Many homeowners misuse the terms "modern" and "contemporary". They may seem similar in meaning, but they hold onto different concepts. The modern interior is a representation of the first half of the 20th century, and contemporary deals with the trends that come and go once in a while. A modern home should be clutter-free, have clean straight lines, a neutral palette and streamlined furniture. But even this setting can sometimes get tiring and you'll want to change something. Luckily there are plenty of ways you can do this.
Try Double Curtains
Double curtains are not just a passing trend that lasts for a few months and then disappears. They have been in style for generations and are a great complement to any modern home. They add a sense of style and elegance to the space which one-layered curtains couldn’t achieve. The rich and luxurious double-layer curtains are an ideal way to show off your style class.
There are 2 types of curtains you can choose from block-out and sheer. The sheer type is thinner and will soften the natural light. It will transform your modern interior and add a luxurious feel. The blackout type does just what the name suggests, it block out the sunlight. They provide you with day and night privacy and are perfect for game rooms and bedrooms.
These curtains are an effective choice for people living in big cities. These places are filled with noise, cars, buses, people, sirens, music, and the block-out curtains will take care of this. They have the ability to absorb sound and reduce noise. Now you can have peaceful nights and wake up refreshed in the morning.
They're also energy efficient because of the thermal lining. The curtain has several layers of fabric stitched together and the thermal lining is on the reverse side. It's made of acrylic and it basically acts as a barrier. It keeps your room warm during the winter and cooler in the summer and saves you money on the electricity bill.
Besides being practical double curtains are very stylish. You can find them in many colours, but to keep up with the modern flare of the space, it’s better to stick with neutral colours such as white, beige, and shades of brown or grey. You can have different colours for both layers and combine them so they match the space. If length and width are a problem, you can always have them custom-made so they fit perfectly.
Focus on the Lighting
Every homeowner should know that the type of lighting they have in the house will greatly affect the mood, look and level of comfort. The lighting fixtures they choose can make or break the whole atmosphere. Modern homes can handle almost any type of lighting. They can handle many materials, shapes and sizes.
You can search for a unique piece that can be the focal point of the room, something that can make an impact. You can choose something daring, with unconventional materials, or even something artsy. Sculptural lights are always a nice element in a room. They usually have organic shapes that fit perfectly in modern homes.
Having ambient lighting is always a great idea. Plan the scheme according to the size of the space and add more attention where you need to. They can be a great addition when combined with double-layer curtains. Advanced technology also gave us smart lighting which can be voice or motion activated. These clever designs will make your home unique.
Lay Down New Flooring
One of the best and most effective ways to create a modern home is to start with the flooring. Good flooring can make a statement for anyone from their first step inside the room. The flooring is the base, the foundation that will help you create an open and vibrant space. Hardwood flooring will never go out of style. It's modern and traditional at the same time.
These floors come in many shades these days and you can surely find something you like. Give the room a clean and sleek feeling. Have them custom-made for your own design. Go to a reliable supplier that will give you consistency and less variation in colour. To create an even simpler design, go for wider boards. They'll also make the flooring stand out more.
Invest in High-Tech Appliances
Every modern home deserves to have high-tech appliances. Give them a chance and see that they can be energy-efficient, eco-friendly and some are even lifesaving. There's no need to mention the smart TV. We all have one in our home and we know how practical and useful it is. Smart speakers are another technological advancement that makes life simpler and more fun.
They’re easy to set up and use and are equipped with many different features. They can call someone for you, adjust your thermostat and change your playlist. Smart lightbulbs are among the favourites among homeowners of modern homes. They're also a useful security tool. You can make thieves think you’re home when you’re not.
They come in many colours and can range from bright and warm to more subtle light. You can adjust it for any part of the day and use it to set a specific mood. Doorbell cameras are made so you don’t have to peek through your double-sided curtains. You now have the chance to see who’s at your front door without moving from the sofa.
They have a resolution that can vary from 450p up to 1080p. Make sure you get a doorbell camera with night vision. Most of them have 180-degree viewing angles and motion sensors. You can connect the camera to your phone, TV, tablet or other devices, which makes it easier to control.
Incorporate Mirrors and Art
The base of a modern home is neutral colours. However, you’re allowed to add a pop of colour and brighten up the space if you want to. One of the ways to do this is to incorporate art. There are stunning modern pieces painted by modern artists that can beautify the space without a lot of effort. A bright-coloured art piece will be an eye-catcher and possibly the centrepiece of the room.
Mirrors are also a must for your modern design. Besides being practical they’re also a great decorative element. They can act as a reflective surface to get more lighting inside the space if you position them right. Placing them opposite the window will give you this effect. Big mirrors make the room seem larger, and smaller ones can be a great deco element.
