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Modern interior: styles, ideas: art deco, neoclassicism, hi-tech
An article about modern interior design styles such as neoclassic, hi-tech, and art deco, the distinctive features of each of the styles on the Room Planner blog.
What is Modern Interior?
The Modern Interior design style is an evolving concept and, thus, not as easy to define as some other styles. At its heart is the incorporation of modern art into modern interiors designs.
Its roots lie in Scandinavian and German architecture and design which are known for their simple, fuss-free concepts. There are ample earthy colors with an emphasis on monochrome, possibly as far as whitewashed rooms. There is also a lack of intricate detailing on the components, be it furniture, fittings, or even art.
Modern interior furniture invariably has exposed legs. This is true for chairs, ottomans, and sofas alike.
A modern interior home will often feature a variety of materials. However, there is a limitation to earthy tones such as:
wood;
stone;
(imitation or genuine) leather.
In contrast to other similar styles, modern houses interiors focus less on aesthetics and more on utility and purpose.
Modern house interior design is easily recognizable for its generous use of minimalism, which results in clean, straight lines. Despite this, modern interior design for homes maintains a warmth not commonly seen in minimalist interiors. Much of the credit for this goes to the balanced use of warm and earthy shades; a modern interior is commonly replete with browns and greens.
A modern interior embraces the open space concept. This often manifests in semi-combined spaces unfettered by walls or partitions. Two common examples are adjacent kitchens and dining rooms, and a living room that flows into an entertainment area.
The result is an enclosed pace that can still be airy and unencumbered.
Trendy modern art deco interiors
Art deco is short for Arts Décoratifs, from the Exposition Internationale des arts décoratifs et industriels modernes (International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts) held in Paris in 1925. Designs art deco connect classical and modern interiors, bridging modernity with luxury. Exquisite craftsmanship is the hallmark of art deco interior designs.
Art deco design commands widespread appeal but some of its elements are more timeless than others.
Statement mirrors lead the charge in this regard. With a heavy emphasis on the metal frame, particularly when polished to a gleaming shine, they can come in the widest range of geometric shapes.
Alluring geometry is one of the essential constituents of art deco design. Triangle-based shapes such as pyramids, hourglasses, and cones are particularly common as bases or stands. Find them for dining and coffee tables, and even seating for a bold and unmistakable statement that you have embraced art deco.
So much of this style reflects its roots in the Roaring ‘20s and the loud, brash, ostentatiousness. Shine and luster come into play perfectly here, in the form of gold. Gold-accented decorative pieces and furniture are a natural fit. Better still, combine them with an iconic relic of the 1920s such as a drinks trolley for maximum effect.
There is nothing subtle about art deco so every piece of furniture must boast a large footprint. Opt for an oversized plush sofa in bold block colors, preferably in solid, heavy wood such as teak.
For an intimate connection to its roots, try black and white prints of the stars of the era. Unsurprisingly, each frame should be large, gilded, and imposing.
Neoclassical - aristocratic style in a new reading
Neoclassicism interior design is a modern reinterpretation of classical interiors. A typical neoclassical interior will be awash in bright but soothing colors. Wood features abundantly in the furniture, and also in floors with the geometric mosaic of parquet.
There is a perpetual grasp at the past, and it is common to find a fireplace – authentic or imitation - in a home built to the requirements of neoclassicism design.
Gaze upwards and a neoclassical space will reward you with a white matte or satin surface, perhaps adorned with a decorative rosette around a chandelier. Walls are paneled in straight, neat blocks. For variation, some designers add a touch of softness with floral motifs.
True to its heritage, the neoclassical design uses natural fabrics almost exclusively. That concept applies to both drapery and floor coverings. Carpets should not be overly large. Ideally, they should act as a seamless partition to a central object or area.
Lighting plays an important part in creating a neoclassical interior and takes a multi-layered approach:
a chandelier;
multiple floor lamps placed asymmetrically;
elaborate sconces.
All work together to create a space. In the bedroom, a large, elegant bed is essential. They are usually paired with matching tables or chests of drawers. A circular mirror with an elaborate frame or a similarly eye-catching piece of art can take pride in place above the bed. An ostentatious chandelier or large-stemmed light fixture in the center of the ceiling is a favorable addition.
Hi-tech - the aesthetics of technology
Hi-tech design interiors were naturally a product of the technological boom of the late 20th century. It relies on cutting-edge, resilient materials to create objects that are functional and usually more compact than their predecessors.
There is heavy use of plastic, metal, glass, and chrome, giving components a futuristic appearance. Surfaces are invariably smooth and featureless. Many fittings and fixtures may hide functional elements behind hidden panels. Furniture is minimalistic and purely functional, with an abundance of stripped-down geometric shapes.
Light shades of neutral colors:
white;
concrete;
beige;
light gray;
cream.
Work best for high-tech-style walls. Glazed, transparent, or frosted glass, polished metal, and mirrors can add to the illusion of greater space while keeping with the theme.
Flooring is almost always glossy, regardless of the specific material used:
plain;
vinyl tiles;
porcelain stoneware;
laminate.
Are all viable candidates. It should ideally be devoid of any textile floor coverings. Avoid prints or ornamentation, too. In keeping with the cutting edge personality of hi-tech design, floors may even be designed to be temperature controlled.
Some homeowners opt to add decor in the form of a hi-tech sign featuring neon lights. Movie poster prints of science-fiction movies and official merchandise can elevate a space. However, keep these to a minimum as such spaces do not work well with an overabundance of distracting features.
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