How to tell the difference between Modern and Contemporary design

What is Modern Design?

The modern design style emerged around the late 19th century to the early 20th century and continued through the post-war era. The modern house design style finds its roots in the German Bauhaus and the Scandinavian schools of design and architecture, and the Modern art movement. The influence of the Art Deco movement is quite evident in modern house design. The modern style transmutes into the mid-century modern style in the 1950s and 1960s.

In stark contrast with the preceding Victorian style, the modern style takes a less is more approach to design. 

What is Contemporary Design?

The contemporary style interior design is, as the name suggests, a style that is in vogue at the moment. More so than a distinctive style, it focuses on what's popular. Therefore, it cannot be tied down to a specific era and is quite fluid.

This ever-evolving style borrows quite some from its predecessors. For example, minimalism is a trait that persists from modern design through contemporary interior design. Apart from styles like Art Deco, Scandinavian and modern, contemporary interior design is also heavily influenced by environmentalism, sustainability, the digital age and globalisation.

1. Interior Design Contemporary vs Modern-Lines and Shapes

The designers rebelled against the curvature, carvings and embellishments of the preceding era. Clean forms that complemented functionality were preferred. The geometric shapes and simplified and stylised ones from the art movements of the period are reflected in interior design.

2. Difference Between Modern and Contemporary Interior Design- Materials and Textures

Both styles incorporate a variety of materials in their designs. But modern designs prioritise a natural finish irrespective of if the actual material is real or faux. The more "natural" textures are thus used to create a more subtle and complementary look.

In contrast, contemporary designs use both natural and artificial materials for their own merits. It also often integrates industrial elements such as concrete, bricks, steel, etc. Effectively, it uses starkly different textures and finishes to add variation and visual intrigue.

3. Contemporary vs Modern Design- Colour Palette

The base of warm neutrals such as beige, tans, greys and browns is the go-to in modern design. These are accompanied by natural and earth tones accents- muted greens, turquoise, rust, etc. Contemporary designs have a more stark colour scheme with the base of black, white and grey. Black and white are often used to ground more vibrant colours such as peppy yellow or bright pink.

4. Difference Between Modern and Contemporary Interior Design- Furniture

The furniture in modern design is off the ground and is visually light. This adds to the airy vibe of the style and makes the room feel more spacious. On the other hand, modern contemporary design embraces more quirky and chunky shapes.

While many modern pieces are mainly functional, contemporary design is more flexible. Many décor pieces are used solely for their artistic value. Therefore, functionality does not always trump form and aesthetics in the case of contemporary designs.

Tips to Make Your Home Look More Modern

• Functionality is always at the forefront of this style. Your usage of the space would determine the kind of furniture you require. Keep or buy only pieces that serve a purpose.
  
  
• Earth tones are your best friend. The colour palette should feature warm neutrals and earth tones. Opt for more muted hues of primary and secondary colours for accents.
  
  
• Modern design catered to the masses. The material used for furniture and décor included fibreglass, acrylics, plywood, etc., in addition to natural materials. So choose a variety of materials for your modern home. Just remember to ensure that most finishes have the appearance of natural material.
  
  
•  Furniture with tapering and exposed legs are the hallmark of this style. Invest in pieces with this feature for a classic modern look—for example, Eames chairs, credenzas, side tables, square sofas, etc.