Modern Vs Contemporary Furniture – The Difference

The terms “contemporary” and “modern” are very common in the world of design, decoration and the modern and contemporary furniture market. Interestingly, these words are often used interchangeably to describe a similar artistic style when, in reality, there are some important differences that define what each of the terms ultimately means. Despite having important distinguishing traits, the two terms also share some similarities that add an area of ​​gray, no pun intended, to defining each term.

It is important to note that these two styles have many subcategories and variations of the main themes they represent. Modern design has multiple variations in style and furnishings, just as contemporary design also has a number of variations. Subcategories aside, each style has general themes that are common among most variations. In terms of modern furniture and decoration, modern design generally focuses on the simplistic and minimalist use of objects and furniture. Contemporary design is more of a dynamic style that changes over time, focusing on what is currently “in the now” and offering a bit more freedom than traditional modern design.

As mentioned above, modern design focuses on being simple, minimalist, and comfortable. The defining characteristics of the style are low-key furniture, creative use of abstract patterns, sharp and defined angular frames and also visually interesting artwork. Modern design tends to favor a more natural theme; leather, glass and wood are the typical materials used to make most modern furniture. Sofas, tables, and even beds tend to be raised off the ground to create a more open environment. Continuing the natural theme, colors in modern design tend to be more neutral with occasional accents of a few spontaneously chosen colors carefully placed throughout the room. Surrounding walls and floors in a modern setting continue the natural theme by reinforcing the neutral color scheme and natural materials. The walls are usually painted in neutral colors and the floors are often made of polished wood or concrete.

Contemporary design is a bit more difficult to define. The term typically describes something that is alive or occurring at the present moment. Unlike modern furniture, contemporary furniture tends to have sleek lines, not necessarily sharp or stark, reflective surfaces, and unusual, often bright colors. The contemporary style is usually abstract and interesting to look at. Due to the less natural subject matter of contemporary art and furniture, decorators have a little more freedom to express their art through the use of a wider range of available colors. Chrome, stainless steel, and rounded corners are often considered contemporary furniture staples. Due to the dynamic nature of contemporary design, a room or home that truly qualifies as contemporary is never finished. Contemporary homes are continually decorated and improved as time goes by and new furniture or artwork is added to complement the artist’s tastes. Contemporary design is like a living project that breathes and improves over time.