Modern Furniture Design for a Contemporary Interior (66 Pictures)

Modern furniture design is amazing. Classic is good too in the proper decor. But contemporary furniture looks dashing.

A modern interior works for many people. Many think contemporary home décor is cold, minimalist, and impersonal, but in fact contemporary interior design are welcoming and comfortable while avoiding clutter.

It is a very versatile style, usable not only in living rooms, but also kitchens, offices, lofts, stores, and even bathrooms. The goal of contemporary décor is not truly minimalism, but rather to create clean, quiet, and comfortable retreat.

A contemporary house interior is created by following some simple rules. You are looking for to base the design around these design basics: simplicity, subtle sophistication, texture, and clean lines.

Image source: Forsite Studio

Modern decorating ideas are not so much about showcasing things as they are about showcasing spaces. Focus on color, shape, and space to make the space feel sleek and fresh.

Modern furniture design is all about minimalism. Just look at the furniture websites nowadays. The types of furniture you should choose should have smooth textures and lines. Avoid anything fussy. You want sleek and simple shapes.

Avoid embellishments and ornate carvings. Modern styles of furniture can be made of a number of materials, including light colored wood like birch or maple, metal like nickel and stainless steel, or glass.

Simply Amish of Indianapolis is excellent for unique hardwood furniture in the market. So if you are looking to add some wood furniture to your home? This is precisely where you want to be.

Image source: Amitzi Architects

Keep in mind that modern designs are not eclectic. You want all your furniture to blend together. No single piece steals the spotlight. The styling should be both practical and stylish in keeping with modern minimalism.

Don’t crowd the room with modern furniture pieces you don’t need or won’t use. You need to make sure everything functional and updated while avoiding any sense of coldness or sterility.

Image source: Koch Architects, Inc. Joanne Koch

One of the big rules of interior design is the ‘Rule of Three’. This rule came into being because an odd number of items tend to look more natural than even-numbered groups, which look eerily forced.

Too much symmetry creates a sterile atmosphere. This doesn’t mean symmetry isn’t vital to a good interior design, however! Symmetry and asymmetry need to be balanced, and the Rule of Three can be a big help with this.

Image source: Jill Howard Design Studio

However, don’t feel entirely bound up with the ‘Rule of Three’ in your modern room. It’s a useful guideline, and disregarding it on occasion doesn’t mean your room will be a sterile and lifeless space. Here are some tips and tricks to help you to incorporate modern furniture into your room design.

Design Trends in Modern Furniture

To stay in the most recent modern design fashion, here are the most recent design trends among modern furnishing:

• Multifunctional, versatile design and forms that works for many home décor styles and ideas. These designs are break from many old and tried rules, focusing on creative new home decorating concepts to create multifunctional living spaces for the enjoyment of new experiences.
• Emphasis on new technology that creates eco-friendly products. Recycled materials have become increasingly important to many designers and consumers. Handmade furniture lends a homey rustic touch to even modern interiors.
• Exotic designs from all throughout the world, especially Asia and Africa. These unique pieces lend a unique, warm accent to modern interiors. Elegantly simplistic Scandinavian designs have come to define contemporary furniture design, as well.
• Art Deco and Art Noveau styles. These styles bring a lot of new beautiful furniture options with them. A lot of modern furniture design have found a unique inspiration in these vintage styles that allow for more diversity in a modern interior design.
• Furniture materials that allow for experimentation and new, dazzling home furnishings. A lot of modern furniture designers incorporate a lot of contemporary materials and green technology into their designs. These eco-friendly materials make for some of the most popular furniture pieces.
• Practical use of concrete, new plastics, metal alloys, and fiber. These fresh materials are often incorporated into traditional furniture designs with wood, natural stone, traditional metals, and typical plastic. These new pieces are well crafted and very modern.
• New, bright, and flavorful colors, shapes, and textures. These colors are incorporated with eco-friendly products. This creates a fresh and beautiful look for a modern home, staying far from a sterile feel.
• Soft curvy and straight lines. A pleasant combination of these lines keep a space interesting. The variety of material combinations, as well as wood and metal décor, come together with these lines for a beautiful effect.
• Fabrics made with natural fibers. These kinds of fabrics are used for both upholstery and decoration. You can easily find, linen, cotton, wool, silk, quality leather, and all sorts of blends for modern furniture. These fabrics can be found in all sorts of colors, from neutral colors or bright hues. Combine them with durable, man-made fabrics for the best effect.
• Space-saving modern furniture that blends well with simple shapes and straight lines. These create versatile furniture pieces. These pieces are great for small space while still work in larger living spaces.
• Lightweight furniture made from reclaimed materials like metal, wood, and glass. This is one of the more practical trends in modern design. These pieces are easily moved while being sturdy enough to last. They negate any sterile atmosphere, as well.

