A lot of people think that ‘modern furniture’ and ‘contemporary furniture’ are different words for the same thing. However, did you know that they are in fact two entirely different styles from two different periods? This article will help to explain the differences and similarities between the two styles and help you identify which type of furniture you have in your home.
What is modern furniture?
Despite its name, the modern style is not modern at all!
Modern furniture focuses on the design elements common in the early to mid 20th century. Before the start of the 20th century, overly ornate wooden furniture with intricate carvings was the norm in people’s homes.
In the 1900s the modernism movement came into being, and modern, more minimalist furniture became fashionable with people.
There are several different eras of modern design, each with a few key differences. The most popular modern design era is the furniture of the 1950s and 1960s (also known as ‘mid-century modern’), but the art deco design of the 1920s and the vintage look of the early 1970s are extremely popular with people too.
Modern furniture is an excellent option for those who like simple, crisp lines and geometric shapes. Modern furniture tends to favour warm, earthy colours like browns and beiges. Wooden furniture is highly popular, and furniture is generally extremely functional. Modern furniture is providing additional storage or extra features.
What is contemporary furniture?
The contemporary furniture style became popular in the 1970s. It originally borrowed elements from the modern movement, however it eventually evolved to become a style in its own right.
Unlike modern furniture which has kept the same universal look and feel for several decades, contemporary furniture is dynamic and continually adapts to reflect the current styles and trends.
Contemporary furniture is more ornamental than its modern counterpart and favours sweeping curves over straight lines. Materials used in furniture can vary, but stone, metal and glass are currently on-trend.
Contemporary design is more likely to use colour than modern furniture, predominately blacks, whites and greys, but dark greens, dark reds and dark purples are also popular with contemporary furniture fans.
Contemporary furniture is perfect for those who like to keep up to date with the most current trends and ensure that their home is a talking point with family and friends!
What are the similarities between the two styles?
Although the two styles have a lot of differences, they have a lot of similarities too.
Both styles favour minimalist designs and clean lines, unlike the traditional design style that came before. Both styles also favour bright open spaces, with plenty of natural lighting. These similarities mean that you can mix and match between the two styles in your home without it causing too much discord.
Now that you know the differences between the two styles, which furniture do you have the most of in your home, and which style do you like the most? We’d love to know!
For more designs and styles of Home furniture in Oakville, you can visit our online store.