Modern vs. Contemporary

Modern vs. Contemporary 

When it comes to Interior Design and Architectural styles, we hear these two styles quite often : Contemporary & Modern. A lot of people tend to have trouble differentiating the two, and with good reason. Both styles have a lot of similar characteristics, such as : simple, clean lines, lots of neutrals,  glass, metals and wood materials. So, what sets these two styles apart then? 

Modern

“Modern” style started in the late 1800’s. It was a movement where they tried to break free from tradition. Tradition from all of the style era’s previous to this were very decorative. From all the crown mouldings, drapery, patterns and prints on furniture, flooring options etc. a lot of detail and thought went into designing interiors and architecture before the modern movement. Modern style tends to follows a strict style format. 

Here is a kitchen that is all straight clean lines, clutter free, natural materials and all neutral in colour, although sometimes you will see pops of colour in modern design, this picture illustrates modern to perfection. 

Contemporary 

“Contemporary” style differs from modern because it isn’t stuck on one style, it has a lot of clean simple lines but is not afraid to introduce curved lines rather than all straight. It is eclectic. Contemporary doesn’t follow a strict style format like modern style tends to.  

This picture has a few modern characteristics such as the neutral colours, the natural wood, and even the table and chairs are mid century modern design, but what makes it contemporary is the mouldings, the open shelves with decorative glassware displayed rather than hidden away in a clutter free fashion, the subway tiles and the trendy grey tones. This combines several trends, and that is what makes it contemporary. 

I hope this short article was informative, I like to keep it short & sweet! If I missed anything or you have questions please comment :)  

Mid Century Modern

Recently I had some clients (a young couple) who had a mid century modern style home and were looking for some ideas. They adored colour and their preferred colour palette was grey, yellows & teal, they also wanted to honour the original style of the home but bring it up to today's standards. So I put together a mood board for them. You can shop this look at Lounsbury Furniture Moncton. 

Dining Chairs

Much like the "Accent Chair" Dining Chairs can be used to add personality and some interest to a space. I love mixing different dining chairs around a table. Here are a few of my favourite dining chairs that are available at Lounsbury Furniture Moncton.

Accent Chairs

Accent Chairs are a great way to add some interest to a room, instead of doing the standard sofa, loveseat and matching chair look, we are seeing more accent chairs paired with a sofa. This is also a great idea for couples with different styles and comfort preferences. Here are a few of my personal favourites, available at Lounsbury Furniture Moncton.

Eclectic Dining Room

Matchy- Matchy dining sets are so boring - Let's mix it up a bit. Loving the mix of rustic, modern and traditional. Shop the look at Lounsbury's Moncton. 

Shop The Look

Ever look through Pinterest, HGTV, Houzz, Architectural Digest etc. and wonder "How can I re-create this look within my budget?" Wonder no more! Leave the searching up to me - Send me a picture of a look you like and I can help find the pieces to make it a reality. Shop this Look at Lounsbury's Moncton.

High/Low

Do you have expensive taste?! You don't have to spend a fortune to have great style. Here two of my favourite styles priced High & Low. Available at Lounsbury's Furniture Moncton excluding Ralph Lauren.