Image source: Seattle Staged to Sell and Design LLC

More Tips and Tricks

Now that you know the trends found in modern furniture, you might be wondering how to select the specific pieces for your modern interior design.

Three Colors per Room

The ‘Rule of Three’ works very well for colors as well. The standard equation most homeowners run with is 60%, 30%, 10%. The 60% is the main room color, 30% is the secondary color, and 10% is the accent color.

This is a very good ratio to use for all the interior and exterior colors in your home. Your living room will look pleasant, clean, and modern in 60% neutral beige, 30% found in a bold navy blue accent wall, and 10% visible in coral-colored throw cushions.

You may not opt for such a bold color combination, but this ratio can still work. Just pick out three shades of the same color for a calmer, neutral room. This ‘Rule of Three’ can pretty much guarantee that a space will look welcoming and well-designed, with no jarring colors to be found.

Image source: Van Sickle Design Consultants Inc

Three Textures per Room

As with the colors, try to have three textures in your room .Take a close look at some of the all-white room designs you can find in magazines and on the web. These rooms are not really all white, despite the fact they initially look that way.

If you look closer at these all-white rooms, you will find many shades of white, like beige, brown, and cream. You will also find many different textures, like rattan, linen, wood, and nubby cotton.

A well-designed room will have three colors. Wooden accent items can lend a rough texture, while nubby linen upholstery on the stairs and a rusty steel shade on a pendant lamp bring in two more. This creates visual interest and a warm atmosphere.

Image source: Chris Cobb Architecture

If you opt to get your textures in by using three separate fabrics, you will find some different challenges. This can be quite tricky to pull off. You could just pick out one kind of fabrics for curtains, pillows, and throws, but this runs the risk of being both boring and overpowering. Pick out fabrics that play up the textures, patterns, and colors of the others.

The sewing magazine Threads is a good resource for choosing color combinations for your interior design. As the magazine suggests, you should lay out your fabric options side-by-side and pick ones based on pattern, color, and texture.

A good no-fail option is floral, damask, and plaid in green and red. If you’re not sure about your choice, ask a designer for help. They will offer a number of fabric combinations for any room.

Image source: ISLABAU constructora

Arrange Furniture with The ‘Rule of Three’

Arranging furniture can be one of the more intimidating aspects of interior design. It often seems like there are just too many rules for furniture placement.

It can be tempting to just throw these out and go your own way, but these tried-and-true guidelines have stuck around for a reason. The ‘Rule of Three’ is often used for furniture because it works so well at creating a space that functions and flows naturally.

Image source: Elad Gonen

Pair a large sofa with two large club chairs. Place two dainty loveseats with a delicate chair. Once you step back, you can see how these uses of the ‘Rule of Three’ create cohesive, sensible groupings. These groupings of furnishings should keep a similar size and shape between all the pieces.

This maintains an integrated look. Adjust visual height and scale with objects of assorted size, but keep your furniture similar in size within the group.

Image source: Neuhaus Design Architecture, P.C.

Draw Inspiration from Nature

Look to nature for design ideas. Look at shadows, plants, animals, and water for inspiration for general forms and shapes to start from. You can work out the details from there.

Don’t look for exact matches, as you’re not likely to find them, but keep an eye out for abstract impressions of your inspirations. Once you begin looking, you’ll be surprised how often you’ll find the perfect shapes.

