Modern vs. Contemporary Furniture
Modern vs. Contemporary Furniture
What is your preferred style in your home or office? When you are decorating a space, it can be quite the project to source the right furniture, art, décor, and more. One decision you will need to make regarding the type of furniture you are buying is whether you prefer modern or contemporary designs.
Even though these styles are sometimes used interchangeably, there are some distinct characteristic differences between the two. It’s important that you understand these differences so you can make the most informed design choices when purchasing furniture for your project.
Modern Furniture Defined
Furniture that falls in the “modern” category in the design industry usually originates in the early- to mid-20th century. These pieces are both functional and simple, using clean lines and basic designs. They are constructed using a variety of natural materials, such as leather, wood, and metal.
Typically, modern future is designed with neutral color palettes, using bold accents at times. They may have various geometric shapes to add to the interesting elements of the design.
Contemporary Furniture Designed
Furniture in the “contemporary” category consists of today’s current furniture styles. In fact, contemporary furniture is constantly changing in design, based on the way trends are evolving.
Contemporary furniture is adaptable and innovative. Many modern designs prioritize sustainability and comfort. This furniture is designed with curved edges and softer lines and can have a range of colors – bold hues or monochrome themes. The design is quite flexible!
This modern furniture often prioritizes eco-friendly materials and sustainability. So, buyers not only have a stylish piece of furniture for their homes, but they also feel good knowing that there was minimal impact on the environment during the manufacturing processes.
Main Differences: Modern vs. Contemporary Furniture
What are the key differences between modern and contemporary furniture designs? You’ll notice that contemporary furniture tends to have more fluid design trends that are constantly changing based on current styles. On the other hand, modern furniture is a fixed design that includes timeless appeal and simplicity.
The color schemes can be quite different as well. For example, modern furniture is based mostly on neutral colors and earthy tones. But contemporary furniture can have bold colors and a lot more freedom in the hues. Or, contemporary furniture can also come back to the basics of whites and blacks.
Also, notice the difference in the shapes and materials of the furniture. Modern furniture tends to use natural materials mostly and you will see a lot of geometric shapes in the design. Contemporary furniture is a mix of unconventional and traditional materials and often uses softer, curved shapes.
Which Style of Furniture is Right for Your Home?
There isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution when choosing furniture for your home or office. The key is to find the pieces that align with your personal preferences, using the materials, colors, and designs that look good with the other design elements in the room.
– Written by Becki Andrus
