Modern style elements
Unlike country-style interiors, where accessories and accents are ‘layered’ to produce a charming messy effect, the modern style is based on minimalism. In the absence of objects there is space, and this space itself is a design element. The 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 must be strong and united by color, texture, pattern or style. Unobstructed, uncluttered, sparse, and efficient, the clean, open look of the modern style would be cold and utilitarian without character and warmth infused with color, texture, art, and accessories.
If you wanted to create an interior in 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 divided only by modular furniture, low cabinets, glass bricks, and even movable screen walls.
o Monochromatic simplicity: the walls, which constitute the backdrop to an interior of any style, are mainly neutral in a modern environment: gray, white and shades of brown or tan predominate, while a striking color can be used on a central wall. Wall colors can be repeated on the floor with low-pile carpet, tile, concrete, or wood, or the floor can provide a great 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 in modern design, both in furniture and in simple, no-frills window treatments that allow the outside view to become part of the room. Full glass walls that open 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 solar shades are often used so that the outside view is not obstructed. If there isn’t a good view to highlight, one is often created with an indoor waterfall, modern fireplace, or oversized piece of wall art.
o The Importance of Color in Accents – Against this monochrome backdrop, accents take on a crucial role in setting the room’s style and tone. Bold bursts of red, ocher, 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 wall art decor from the 1930s. The colors that appear in an abstract painting or metal wall sculpture will they will find again in cushions, vases, table sculptures or light 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 the mood. Unobtrusive accessories like recessed lights or halogen lights on dimmer switches can create visual excitement on dramatic wall art or soften the space around a dining room. The beams of light can even be used to create art through the pattern or design that they project onto the wall.
o Furniture: Modular pieces abound, such as leather sofas and stackable chrome tables. The glass tables keep the look open and spacious. Don’t feel limited to black and white. Leather and microsuede in brown, gray, 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 HD flat screen TV to the industrial edge to sleek stainless steel kitchen appliances, function and style blend in every room. Clutter is prohibited on the countertops and only those accessories or gadgets that add to the style are on display.