Draw Inspiration from Humanity

You probably don’t give much attention to the shapes, forms, textures, and patterns that you see on a daily basis. Pay attention to what you see at the grocery store, when driving down the road, or just going about your everyday life. Start thinking of what would look good as a part of your interior design.

You might be surprised by what strikes your fancy. Once you find something, start running with it, no matter how silly or weird it seems.

Image source: HUSH

Analyze What You Take for Granted About Your Furniture

Avoid getting tunnel vision about your furniture. Create a list of things you take for granted about the style of furniture you want. Using this list, go through it and consider the way the furniture would look if you didn’t follow one or more of your points.

For instance, what do you take for granted about a cabinet on a stand?

• Cabinet on top of stand
• Door(s) at the front
• Cabinet is square or rectangular in shape
• Two sides, one front and one back
• Four legs, 6-drawers and/or shelves inside
• Doors hinged to gables
• Simple or subtle in design

After considering this list, try swapping out the idea ‘shape’ for some interesting design twists.

Image source: Ondine Karady Design

Make Sure You Have Time To Think

Give yourself time to consider your design options. Take a walk or a drive and relax. Don’t force yourself to come up with a solution, as this will often create a mental block. Walks are some of the best ways to generate ideas. It also offers you a great way to find natural inspiration for your room design.

You can also do something else until the right idea strikes you. If you are making your furniture, working on another piece, possibly for a different space, can help steer you in the right direction without stressing you out of your creativity.

Use Different Material

Look into using more diverse and unusual materials. Think about using Rock, copper, hand-made Japanese paper, tile, stainless steel, and glass.

You will have to think about the color, sheen, texture, pattern, functionality, and durability you want and need before you settle on a material, as every material brings a different element. Custom furniture is a great option, if you can’t find it or make it yourself.

Image source: Six Degrees Architects

Use Models to Work Through Ideas

Use either physical or digital models to help you sort out your furniture design and layout. You can use 2x4s, Masonite, Styrofoam, and construction paper for a physical model, while there are a lot of useful programs available to make a digital model.

Use different spray paints on the physical models to get a feel for the colors for a more realistic idea of what the piece will look like. You can do both scale and full-sized models.

Don’t be Afraid of Asymmetry

Asymmetry can add intrigue to stark modern furniture. You can easily go too far, however, and remember to balance your use of asymmetry wisely. You don’t want to make the entire space into an eyesore.

Rules for Arranging Furniture the Right Way

Once you choose the right furniture, now you have to arrange it. As mentioned above, it can be very hard to do this. Use this rules to help you arrange furniture in a practical and aesthetically pleasing way.

• Function. Think about how you use the room, how often it will be used, and how many people will use it. This will decide a lot of things about what type of furniture you will be using, from what it is made from to what kind to get, as well as how you will arrange it.
• Focal Point. Figure out your space’s focal point. This can be a television, a view out a window, a fireplace, or anything interesting. Orient your furniture accordingly. For a room oriented around the television, the perfect distance between the television set and the seating is three times the size of the screen as measured diagonally. If you have a 40 inch set, your seating should be 120 inches away.
• Priority. Place your largest pieces first, oriented around your focal point. Keep chairs no more than eight feet apart to facilitate conversation. If you have a smaller room, avoid pushing furniture against the walls.
• Symmetry. Symmetrical furniture arrangement work best in more formal rooms. A more asymmetric arrangement gives a more casual feel.
• Traffic. Consider traffic when arranging your furniture. Leave a path between doorways and make sure they are not blocked if you can help it. Allow 30 to 48 inches for major traffic routes, and allow a minimum of 34 inches for minor traffic routes. Direct traffic around seating groups instead of through them.
• Variety. Vary the size of the furniture around the room. You want it arranged so that your eyes move up and down as you look across the space. Balance taller items by placing pieces of similar height across from it. Try to avoid putting two tall pieces neat to one another. If you need to, use art for balance.
• Contrast. Contrast straight and curved lines. If you have modern linear furniture, use a round table. For curvier furniture, use a more angular table or ottoman. Combine solids and voids, as well, pairing leggy chairs with boxy tables and vice versa.
• Ease of Use. Make sure there is a table within easy reach of all seating. Make sure all the tables are scaled right to be used from that seat. Place a reading chair next to every lamp. Coffee tables need to be located 14 to 18 inches away from a sofa to allow for enough legroom.
• Circulation. For dining room, allow 48 inches between the edges of the table and the nearest wall or furniture. If no one is going to pass behind the chairs on one side of the table, you can instead allow for only 36 inches. For a bedroom, you should allow at least 24 inches between the side of the bed and a wall, with 36 inches between the bed and a swinging door.
• Planning. Test the design on paper before you start moving any furniture. Measure the room carefully. Make special note of the windows, doors, heat registers, and electrical outlets. Draw up a floor plan on graph paper using cutouts, or use a free online room planner to very easily draw up a space and test out various ideas with only a few clicks.

