Embracing Contemporary Home Interior Design

Contemporary interior design is one of the most popular styles for modern living, seamlessly blending form, function, and current aesthetics. It is not just about showcasing on-trend pieces or embracing the latest iteration of minimalism - it is about styling a space that incorporates current design trends and your personal taste.

Some of the most exciting aspects of contemporary-style interiors are their timeless appeal, functionality, and spaciousness. Contemporary spaces are constantly evolving and can adapt to new trends without becoming dated. Since they emphasise practicality, comfort, and open-plan living, they are easy to update when you want to incorporate a new trend into your home.

Australia is also an exciting place for progressive design, given its multicultural heritage, openness to global influences, and adaptability.

If you are intrigued by the adaptability and sophistication of contemporary design, this guide will walk you through how to embrace the style in your home.

What is contemporary interior design?

Contemporary interior design emulates what is popular right now. It celebrates the design philosophies, principles, and trends that are in vogue.

It is often confused with modern design, which refers to a specific time period that started in the mid-60s. However, contemporary is an ever-evolving and dynamic style that constantly updates itself to represent the latest design innovations and what is in demand.

This look leans into minimalism without being stark. It also priortises comfort, livability, personal taste, and understated elegance. Some of the key elements you could find in a contemporary style home today include:

Simplicity and clean lines

Contemporary furniture and decor tend to have smooth, uncluttered shapes.

Fluid shapes

Designers often experiment with unconventional shapes and asymmetry to add visual interest.

Neutral colour palettes with bold accents

Neutral tones are punctuated with bold, accent colours in new-age homes. While the base colours draw inspiration from nature and create harmony, bright colours are often incorporated as a take on the latest trends.

Natural materials

Wood, metal, glass, and stone are often used, but they may be refined or polished to give a sleek appearance. Contemporary design lovers also experiment, mixing materials and playing with recycled pieces and composites.

Open spaces

Contemporary homes embrace spaciousness and open-plan layouts, with a focus on ease and flow between rooms.

Functional elegance

Up-to-date pieces are designed for aesthetic appeal and practicality.

Global influence

Since the world is more connected than ever before, you will often find influences from different cultures blended in a contemporary interior.

What are some examples of contemporary furniture?

When choosing furniture for a contemporary interior, look for pieces with clean lines and smooth surfaces. Some common contemporary furniture pieces include:

Sofas and sectionals

Present-day sofas tend to have low profiles, straight edges, and neutral upholstery. They are often simple styles with a luxurious feel. High-quality materials, such as top-grain leather, are often chosen to withstand the demands of modern living.

Coffee tables

It’s easy to add a new coffee table to your living space to give it a modern twist. Current styles often feature glass tops with metal legs, looking unembellished and sleek.

Chairs

Trending chairs usually feature slim frames with ergonomic appeal, sometimes with metal or timber legs. They may feature a bare material or be upholstered in smooth and luxurious fabrics.

Beds

Platform beds are popular with sleek, low-profile frames paired with trend-driven bedding.

Wall-hung vanities

Attached directly to the wall instead of standing on the floor, modern bathroom vanities have a sense of ease and simplicity.

Baths

Freestanding and curved baths are a simple, on-trend addition to any bathroom.

What decor should I invest in to create a contemporary feel at home?

Choosing the right decor can help you create a contemporary look quickly.

Artwork

Hanging a current piece of art can create a modern focal point in your space. Consider oversized, abstract, or geometric pieces.

Rugs

Rugs can be used to ground a room. You might want to go for an understated and neutral tone or select a bold rug to introduce a trending pop of colour.

Statement lighting

Sculptured light fixtures, such as oversized pendants or geometric chandeliers, are often seen in contemporary living rooms and dining areas.

Mirrors

Adding large mirrors to your space can make it feel brighter and more open.

What homes suit a contemporary look?

Since contemporary interior design is dynamic and adaptable, it can suit many different types of homes. In particular, it complements modern homes, lofts, or apartments with open floor plans. The style is clean lines and open-plan layouts also suit lofts or repurposed industrial buildings.

However, it can also be adapted for traditional homes. The trick for updating a traditional space with contemporary pieces is to create a striking contrast and lean into it.

Which rooms can I update?

Contemporary interior design can also be incorporated into every room in your home.

Living rooms

This open and uncluttered aesthetic is ideal for living rooms. Neutral sofas, sleek coffee tables, and statement lighting work well here.

Kitchens

Stainless steel appliances, clean cabinetry, and minimalist countertops make your kitchen functional and up-to-date.

Bedrooms

In vogue bedrooms often feature low-profile platform beds and uncluttered surfaces, creating a serene, restful space.

Bathrooms

With sleek fixtures and neutral tones, contemporary styling creates a spa-like feel in bathrooms.

How can you find a quality piece of contemporary furniture?

When you are investing in a new piece - you want to ensure it lasts. A simple and sleek design will not date. You can also opt for premium materials like top-grain leather and recycled teak which are durable and can easily be restored if you need to extend the life of your furniture.

You should also look for solid construction. Check the joints and seams for craftsmanship. Every piece should feel sturdy when in use, reducing the chance that it will become rickety with age.

Can I embrace contemporary design at home if I have already started creating another style?

One of the best things about contemporary design is its flexibility. It is easy to mix new furniture and decor with your existing styles for a personalised and up-to-date look.

For example, if you have already gone for a Scandinavian look, you can easily pair its clean lines and neutral palette with contemporary furniture. The minimalist and functional aspects of mid-century modern furniture work well in contemporary spaces, while the exposed brick walls and metal accents from industrial design add texture and depth. Eclectic and bohemian pieces can also warm up and personalise new age spaces without overwhelming them.

How can I start creating a current look?

Contemporary style is a fusion of what is current with your personal taste. That gives you a lot of flexibility when you start embracing the look at home. The best place to start is by sourcing inspiration from some of your favourite interior influencers, current design trends, and movements in the arts and culture world.

Think about the colour palette you want to create and how you might be able to embrace clean, modern lines in your furniture, fixtures, and fittings. From there, you can create your own take on the current trends - piece by piece.