What's The Difference Between Modern and Contemporary?

What's The Difference Between Modern and Contemporary?

Contrary to popular belief, the terms 'Modern' and 'Contemporary' in interior design do not refer to the same style. Modern design refers to interior design from a particular period of time, it is a design style that was created in the middle of the 20th century. It doesn't change, it is a defined style, and will remain such for ever. Contemporary design is constantly changing, it is of the moment. Contemporary design is usually made up of a combination of other styles.

Modern Interior Design

The term "Modern" in interior design really refers to "Mid Century Modern" which was coined to describe the style of the 1920's to 1970's. You can recognize it by the use of clean lines and unadorned spaces. Natural materials such as leather and linen or teak and other woods was common. Also very popular in modern furniture, was plywood and molded plastic as well as polished metal.

Typically furniture was raised off the floor leaving an open, airy feel. Walls are often white adding to the expansive feeling. Modern interiors generally have bare wood floors and if area rugs are used, they are typically wool, and neutral in colour. Hints of colour were used in moderation. Mid-century modern is also referred to as "Retro".

Joanne Vanderhoef
Marketing and Media Specialist
Distinctively Home Interiors
http://www.distinctivelyhome.com