Interior trends: what is contemporary decor style?

"What's in a name?" or so the time old question goes. Well, quite a lot, it turns out. That's why we're going to be taking a closer look at contemporary decor style and the difference between contemporary and modern decor. Whilst conversationally, they might be used interchangeably, when it comes to interior design terminology, the two are very different. And it's not just in the name. The two styles can sometimes be confused. But can you tell the difference? 

From the history behind the styles to the key characteristics of contemporary decor style, if you want to know what's what when it comes to one of our favourite decor trends, read on.

What is contemporary decor style?

In short, contemporary decor style refers to what is happening in the decor world right now. Whilst modern decor refers to a specific school of design (more on that later). Contemporary decor is defined by clean lines, a sparring yet deliberate use of colour, pairing old and new pieces together, and layering on the texture. All done within a simple yet sophisticated framework. It's cool, sleek, yet also lots of fun. Think curved chairs, statement light fixtures and eye-catching artwork.

The history behind contemporary decor style

Confusing as it may sound, the modern decor trend has its roots firmly planted in the 19th century. Growing with the popularisation of the German Bauhaus school of design—famed for championing function over form, it favoured industrial materials like concrete, glass, and steel and a minimalist aesthetic. Whilst contemporary decor style is heavily influenced by modern decor, it is very much its own decor style. 

As the name might suggest, contemporary decor doesn't refer to a specific period. Instead, it borrows attributes from every decor style from modernist to minimalist, mid-century modern to art-deco style. In truth, it's still evolving, and is heavily influenced by what is going on right now and emerging trends. So its key characteristics can be difficult to pin down, but we're sharing some of its most recognisable ones to help you get the look at home.

Key characteristics of contemporary decor style

A neutral colour palette 

The backdrop for contemporary decor style is a warm and neutral colour palette. This provides a clean and simple canvas for the pop of colour in your artwork and furnishings. Think gentle greys, subtle beiges and greiges, warming whites and perhaps even a bit of black in the form of crittal windows and doors, or even a statement Black 01 staircase. Alongside this, you can incorporate accents of colour through fabrics and furnishings or statement artwork to really make your decor pop.

Warm wood accents 

From glossy walnut cabinets to enormous mango wood consoles, warm wood accents soften what can otherwise feel like a very glossy trend. They add some welcome warmth into a contemporary decor room. They’re gorgeous in the kitchen too, if you want to go for a natural rather than painted cabinet finish. Take a look at our guide on the best paint colours to pair with wood for some guidance on how to incorporate them into your decor scheme.

Organic silhouettes

Curved shapes and organic silhouettes are yet another clue you’re in a contemporary decor home. This can be anything from kidney-shaped coffee tables, inviting curved boucle sofas to statement art-deco inspired bubble chandeliers. It almost feels like a response to modern living. We all need a bit of a hug right now, and curved, organic-shaped silhouettes feel like they do just that. We’re seeing more and more of this trend—furniture that aims to envelop—and we foresee it continuing to grow.

Oversized or statement artwork 

Statement artwork is a key component of contemporary decor style. Just take a look at Vogue Williams’ stylish London home, filled with pieces she’s collected over the years, and you’ll get the idea. It can transform an otherwise minimalist room into a striking space. 

Choosing art for your home (especially if you’re spending serious money on it) can seem like a daunting task. Think about the space and how the art will fit in it. andIs it going to be hanging in a hallway and the first thing you see when you walk in? Or above the bed and the last thing you look at as you go to bed? You might even lean your huge canvas on the wall and not hang it - this creates a real statement. The golden rule when it comes to choosing art is to go with what you love. You’re going to be staring at it almost every day, so pick a piece that speaks to you.

Mid-century modern furnishings 

Whilst contemporary decor style borrows from lots of different schools of design, one of the most instantly recognisable is mid-century modern furnishings. Think Le Corbusier chairs, laidback leather loungers or classic Barcelona-style chairs. Take a look at our deep dive into mid-century modern decor and furniture for some inspiration and to get to know the trend.

A light-filled space

Floor to ceiling sliding doors are synonymous with the contemporary decor style. Obviously, not every room can incorporate these, but if you are going for a contemporary aesthetic, keep your windows bare. A great look in a kitchen or living room, creating contrast with industrial style black frames. You can also add light and make a room appear bigger with large, strategically placed mirrors.

Combining metal and rustic materials 

Pairing sleek steel with rattan furnishings is an integral characteristic of contemporary decor style. A great example of this is the instantly recognisable Marcel Breuer's Cesca side chair. You can also pair steel with glass, in the form of coffee tables or dining tables for an instantly sleek look or oversized leather sofas with a chunky yet sleek marble coffee table (piled high with your favourite coffee table books, naturally).

Now you know your contemporary decor style from your modern decor, why not take a look at these 6 contemporary bedroom ideas to bring a bit of that current style into a home near you.