"Create modern simplicity with a contemporary interior design style."

Clean-lined is often how contemporary interior design is described, and for good reason. This modern approach focuses first and foremost on function and avoids the excessive ornamentation evident in many other styles.

Some people shy away from the contemporary design approach because they believe it to be too harsh or cold. This doesn’t have to be the case. In fact, I think that when contemporary interior design is well planned it can promote a sense of serenity and non-fussy simplicity.

Black, whites and other neutral tones tend to dominate the contemporary style scene, but you can leverage well-planned, accent features and accessories to provide dramatic punches of color. Large blocks of color placed against a neutral background can firmly establish a contemporary feel as evidenced in the bedroom image seen here.

Sleek lines are very important in this style. Choose clean-lined, modern furnishings and accessories. Avoid furniture with curved legs, for example, which suggests a more traditional style.

Windows in a contemporary interior setting often work well unadorned or at least edited in style. This approach emphasizes the architectural element, drawing attention to the shape and line of the window itself. If privacy is an issue for you, a good option might be natural, roll up blinds (like bamboo) mounted inside the window frame. These filter light and also introduce an element of texture. Simple roman shades could also be a privacy option.

Texture is a very important element in contemporary interior design style. Without texture your space might end up looking flat and a bit boring. Texture provides the perfect complement to the sleek, smooth surfaces of wood, metal and glass that tend to dominate this setting. A modern vase filled with coarse twigs, for example, can provide visual relief to the smooth surfaces around it. Additionally, a natural fiber, jute area rug with woven blocks of color can add a textural element to a smooth floor.

The appropriate combination of various design elements can establish a very ordered, yet interesting and refreshing environment - one that marks its place in a modern world.

Contemporary Style Tips

• Use natural, textural fabrics (jute, linen, etc.). These work great in a contemporary setting.

• Be bold (but not indiscriminate) when using color. Plan its impact.

• Incorporate furnishings with geometric shape.

• Be conservative with graphical pattern. It works great, but don’t over do it.

• A contemporary interior works best with complementary architecture. This would be a great style for an urban or industrial loft, but might seem out of place in a Victorian mansion, for example. Think about context.

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