Image source: Upside Development

Things to Keep in Mind

• Make a bold statement with your modern furniture and accessories in your contemporary interior design. Utilize a basic background and buy vibrantly colored furniture pieces that will stand out.
• Remember, for modern styling, less is more. Don’t use ruffles, fringe, excessive carved details, or floral prints. Avoid anything cute and small. You want basic, bold, bare, and structural.
• Modern floor design is bare and smooth. Common materials are tile, vinyl, and wood. If you need to sue carpet to control sound or keep the room warm, pick commercial grade carpet. Ass in colors and textures with geometric-patterned or plain area rugs.
• Use metal, stone, and glass (either or opaque or clear) look very good in modern spaces. For a softer and warmer space, bring in some heavily textured fabrics for the pillows, rugs, and window treatments. Add some big, bold stripes in the form of rugs or throws.
• Light fixtures are very important for contemporary style. Every light fixture should be a work of art unto itself. Look for lighting fixtures with clean liens and sculptural details. Color and metallic details look great on light fixtures, as well. Spotlights or can lights can be directed at posters, paintings, or prints you want to highlight and draw the eye towards. Track and recessed lighting helps to wash whole walls in light. If you are doing some serious home renovations, consider installing either indirect light or cove lighting.
• Place modern sculptures and arts on stands can be placed at the perfect level for observation using decorative columns or pedestals. Make sure these pieces are well-lit.
• Avoid cluttering the room with too many pieces. Open space is one of the hallmarks of modern design.
• If you’re adding plants and flowers, they should be large and dramatic in simple containers. Larger blooms with more interesting leaves are a much better fit than more delicate arrangements. If you can, place upward facing lights around a large floor plant.
• Frames can be either high-gloss or matte black, metal finishes, or natural wood. If you are going to place several pictures or artworks together, hang them close to make them feel like one large art installation.

Image source: Pride Road Manchester

Modern furniture design inspiration

You must have gotten tired of that old furniture you’re having or you have something new and exquisite and you’d like to see what else is on the market, one of these is the answer to the question ‘Why are you here?’.

This is the first of many articles of its kind on the site, as we all try to improve our working space or home and some information about interior design ideas is always welcome.

You must admit that the people who designed these interesting things are quite talented. For now, I’m delivering you solutions for tables, chairs and beds/sofas.

Tables

Chairs

Beds and sofas

FAQ on modern furniture design

What’s the appeal of modern furniture design?

Well, you see, modern furniture design is all about clean lines, minimalism, and functionality. People love it because it creates a sense of spaciousness and simplicity, while still being super stylish. Plus, it’s versatile, so you can mix and match it with other design styles, which is pretty cool. It’s like having the best of both worlds – form and function, all wrapped up in one gorgeous package.

How do I recognize modern furniture?

Ah, great question! Modern furniture typically has sleek lines, geometric shapes, and a lack of ornate detailing. The materials often used are metal, glass, or plastic, and the colors tend to be neutral or monochromatic. You might notice some pops of color here and there, but overall, modern furniture is all about simplicity and understated elegance. So, if you see a piece that checks those boxes, chances are it’s modern!

What materials are commonly used in modern furniture?

