Defining contemporary interior design is not that easy: the possibilities are endless these days and many different styles are considered popular and trendy. So what does it mean to decorate in a modern way?
Modern decorating: versatile and expressive
The most important thing to note right at the start: There is no such thing as just one modern interior design style. Rather, the term modern decorating encompasses two ways of thinking.
On the one hand, many people understand it to mean a very clean, rather cool interior with shiny furniture made of chrome, steel, leather and glass. The predominant colors are black, gray and white, but beige and anthracite are also used. Otherwise, the design is rather simple, the shapes clear and straightforward. Splashes of color, decorations, flourishes and excessive decorative elements are rather out of place here.
The other perspective is strongly oriented towards current trends and also follows other styles that are currently popular. But don't worry: no one who wants to decorate in a modern way has to renovate every year! Trends in home furnishings are not as fast-moving as those in the clothing industry. Read on to find out which interior design styles have been extremely popular in recent years and will continue to be so in the years to come!
Vintage
Yes, you read that correctly: the vintage style is modern! In fact, it is currently more popular than ever before. In contrast to retro furnishings, vintage furniture is not made to look old, but is genuine originals. That is what makes it so charming. It doesn't matter whether you can use your own heirlooms, browse at the flea market or buy high-quality furniture in special furniture stores and online stores.
Shabby-Chic
The shabby chic style is currently on everyone's lips! Shabby literally means worn or shabby . But that sounds far too negative. Instead, you consciously choose furniture with small scratches that show character and don't just look clean. But what distinguishes shabby chic from the vintage style? It's simple: the pretty belongings are painted light and, with the almost antique-looking carvings on the old furniture, create a wonderfully feminine atmosphere.
Second-hand
The idea of sustainability is slowly but surely making its way into furnishing and renovation. Nowadays, you can buy lots of great furniture second-hand. This not only saves you resources, but also money!
purism
The classic of modern decorating: purism and minimalism! The two terms are often used synonymously, but this is not entirely correct. Rather, minimalism describes the lifestyle itself, limiting oneself to the essentials and getting rid of unnecessary ballast. However, purism is the interior design concept that fits best with this! Here, only the essentials are concentrated, both in terms of the furniture and the decorative elements. The colors are relatively simple and the shapes as clear as possible. The style scores above all with very functional furniture.
How do I find out which style suits me?
The big picture
First, you need to be aware that you are furnishing your home for yourself and/or your family. You need to like the furniture, the decorative elements and the floor and wall design. Not your friends, neighbors or even the relatives who live with you! Nor does your home need to be perfectly styled after the renovation. Make the designs and decorative items you dream of a reality. This is the only way you can be sure that everything will fit in the end.
So find out right from the start what you are hoping for. How much storage space do you need? Should it be cozy or minimalist? How much light do you need and do you want a classic room layout or something more spontaneous? What hobby do you need space for? Get inspiration from friends, in Lifestyle & More magazine, in furniture stores, from magazines and in the world of the Internet. But make sure that when decorating in a modern way you are not copying someone else's apartment, but rather designing your own personal, perfect mix.
Go into detail
Once you have found out what you need and – more importantly – what you don’t need, it’s time to get down to business: Do you like it colorful or monochrome? Do you like unusual patterns or would you prefer something a little more calm? Include your roommates in this too!
The soul of your home
When decorating in a modern way, don't forget the personal items that really make your home unique! It doesn't matter whether you have a pretty but worn heirloom that is very dear to you or a great souvenir from your favorite vacation: it's the little things that make a room your home. Photos are also a must!
Tips and tricks for a modern interior according to your taste
Finally, we would like to give you four important pieces of advice:
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The overall concept must be right
There is no one way to decorate in a modern way. A successful result uses several styles and depends above all on the taste of the person decorating. Listen to your gut feeling! Furniture that you like but does not fit the style of living you are aiming for will ensure that your apartment looks individually and modernly decorated. -
Love is in the details
If you're not exactly yearning for minimalism, you should think about decorative items once the basic framework of the new furnishings is in place. Large contemporary posters or paintings are great and do a lot for the room. But plants, floor vases or textiles such as curtains, cushions and carpets also help to decorate your home in a cozy and modern way. -
Bring light into the darkness
Many people underestimate the effect of light! Very dark apartments appear small and uncomfortable. With a large ceiling floodlight and many small light sources distributed throughout the room, you can create a pleasant atmosphere in no time. LED background lighting and candles are also worthwhile. -
Modern is always original
There is no one contemporary interior design style. Quite the opposite! Regardless of whether you want a mix of styles or a common theme in the design: anything is allowed when it comes to modern decorating, as long as you like it. Be brave and try unusual combinations!
