6 chic contemporary style living room ideas

Although colloquially,  the terms ‘modern’ and ‘contemporary’ can be used interchangeably, when it comes to interior design they refer to two design styles from very different periods. Whilst modern decor has its roots in the 19th century, contemporary decor refers to what is happening in the world of interiors today. It’s a warm and fresh take on the more restrained modern decor style, with some fun and colourful flourishes that create a curated space and showcase your individual style​​—a great look for the living room.

Ensure you know your modern from your contemporary design and take a read of our blog on the difference between modern and contemporary decor style. Like what you see? Get inspired by these 6 contemporary living room ideas to get the look in your home.

Contemporary living room idea: neutral colour palette with pops of colour

Whilst you can use pops of colour through choice artwork or furnishings, the backdrop for your contemporary style living room should be a warm and neutral colour palette. Not only does is create a relaxed and soothing environment—perfect for a living room—it provides a blank canvas for your artwork and furnishings. Think barely there greys, beiges and greiges with warming whites on your woodwork. You can create contrast with black accents, for example, black picture frames or a statement Black  01 staircase. You can also incorporate neutral hues through a liberal use of natural materials. Parquet flooring looks right at home in a contemporary style home whist terrazzo tiles or Murano glass will add a pop of colour.

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Contemporary living room idea: a mix of straight lines and curves

A playful mix of straight lines and curves is a distinctive feature of contemporary design today. Try juxtaposing a rectangular coffee table with an enveloping Saarinen womb chair. Or replacing a traditionally linear sofa with a curved bouclé one. And it doesn’t just stop at the furnishings. Orb lighting is a big favourite right now as are Ultrafragola (wavy border) mirrors and bobbin chairs. Not only does this contrast of straight lines and curves look gorgeous, but there’s an argument that gentle, curved furnishings create a more inclusive and inviting space. Again, ideal for your living room.

Contemporary living room idea: statement artwork

A key component of the contemporary decor trend is statement artwork. This is where you can get a little experimental with your colour palette. Go with your gut. “It’s about finding those up and coming artists that you love and buying art that you look at and smile,” says Vogue Williams, when she showed us around her art-filled London home. ​​Whether you go for a curated gallery wall or use one piece to inform your decor, contemporary decor is all about statement artwork.

Contemporary living room idea: signs of new designs

Contemporary style is all about what’s going on in the decor world right now so it only makes sense that within your decor choices there would be signs of new designs. From an eye-catching Camaleonda sofa to multi-functional furnishings (the coffee table that doubles up as storage) it’s difficult to keep up with the ways our interiors and furnishings are changing. Contemporary decor is also adopting more eco-friendly decor solutions, like rugs made out of recycled bottles—a great option in your contemporary decor living room.

Contemporary living room idea: statement light fitting

Your contemporary decor living room is a place where your light fittings can shine. What about an orb chandelier or an art deco coloured glass chandelier? These seemingly grand light fittings make a serious decor statement without crowding or cluttering the room. If you really want to make them pop, why not think about painting your ceiling, for an unexpected design twist.

Contemporary living room idea: curated choice of accessories

You want your contemporary decor living room to look lived in without it looking cluttered. You can achieve this with a curated collection of accessories. Be discerning about your ornamental pieces and remember less is still more with contemporary decor. Infuse the room with your personality by adding a few quirky details like a statement vase or pot plants (take a look at our guide on choosing the best indoor plants based on your decor style). Alternatively, turn up the colour volume with a couple of clashing print cushions on a muted sofa. 

Like the sound of these contemporary living room ideas? Take a read all about contemporary decor style, its history and more of its defining characteristics.