The dish on modern design
Modern style is a clean, streamlined furniture and architecture style that first appeared in the 1930s with roots in the German Bauhaus School of Design and Scandinavian modern design. The modern movement was a response to what happened in design and history up to that point. Art, architecture and interior design broke from traditional detailing and styles and forged a new path. Modern design is still a prominent style in today's homes where homeowners seek original mid century modern furniture and accessories or resort to reproduction pieces.
Defining characteristics of modern interior design include:
John Maniscalco Architecture
- simple, minimal, flat surfaces and unbroken lines
- low profile furniture with raised legs for an airy look
- wood floors but sometimes, cork, cement or rubber
- minimal accessories
- emphasis on form, geometric shapes
- large windows that let the outside in
- natural elements for accessories (large plants, sculptural twigs)
- use of metals, leather and glass
- molded plywood, clear and white plastics for furniture
- simple or no hardware
George Nijland
- predominately light walls, especially white
- controlled use of pure colours in furniture/accessories ( mostly red, yellow, blue)
- use of texture
- use of art to add colour, design elements and a focal point
use of geometric patterning
Many of the iconic furniture pieces of mid century design are still reproduced today and this confuses people because modern is not that new! What some consider leading edge has been popular since the middle of the century.
One of the strongest trends in home decor today is to mix modern pieces with contemporary decor. The overall tone of this room is mid century modern , but the severity of line and the more minimal approach has been softened with accessories. Removing flowers, books, vases and pillows would create a truly modern decor.
In my own home I like to mix mid century modern pieces like the dresser, bed and chair with softer accents and a range of patterns and textures.