Oh, I love talking about this! Modern furniture usually uses a mix of materials, like metal, glass, wood, and plastic. Metals like stainless steel or aluminum are popular for their durability and sleek look. Glass is used for tabletops and other surfaces, while wood adds a natural, warm touch. Plastic is also used for its affordability and versatility. Combining these materials in innovative ways is what makes modern design so exciting!

How do I choose the right modern furniture for my space?

Ah, the million-dollar question! First, consider your space and what you want to achieve. Look for pieces that are both functional and stylish, and don’t forget about scale and proportion. Think about colors and materials that complement your existing décor. And, of course, set a budget! That’s super important. You don’t have to break the bank to have a fabulous modern space – there are options for every price range.

Is modern furniture comfortable?

You betcha! Modern furniture has come a long way, and designers are constantly finding ways to make it more comfortable without sacrificing style. Many modern pieces feature ergonomic designs and plush cushions for maximum comfort. So go ahead, kick back and relax in your modern chair – it’s designed to be cozy and chic at the same time!

How do I maintain and care for my modern furniture?

Maintenance is key, my friend! For starters, always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions. Generally, though, wipe down metal and plastic surfaces with a damp cloth and mild detergent. For glass, use a glass cleaner or vinegar-water solution. For wood, a soft cloth and wood cleaner should do the trick. Remember to avoid harsh chemicals, and always test cleaning products in an inconspicuous spot before using them on your precious modern furniture.

Can I mix modern furniture with other design styles?

Absolutely! Mixing modern furniture with other styles can create a unique and personalized look. For example, you can pair a sleek modern sofa bed with a vintage coffee table or add an industrial touch with some metal accents. The key is finding a balance and making sure the different elements work together harmoniously. So go ahead, get creative, and make your space a reflection of your personality!

Is modern furniture eco-friendly?

It can be, for sure! Many modern furniture designers are committed to sustainability and using eco-friendly materials. Look for pieces made from reclaimed or responsibly-sourced wood, recycled metals, or low-VOC finishes. Additionally, modern furniture is often designed to be durable and long-lasting, which means less waste in the long run. So yeah, you can totally go green while still enjoying your sleek, modern aesthetic!

How can I add a pop of color to my modern space?

Oh, I love this one! Adding a pop of color to your modern space is a fantastic way to make it more vibrant and inviting. You can do this through accent pieces like throw pillows, rugs, or artwork. Another option is to choose one piece of furniture, like an armchair or a side table, in a bold, eye-catching color. Just remember, moderation is key – you don’t want to overwhelm your space with too many colors or patterns.

Ending thoughts on this modern furniture design examples

In conclusion, it’s hard to underestimate the importance of modern furniture design in our lives.

You know, I can’t help but notice how this design trend has transformed our living spaces.

Let me tell you why:

• First, modern furniture design embraces minimalism, giving our homes a clean and uncluttered look. No more unnecessary knick-knacks, just the essentials.
• Second, this design trend is all about functionality. The furniture not only looks great but also serves a practical purpose.
• Lastly, the sustainability aspect can’t be overlooked. Modern furniture design has paved the way for environmentally conscious materials and manufacturing processes.

In a world where trends come and go, it’s easy to get lost in the shuffle. But modern furniture design has shown that it’s here to stay. So, if you’re thinking of giving your home a facelift, why not consider incorporating this style?

Not only will your living space look amazing, but you’ll also be doing your part for the environment. Trust me, it’s a win-win situation!

If you liked this article about modern furniture design, check out these as well:

• Superb bathroom interior design ideas to follow – 85 pictures
• Innovative Furniture Design: Coffee Tables, Chairs, Sofas, and Beds

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Bogdan Sandu

Bogdan Sandu, a seasoned designer with 15 years of diverse experience, has been designing websites since 2008.

Renowned for his expertise in logo design and visual branding, Bogdan has developed a multitude of logos for various clients.

His skills extend to creating posters, vector illustrations, business cards, and brochures. Additionally, Bogdan's UI kits were featured on marketplaces like Visual Hierarchy and UI8.

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