Modern vs Contemporary Design Style: What's the Difference

For most people, the terms modern and contemporary design seem to mean the same thing, and a dictionary definition supports this interpretation because the words are considered synonymous.

But for home designers and interior decorating professionals, the terms modern and contemporary reference two distinct design styles.

While these two decorating styles share some common characteristics, there are also differences.

The modern style is firmly rooted in the early-mid-20th century and includes strong lines with natural colors.

Contemporary design embraces the trends of the here and now. Keep reading and discover what's the difference between these decoration styles.

What is the modern style?

The modern style is the design and decoration of the modernist movement, which began in the late 19th century.

Created by the German Bauhaus design schools and with Scandinavian design's emphasis on simplicity and function, the modern decorating style is very old-fashioned.

Generally speaking, modern decor is linked to the early and mid-20th century, from 1900 to 1950.

The modern style eventually morphed into mid-century modern (the 1950s and 1960s) and postmodernism (1970s and 1980s).

While mid-century modernity looks a lot like modern design with strategically added pops of bright color, postmodernism does not.

Postmodernism is bold, breaks all the rules of tradition, and has a certain quirkiness and irony. It's more about form than function, which is the exact opposite of the practical features found in classic modern design.

What is contemporary style?

What is known as contemporary style became popular in the 1970s, almost as the popularity of postmodernism grew. It was originally a mix of styles before it became recognizable on its own.

The contemporary design borrowed elements from modernism and postmodernism. He also brought together ideas from many other styles, such as art deco, deconstructivism, futurism, and more.

And yet the "contemporary" style is always changing. With each passing decade, the decorating trends of the day will always be considered contemporary.

It is not necessarily tied to a specific time period in the way that modern style is. Instead, it is an ever-evolving style that reflects what is happening today.

The similarities

There are similar characteristics in both styles. This is probably where much of the confusion comes from trying to tell them apart.

Both styles tend to favor simple, uncluttered spaces with smooth, clean lines and an artistic flair. This conveys a comfortable and relaxed feeling in a room that is very cozy.

Neither style prefers ornate designs or heavy elements. However, contemporary spaces can often bend this rule as trends change.

In both styles, the sofas, chairs, and ottomans have exposed legs. Each tends to gravitate toward reflective surfaces like exposed metal and glass.

You'll also find plenty of exposed wood in both styles, from structural beams to raw wood end tables with metal bases.

When to choose modern over contemporary style

Since the modern style focuses on design elements common to the 1900s and 1950s, it is best for a homeowner who appreciates the aesthetics of that era, with his preference for highly functional elements and warm, natural colors.

And it works best for anyone who likes to enhance a single design theme.

The contemporary design style is best suited for homeowners who like to keep up with current trends in decor and trim, who are willing (and on a budget) to change over time.

And it's best for those who like the sharp contrasts and curved lines often found in contemporary design.

Contemporary style is for those who consider form and adornment more important than function.

We hope you enjoy watching this video about Modern Vs. Contemporary Interior Design:

Source: Homebuyer's School
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