What's the difference between modern and contemporary style?
For most people, the design terms modern style and contemporary style mean the same thing. But for designers and decorating professionals, the terms modern and contemporary refer to two very distinct design styles. While these two design styles share certain common features, they also have important differences that need to be understood to make the right decorating choices.
What is modern style?
The modern style is the design and décor of the modernist movement, which began in the late 1800s. Born of the German Bauhaus design schools and Scandinavian style's emphasis on minimalism and functionality, the modern decorating style, although its name often suggests otherwise, is very old-fashioned. Modern decoration is linked to the early/mid 20th century, from the 1900s to the 1950s.
The modern style has its roots in the industrial revolution and the emergence of new materials such as steel, glass and concrete. The pioneers of this movement, such as Le Corbusier, Mies van der Rohe and Marcel Breuer, advocated a functionalist approach summed up by the famous maxim "form follows function".
The fundamental principles of modern style
Modern design is based on several key principles:
- Elimination of the superfluous
- The use of raw materials
- The importance of natural light
- The creation of open spaces
This philosophy translates into uncluttered interiors where every element has a functional purpose.
The modern style then evolved into the Mid-Century style (1950s and 1960s). The Mid-Century style is very similar to the Modern style, but with strategically added touches of bright color for even greater elegance. This evolution marks a period of post-war optimism, when design became more accessible and colorful.
Characteristics of modern furniture
Modern furniture is characterized by clean geometric lines, industrial materials and functional design. Iconic pieces include Mies van der Rohe's Barcelona chairs, Marcel Breuer's Wassily armchairs, and creations by the Eames designers. These pieces feature exposed structures, slender metal legs and seats in leather or plain fabrics.
What is contemporary style?
Contemporary style became popular in the 1970s, around the same time as the rise of postmodernism. It was originally a mixture of styles before becoming recognizable as such. The contemporary style borrowed elements from both modernism and postmodernism. It also brought together ideas from many other movements, such as art deco, deconstructivism, futurism and many others.
And yet, "contemporary" style is constantly evolving. Over the decades, the decorative trends of the moment will always be considered contemporary. It is not necessarily linked to a specific period of time, as modern style is. Rather, it's a constantly evolving style that reflects today's trends.
The evolution of contemporary style
Unlike modern style, which remains faithful to its historical principles, contemporary style evolves with fashion and innovation. What was contemporary in the 1980s (neon colors, bold geometric shapes) differs greatly from today's contemporary (neutral tones, natural materials, technology, etc.). integrated).
Today's contemporary style incorporates current concerns: sustainability, well-being, connected technology and personalization. It draws on diverse global cultural influences and adapts to new lifestyles (telecommuting, multifunctional spaces, increasing urbanization).
Flexibility and adaptability
The strength of contemporary style lies in its ability to adapt to individual tastes and practical constraints. It allows the blending of eras, styles and materials, as long as the whole retains an aesthetic coherence and meets the needs of today's residents.
Similarities between the two styles
These two styles have similar characteristics. This is probably where much of the confusion comes from when trying to distinguish them. Both styles tend to favor simple, uncluttered spaces, with smooth, clean lines and artistic accents. This creates a sense of comfort and calm in the various rooms.
Neither style opts for designs with elements that are too visually "heavy and cumbersome". Contemporary spaces can, however, frequently deviate from this rule as trends dictate. In both styles, sofas, chairs and ottomans have elegant, deliberately exposed legs. They all tend to gravitate towards reflective surfaces such as metals and glass. You'll also find plenty of exposed wood and marble in both styles.
Common minimalist approach
Modern and contemporary share a minimalist approach that prioritizes space, light and organization. Both styles avoid clutter and favor balanced compositions where each element has its place and importance in the whole.
Materials and textures
Both styles appreciate raw, authentic materials: natural wood, metal, glass, stone, leather. However, the contemporary style allows more imagination in textures and can incorporate newer or unexpected materials.
Key differences between modern and contemporary
Relationship to time
The fundamental difference lies in their relationship to time: modern style is historically anchored (1900-1950), while contemporary style is by definition current and evolving. This temporal distinction influences all other aspects of these styles.
