You see a cocktail table and fall in love. You wonder if it would work in your home. You try to describe your home to the salesperson. He/she asks “Is your style modern or contemporary?” Your mind scrambles. Am I modern or contemporary? How do I know? How do I define my style?
This scenario probably plays out in your head every time you head out furniture shopping or when you are browsing through magazines. When shown a photo, chances are you know if you like the design aesthetic right away. But if you are asked to describe it, you are stumped. I’m not a designer, you think…how would a designer describe my style?
Relax, design is very hard to define, especially in the context of your personal style. The beauty of style is just that, it’s all yours to define. That being said, there are some basic design principles to help differentiate the elements of each style.
Let’s start with two that are often used interchangeably but, I believe, are in fact very different: modern & contemporary.
Contemporary design gained popularity in the 80’s and is usually characterized by unusual color palettes, graphic patterns, slick surfaces, asymmetrical designs and rounded forms. Lots of stainless steel, lucite and polished marble details abound in this style. You also will be hard-pressed to find a straight line with a multitude of curves and irregular shapes dominating the scene.
Modern design elements, on the other hand, have been around since the mid-century and go in and out of fashion as design trends evolve. Modern fundamentals are often represented by clean lines, grounded color palettes, warm wood tones, symmetry and balance in the space. Striped area rugs, linear patterns and natural elements contribute to an overall uncluttered aesthetic.
Modern design has most recently become incorporated into the mainstream by way of the hospitality industry. Think crisp, clean “hotel” bedding and spa-like suites that leave you craving the same style in your own home. Who doesn’t want to feel like they are on vacation 24/7?
As I mentioned before, the great thing about your style is that it is all yours to define. You can pull elements from both contemporary & modern design and have a cohesive home.
But we will leave that for a future discussion. Right now, I’m heading off to my “hotel” bed!
Previously written by Kimberly for St. Louis AT HOME’s website. Read more of Kimberly’s work and view her portfolio at www.kimberlyreuther.com.
