A beginner's guide to modern interior design

by Anna M Woods 11/27/2023

While the term “modern” is frequently used to describe anything "new," modern interior design is a specific style that originated in the early twentieth century. Modern interior design is a versatile starting point for anybody wanting to redecorate part or all of their home. Here are some of the basic elements of modern interior design:

Common characteristics

If you like simple and uncluttered spaces, a modern design might be perfect for you. You can use modern interior design in any size or shape of floor plan. If you want to incorporate it into your home, here is a checklist of some key characteristics:

  • Lack of “fussiness” or embellishments
  • Low-sitting horizontal furnishings like sofas and benches
  • Minimal window treatments to allow maximum natural light
  • An emphasis on natural materials such as wood, metal, leather and natural fibers
  • Reflective surfaces made of chrome, glass or stainless steel
  • Neutral color palettes
  • Exposed structural elements like concrete or wooden beams
  • Straight lines rather than curved lines

Modern vs contemporary

Modern design and contemporary design are frequently mistaken for one another. While they share a great deal of features, it's important to know the differences that set them apart. Modern design is a more specific term referring to a design movement in the early twentieth century. Contemporary design is much more fluid and contains many trends combined with modern elements.

For example, contemporary design includes more ornamentation and embellishments on furnishings. Contemporary furniture pieces have curves rather than hard edges, and the color palette favors dramatic contrast rather than neutrals.

These are just the basics of understanding modern interior design. If you're inspired to try modern interior design in your home, remember these essentials to use as a starting point.

About the Author
Author

Anna M Woods

Hi, I'm Anna Woods and I'd love to assist you. Whether you're in the research phase at the beginning of your real estate search or you know exactly what you're looking for, you'll benefit from having a real estate professional by your side. I'd be honored to put my real estate experience to work for you.

I am a full-service Realtor® since 2010. I serve the High Desert in Southern California. 

Prior to earning my real estate license, I earned my Bachelor of Science in Business Administration with an emphasis in Accounting at California State University, San Bernardino in 2002. I found myself not satisfied in my work life, so I sought out a new career. I found happiness in helping families obtain their dream homes. In 2019 I became an Associate Broker.

I moved to the High Desert in 2003, in search of peace and quiet away from the city lights. I found the rural lifestyle in the High Desert. I now have several farm animals and love to garden.