Contemporary Design Style Characteristics
As if it was to hard enough to tell one design style from another. When it comes to identifying the contemporary design style, it can be challenging. Particularly because this design style is elusive in more than one way. In this article, we will take a look at the contemporary design style and see why it is so hard to get a grasp on. We will also discuss some of the things that distinguish this style from others like it.
Elements of Contemporary Design
The elements of contemporary design are really what make it into a "tricky" design style to recognize. How so? The design elements are borrowed from
other popular design styles. Because of this, contemporary designs can resemble other styles in subtle ways. The styling from which contemporary elements are derived are the ones developed in the later part of the 20th century.
Contemporary Design Colors
The color palette can also resemble other design styles. Contemporary design makes use of colors in the brown, taupe, cream, and white groups. However, that does not mean that contemporary design is made up of only neutral colors. You will find at times that spots of bold color will be present in specific locations in the design. Though not required, bold colors can be incorporated in certain areas. Some of these areas include:
- Large Piece of Art Work
- Visually Noticeable Area Rug
- A Single Wall
This use of color in the design is not unique to contemporary design styling, but when it is used in conjunction with the other elements mentioned, it constitutes the contemporary design.
Dekton & Mastidek have multiple colors that would qualify as contemporary design colors.
Contemporary Design Furnishings
The furniture used in a contemporary design can resemble that of other styles. Contemporary furnishings feature smooth lines and surfaces and do not make use ornamentation; whether it be carving or decorative adornment. The material used for the furniture are primarily light colored wood with the least amount of grain. Glass and metal are also materials that can be utilized in contemporary designs.
When it comes to the furnishings used, the form and the shape of the furniture are the most important elements. Open spaces and clean lines work with the use of the furnishings to produce that contemporary look and feel.
Fabric Usage In Contemporary Design
Contemporary design makes good use of natural fabrics like wool and silk. These are no the only fabrics that can be used, other types such as linen and cotton also make good fabrics for a contemporary style design. How are fabrics incorporated into a design? This can be done using pillows, area rugs, and throws. Yes, fabric can play a key role in the contemporary designed kitchen.
Contemporary Lighting
Straight lines on floor lamps and table lamps are the mark of a contemporary design. Additionally, Contemporary design makes use of lighting to draw attention to other key elements in the design like a strategic piece of artwork or other accessories used in the design.
Having plenty of light throughout the area is also important. Natural light can contribute to this aspect of the design so be sure to let in a lot of light whenever and wherever possible. Light can be used for the following:
- Ambient Lighting
- Task Oriented Lighting
- Accent Lighting
Contemporary Design is Trendy
In addition to making use of specific design elements, contemporary design has a "trendy" flavor without going overboard on the ornamentation. So, following certain current trends while staying within the bounds of the design style, you can achieve a great contemporary design.
In the end, contemporary design is a style that makes use of many design elements featured in other styles but in a way that reflects the current trend. Additionally, it does this while staying within certain specific guidelines that mark it as being tied to the styles defined by the later part of the 20th century.
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