Unlike country-style interiors, where accessories and accents are ‘layered’ to produce a charming messy effect, modern style is all about minimalism. In the absence of objects there is space, and this space itself is a design element. Open spaces automatically draw your attention to the few pieces that are used, from a sleek streamlined chair to a bold swirl of abstract art. Therefore, the furniture, fixtures, and accessories used to define the style should be strong and united by color, texture, pattern, or style. Uncluttered, uncluttered, sparse, and efficient, the clean, open look of modern style would be cool and utilitarian without personality and warmth that is infused with color, texture, art, and accessories.
If you wanted to create an interior with a modern style, it would be necessary to include certain defining elements. These are the elements that define the modern style.
o An open floor plan: Gone are the walls that define ‘rooms’ in traditional interiors. Modern interior spaces are open and airy, often broken up only by modular furniture, low cabinets, glass brick, and even movable screen walls.
o Monochrome simplicity – the backdrop to any style interior, walls are mostly neutral in a modern setting – gray, white, and shades of brown or tan predominate, while a bold color can be used on a central wall. Wall colors can be echoed on the floor with shag carpet, tile, concrete, or wood, or the floor can offer a stark contrast: gleaming polished hardwood floors in a deep mahogany stain, for example, can offset the pale dove gray walls.
o Glass walls – Glass is essential to modern design, both in furnishings and in simple, unadorned window treatments that allow the outside view to become part of the room. Entire glass walls that open up to a view of the mountain, ocean, or city skyline are an important part of the room’s design. If sun protection is needed, minimalist sun shades are often used so that the outside view is not obstructed. If there isn’t a nice view to highlight, one is often created with an indoor waterfall, modern fireplace, or oversized wall art.
o The Importance of Color in Accents – Against this monochromatic backdrop, accents take on a crucial role in setting the style and tone of the room. Bold pops of red, ochre, cerulean blue or freshly cut green are repeated throughout the space. Style is also set by accents: An abstract painting reminiscent of Jackson Pollock will have a different impact than retro 1930s wall art decor. The colors that appear in an abstract painting or metal wall sculpture will will find again in cushions, vases, tabletop sculptures or lighting fixtures. Because glass, leather, and polished metal are so prevalent, the opposite texture will bring relief; therefore, sisal or coconut fiber area rugs, tufted knotty fabrics, and woven baskets or twig arrangements are often used in the mix.
o The importance of lighting: Personality and style are defined by lighting used to highlight art and accessories and convey mood. Understated fixtures like recessed lights or halogen lights on dimmer switches allow you to create visual excitement over dramatic wall art or soften the space around a dining room. The light beams can even be used to create art through the pattern or design they project onto the wall.
o Furniture: Modular pieces abound, such as leather sofas and stackable chrome tables. Glass tables keep the look open and airy. Don’t feel limited to black and white. Leather and microsuede in brown, grey, white are other options. Geometric fabric patterns, stripes, dots and swirls can be intermixed within the same color family to create visual excitement and continuity throughout the space.
o Sleek Modern Appliances: From the flat screen HDTV to the industrial edge of the sleek stainless steel kitchen appliances, function and style meld in every room. Clutter is prohibited on countertops and only those accessories or gadgets that contribute to the style are visible.