
- Color blocking (using solid colors in geometric shapes)
The main colors tend to be in the walls, floors, and larger furniture, while bright colors show up in smaller items like pillows, art, or a single piece of furniture that stands out.
Shapes and Lines
Contemporary design is known for its interesting use of lines and shapes:
- Clean, straight lines in furniture and architecture
- Smooth, curved shapes for contrast
- Geometric patterns and forms
- Exposed structural elements (like beams or pipes)
- Open floor plans with clear sight lines
- Large windows creating strong horizontal or vertical lines
- Minimal ornamentation or fussy details
These lines create a sense of order and calmness while the occasional curves add warmth and prevent the space from feeling too cold or stark.
Materials Used in Contemporary Design
Contemporary spaces use a specific mix of materials that balance natural and man-made elements:
Trending Materials
Contemporary design loves these materials:
- Glass (for tables, doors, room dividers)
- Metal (stainless steel, chrome, nickel)
- Concrete (floors, countertops, even furniture)
- Natural stone (especially in bathrooms and kitchens)
- Sustainable woods with visible grain
- Recycled or eco-friendly materials
- Smart materials that serve multiple purposes
Most contemporary spaces mix these materials rather than focusing on just one. For example, a dining room might have a wood table with metal legs, glass light fixtures, and concrete floors.
Textiles and Textures
Fabrics and textures in contemporary design include:
- Natural fibers like cotton, wool, and linen
- Sleek, smooth surfaces balanced with some texture
- Minimal patterns, often geometric when used
- Textural elements like shag rugs or nubby throws
- Performance fabrics that stand up to daily use
- Sustainable and eco-friendly textiles
- Unexpected texture combinations for interest
Contemporary spaces often use texture instead of pattern to add visual interest, like a smooth leather sofa with a highly textured throw pillow.
Contemporary Design by Room
Contemporary style works in every room, but has some special features in different spaces:
Living Rooms
Contemporary living rooms focus on both style and comfort:
- Streamlined sofas with clean lines but deep, comfortable seating
- A mix of lighting types (recessed, floor lamps, table lamps)
- Statement coffee tables in interesting materials
- Open space with room to move around furniture
- Technology integrated but not dominating
- Art as a focal point, often large-scale pieces
- Indoor plants for life and color
- Area rugs to define the seating area
Kitchens
Contemporary kitchens balance function with sleek design:
- Flat-front cabinets without ornate details
- Minimal hardware or handle-free cabinets
- Quartz, concrete, or butcher block countertops
- Streamlined appliances, often built-in
- Statement lighting over islands or dining areas
- Smart storage solutions that hide clutter
- Mixed materials (like wood cabinets with metal accents)
- Open shelving for display of select items
Bedrooms
Contemporary bedrooms create calm, uncluttered retreats:
- Platform beds or simple bed frames
- Minimal bedroom furniture (often just a bed, nightstands, and perhaps one dresser)
- Interesting headboards that create focal points
- Layered bedding in different textures but similar colors
- Hidden storage to maintain the clean look
- Statement lighting instead of traditional bedside lamps
- Minimal window treatments that let in natural light
- Artwork that creates a peaceful mood
Color in Contemporary Design
Color plays a special role in contemporary interiors, creating both the backdrop and the focal points:
Base Color Palettes
Most contemporary spaces start with these base colors:
- Whites (from bright white to soft off-whites)
- Grays (from light silver to deep charcoal)
- Blacks (used as accents or in high contrast schemes)
- Beiges and taupes (warmer neutrals for softer looks)
- Earth tones (especially greens and browns)
These colors create a clean backdrop that lets furniture and art stand out. They also make spaces feel bigger and more open.
Accent Colors
Contemporary design uses these colors for smaller touches and accents:
- Jewel tones (emerald green, sapphire blue, ruby red)
- Citrus colors (especially lemon yellow and lime green)
- Metallics (gold, silver, copper, brass)
- Nature-inspired greens and blues
- Whatever color is trending that year (like Pantone’s color of the year)
These colors show up in throw pillows, art, vases, and occasionally on a single accent wall or piece of furniture.
