Modern Versus Contemporary Design - What is the difference?

Since people often use the words modern and contemporary interchangeably, it fools people in to thinking that they mean the same thing; Even the thesaurus recognizes them as synonyms!  In this article I will explain the differences and some of the similarities between Modern and Contemporary Design.

When someone says modern, we think up to date.  However it is actually the opposite, modern design is quite old.  Modern design refers to “the modern style” from the modernism movement and mid-century modern.  This style of design offers simplicity and function.  It usually uses open floor plans, strong lines, and natural or neutral colours.  Modern design is a style that doesn’t change but stays the same as it is from a different time period.

Contemporary design style belongs to the present.  Therefore it is ever changing.  Contemporary designs blend many different design styles and mirror whatever is “new and in style”. In contemporary design, you will often see extreme colour schemes and “futuristic” designs that reflect the current and ever-changing times.

These two different design styles are often confused with one another because they both seem to reflect simple, uncluttered spaces that have clean lines.

I hope this helped clear up the confusion!  If you have any questions or still aren’t sure if your home is modern or contemporary, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Sincerely,

Astra Mulawka
Sales Representative
Better Homes and Gardens
Real Estate Signature Service