Rigidity vs. flexibility
Modern style follows strict rules inherited from the modernist movement, while contemporary style allows more freedom and experimentation. This difference manifests itself in the choice of colors, shapes and layouts.
Color palette
Modern style favors natural, neutral colors: white, black, gray, beige, with occasional accents of primary colors (red, blue, yellow). Contemporary style explores a more varied palette, including earthy tones, sophisticated pastels or bold colors depending on the trends of the moment.
Shapes and lines
Modern favors straight lines and clean angles, reflecting the industrial aesthetic. Contemporary more readily accepts curves, organic shapes and asymmetries, creating more dynamic, personalized compositions.
How to recognize each style
Indicators of modern style
A modern interior can be recognized by its iconic furniture (Eames chairs, Barcelona armchairs), dominant neutral colors, exposed industrial materials (steel, glass, concrete), and strict functional organization. Ornamentation is virtually absent, replaced by the beauty of raw materials and perfect proportions.
Indicators of contemporary style
A contemporary interior is characterized by its controlled eclecticism, its references to current trends, its more varied color palette, and its integration of modern technologies. Curves and organic shapes are more present, as are blends of textures and materials.
When to choose modern over contemporary
Because modern style focuses on design elements common to the 1900s to 1950s, it's best suited to people who appreciate the aesthetics of that era, with its preference for highly functional elements and warm, natural colors.
Modern style is suitable if you:
- Appreciate simplicity and order
- Look for durable, timeless solutions
- Value function over ornament
- Like historical references to 20th-century design
- Have the budget to invest in iconic quality pieces
- Prefer a consistent, predictable aesthetic
The contemporary design style is best suited to people who like to keep abreast of current decorating trends, who are willing (and have the budget) to change with the times. It also suits those who like the striking contrasts and curved lines so often found in contemporary design. Contemporary style is for those who find form and ornament more important than function.
Contemporary style is for those who :
- Like to follow trends and renew your decor
- Enjoy eclecticism and mixing styles
- Are looking for personalization and originality
- Favor comfort and adaptation to today's lifestyles
- Like to integrate new technologies
- Like to experiment with colors and shapes
Budgets and investments
Costs of modern style
Modern style can represent a significant initial investment, as it favors iconic, quality pieces, often produced by recognized manufacturers. However, these investments are sustainable: modern furniture retains its value and aesthetic relevance.
Contemporary style costs
Contemporary style offers greater budgetary flexibility, as it accepts a mix of pieces from different price ranges. However, its evolving nature can result in recurring costs to keep up with trends and renew certain elements.
Integration into different spaces
Modern style in different rooms
In the modern living room: sleek sofa, geometric coffee table, functional lighting, neutral palette. In the modern kitchen: sleek worktops, integrated appliances, invisible storage. In the modern bedroom: platform bed, built-in storage, indirect lighting.
Contemporary style in different rooms
Contemporary style adapts more freely to the constraints of each space, incorporating the latest innovations in design and technology. It can vary significantly from one room to the next, while maintaining overall coherence.
Detailed comparison table
Modern style
- Style tends to be strict and codified
- Decorative pieces are above all functional
- La color palette tends towards natural, neutral colors
- Favors clean, geometric lines
- Remains true to the historic principles of modernism
- Favors industrial materials (steel, glass, concrete)
- Minimal or absent ornamentation
- Iconic, timeless furniture
Contemporary style
- There are many variations on this style
- Furniture and decorative accessories can be ornamental
- Color palette tends toward contrast, with lots of black and white, but also trendy colors
- Often features organic curves and shapes
- Constantly adapts to the latest trends
- Incorporates a variety of materials, old and new
- Allows for ornamentation and personalization
- Evolving and adaptable to today's lifestyles
Making the right choice for your interior
The choice between modern and contemporary style depends essentially on your personality, lifestyle and aesthetic aspirations. Modern style is for those who appreciate historical consistency and timeless design, while contemporary style will appeal to those who prefer evolution and personalization.
It is also possible to create hybrid interiors that borrow from both styles, as long as a certain overall coherence is maintained. The important thing is to create an environment that reflects who you are and in which you feel comfortable, whether it's faithfully modern, resolutely contemporary, or skilfully blended.
Understanding these distinctions will enable you to make more informed decorative choices and create an interior that truly matches your expectations and lifestyle.