Contemporary vs. Modern - What's the difference?

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This is a great question! It's very common for people to confuse the two. Modern interior design refers to a specific time period, the early to mid-twentieth century. Mid-Century modern and post-modern design evolved from modern design. Styles that followed modern were renaissance, Victorian, and gothic, all extremely textured and very dramatic. Modern is neither of the two. Think of straight, clean lines, and less clutter. Contemporary, on the other hand, is a bit more difficult to define. It doesn't stick to a specific time period. Contemporary reflects present day designs; reflecting bits and pieces of many different design styles.

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Modern

The modern design color palette has an earthier hue with shades like rust, ochre, brown and mustard yellow. Recurring elements you'd see are things like leather, wood, and textured items. Modern home designers often lean toward organic elements like burled wood furniture. This can add coziness and a grounded feeling to the room.

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Contemporary

Contemporary design is constantly changing to reflect the popular styles of present day. Even though the photo above may show what's in now, it's likely to change. Colors that you can see recurring in contemporary palettes are neutrals like light grey, cream, and light tan. Elements like steel, glass, and chrome are combined with light, natural textures.

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