Furniture in Contemporary Design
Furniture is a key part of contemporary style, with specific types that define the look:
Signature Pieces
Look for these typical contemporary furniture features:
- Low profile seating (sofas and chairs closer to the ground)
- Exposed legs on sofas and chairs
- Multi-functional pieces (like storage ottomans or expandable tables)
- Statement chairs that serve as art pieces
- Simple bed frames, often platform style
- Furniture that combines materials (like wood and metal)
- Pieces that appear to float (wall-mounted cabinets, floating shelves)
- Oversized floor lamps with simple shapes
Layout Approaches
Contemporary rooms arrange furniture in specific ways:
- Conversation areas with furniture facing each other
- Room for movement around main pieces
- Furniture pulled away from walls in larger spaces
- Multipurpose spaces defined by furniture groupings
- Balance between open space and functional areas
- Focus on sight lines and visual flow
- Use of area rugs to define different zones
Contemporary Design Around the World
Contemporary style looks a bit different depending on where you find it:
American Contemporary
In the United States, contemporary design often features:
- More comfortable, casual pieces
- Larger scale furniture
- Mix of influences from different American regions
- Technology integration as a priority
- Practical, family-friendly adaptations
- Open concept layouts as a standard feature
Scandinavian Influence
Contemporary design has been heavily influenced by Scandinavian style, adding:
- Warmer, lighter wood tones
- Cozier elements like throws and candles
- Greater focus on natural materials
- More white and light gray color schemes
- Simple but elegant designs
- Focus on light and connection to outdoors
Contemporary Interior Design Comparison Table
| Feature | Contemporary | Modern | Minimalist | Traditional | Industrial |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Time Period | Current, always evolving | 1920s-1970s | Any time | Classic, timeless | 19th-20th century factories |
| Color Scheme | Neutrals with pops of color | Warm neutrals, primary colors | White, black, neutrals | Rich, varied colors | Raw, neutral, limited palette |
| Materials | Mixed, current trending materials | Wood, leather, some plastics | Limited, often monochromatic | Ornate woods, detailed fabrics | Raw wood, exposed metal, brick |
| Furniture Lines | Clean, curved or straight | Clean, organic curves | Very simple, minimal | Ornate, detailed, curvy | Utilitarian, functional |
| Ornamentation | Minimal, strategic accents | Very little | Almost none | Abundant, detailed | None (function over form) |
| Space Feel | Open, airy, uncluttered | Open, warm, functional | Extremely open, sparse | Cozy, filled, layered | Raw, open, unfinished |
| Signature Elements | Statement art, mixed materials | Iconic pieces, natural shapes | Absolute essentials only | Matched sets, patterns | Exposed pipes, factory pieces |
| Floor Coverings | Simple area rugs, bare floors | Minimal rugs, wood floors | Often bare floors | Wall-to-wall carpet, ornate rugs | Concrete, worn wood, minimal rugs |
Frequently Asked Questions
Is contemporary design expensive to achieve?
Not necessarily. While some contemporary designer pieces are costly, the style’s focus on simplicity means you can achieve the look with carefully chosen affordable pieces. Focus on clean lines and the right colors rather than brand names.
Will contemporary design look dated quickly?
Since contemporary design evolves, some elements may look dated after a while. Focus on more timeless pieces for expensive items (like sofas) and use smaller items (pillows, art) to keep up with trends that change.
Is contemporary design cold or uncomfortable?
It shouldn’t be! Good contemporary design balances clean lines with comfort. Look for sofas that have simple shapes but soft, deep cushions. Add texture through throw blankets and pillows to warm up the space.
Can I mix contemporary design with other styles?
Absolutely! Contemporary design often incorporates elements from other styles. The key is to maintain clean lines and a sense of intentional curation. Pick pieces from other styles that have simpler lines or use them as statement pieces.
Is contemporary design family-friendly?
It can be very family-friendly when done right. Look for performance fabrics, rounded edges on furniture for safety, and good storage solutions to hide clutter. Many contemporary homes feature open floor plans that are great for families.
How do I update my home to be more contemporary?
Start by decluttering and simplifying. Paint walls in neutral colors, remove heavy window treatments, and focus on creating open space. Replace one or two key furniture pieces with more contemporary options. Add statement lighting and art to complete the look.
