Modern vs. Contemporary Design Style: What's the Difference?

For most people, the design terms modern and contemporary sound like they mean the same thing—and a dictionary definition supports this interpretation. The words are considered synonyms. But for home designers and interior decorating professionals, the terms modern and contemporary refer to two distinct design styles. Read on to see how these two decorating styles share some common characteristics and the differences between them.

What Is Modern Style?

The modern style is the design and decor of the modernism movement, which began in the very late 1800s. Birthed by the German Bauhaus schools of design and the Scandinavian design emphasis on simplicity and function, the modern decor style is very old. In general terms, modern decor is linked to the beginning through the middle of the 20th century—the 1900s through the 1950s.

The modern style eventually morphed into midcentury modern (the 1950s and 1960s) and postmodernism (1970s and 1980s). While midcentury modern looks a lot like modern design with splashes of bright color added strategically, postmodernism doesn't. Postmodernism is bold, breaks all rules of tradition, and has a certain whimsy and irony about it. It is more about the form than the function, which is the exact opposite of the practical features found in classic modern design.

What Is Contemporary Style?

What is referred to as contemporary style became popular in the 1970s, about the same time as postmodernism's rise in popularity. It was originally a blend of styles before it became recognizable on its own. Contemporary design borrowed elements from modernism and postmodernism. It also gathered ideas from many other styles such as Art Deco, deconstructivism, futurism, and more.

And yet, "contemporary" style is always changing. As each decade passes, the decor trends of the day will always be considered contemporary. It is not necessarily tied to a specific period in the same way that the modern style is. Instead, it is an ever-evolving style that reflects what is happening today.

Key Similarities

There are similar characteristics to be found in both styles as well. This is likely where much of the confusion stems from when trying to distinguish them. Both styles tend to favor simple, uncluttered spaces with smooth, clean lines and artistic flair. This imparts a comfortable and calming feeling in a very inviting room.

Neither style prefers ornate designs or heavy elements. Contemporary homes can, however, bend this rule frequently as the trends change. In both styles, sofas, chairs, and ottomans have exposed legs. They each tend to gravitate toward reflective surfaces such as exposed metals and glass. You will also find plenty of exposed wood in both styles, from structural beams to raw wood end tables with metal bases.

Key Differences

Modern style is considered warm, cozy, and focused on functionality. Furniture and decor feature natural elements, such as wood and rattan. The streamlined silhouettes of modern furniture are long and low with strong lines, tapered legs, and angled arms. Modern colors are often muted and earthy.

Contemporary style is more ornamental though sleek and featuring a lot of curves. Tables and other pieces usually have smooth, shiny lacquered or glossy finishes or are made of chrome or glass. Contrasting colors, such as black and white, are favored. However, a contemporary color scheme may also be neutral with pops of bold, saturated tones.

When to Choose Modern Over Contemporary Style

Because modern style focuses on the design elements common to the years from 1900 to 1950, it is best for a homeowner who enjoys the aesthetics of that era, with its preference for highly functional elements and warm, natural colors. And midcentury modern furniture and decor works best for someone who likes to hone a single design theme throughout each room, from the living room to kitchen and bedrooms.

The contemporary design style is best suited for homeowners who like to stay abreast of the current trends in decor and ornament, and who are willing (and have the budget) to change with the times. And it's best for those who like the stark contrasts and curved lines that are so often found in contemporary design. Contemporary style is for those who find form and ornament more important than function.