Modern, Contemporay or Modern Contemporary?

Most people think these two styles are synonymous. Even some of your design-savvy friends! But the reality is these two styles have several distinctions. Once you understand these differences, you’ll find it much easier to conceive a plan for your own interiors and impress others. Let’s get into it!

1. Modern Design

Modern design is the style a precursor to contemporary design, it refers to the specific period from the early to mid-twentieth century. The inception of modern design happened at the peak of the modern art movement, widely informed by Scandinavian and German Bauhaus designs. It is best known this distinct style focused on simple form and function, which are valued as equals under this style. Most domineering elements are earthy palettes, natural materials like wood, leather, and stone, and streamlined silhouettes.

2. Contemporary Design

Unlike modern design, contemporary design doesn’t refer to a specific period of time. Certainly, it is constantly evolving to reflect the popular styles of present-day design. It borrows qualities from modernism, minimalism, Art Deco, and other global styles, without hyper-focusing on any one in particular, and always recognised a combination of these broad styles. Though contemporary design is, by nature, fairly debatable, there are a few qualities that best describe this style. Some of the prominent characteristics are neutral palettes, stark minimalism, clean lines, and organic silhouettes. Common materials are nickel, steel, and chrome, combined with natural textures like hemp or jute.

3. Main Differences

Modern design has a distinguishable aesthetic that emphasizes crisp lines, warm neutrals, and balance. On the other hand, contemporary is, by definition, what’s happening in design at this very moment in time. So it is more fluid and harder to pin down. Another analogy is, the modern style has more hard lines, furniture that favours function over form, and a neutral colour palette, while the contemporary style uses more curvy lines, attractive ornamentation, and stark, contrasting colours like black and white.

4. How about Modern Contemporary?

Many designers favour unconventional styles in designing today, the marriage of both modern and contemporary has come in place to achieve more creative works. Therefore, the choices of materials have expanded. The ultimate challenge is to keep a balance of overall harmony in visual presentation and functionality.