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Modern furniture is characterized by a light and airy appearance. It often comes in vivid colors with upholstery fabric in varied textures from nubby fabric to sleek leather. Lines are smooth, sleek and uncluttered. Many people credit the hit television show Mad Men with the recent surge in decorating using the modern style.
People who faithfully followed the show became influenced by Pete’s apartment and wanted to emulate the style. More likely, it is the fact that the way we live fits the modern style more than other styles. Everyone has large screen televisions and stereo equipment that requires media cabinets, or is mounted on walls. These items have sleek, purposeful lines. A television becomes both functional and decorative.
Strictly speaking, modern furniture is defined as being furniture from the mid-nineteen hundreds to the present and it is made with state of the art materials. Often modern and contemporary furniture and decorations are thought to be one and the same. There is a difference, though. Modern is thought of as being timeless whereas contemporary tends to be futuristic and trendy.
When planning to redecorate you should be prepared before you begin to shop.
1. Measure out the room and draw a picture of the room that includes a fireplace if you have one, or radiators. Also include any alcoves, doorways or window spaces to help you decide where to place furnishings.
2. Decide before you shop whether you will include new carpeting or flooring options. The same applies to wall covering. Remember that you’ll be looking for clean, fluid lines and an airy feel. Dark wall coverings or colors will negate the effect you are trying to achieve.
3. Pre-select furniture stores that carry modern furniture. It is a waste of your time and effort to shop for modern furniture in a store that only carries traditional styles.
4. Be committed to going the whole way in redecorating. To get the proper effect you will have to change lamps and other décor or the mood of redecorating will become confusing. You may have perfectly usable coffee and side tables, but their style may be all wrong for a modern look.
5. Know how you want your room to function. Do you want a conversation area? Will you be watching television in the room? Do you want the room to be restive, or do you want to have a feeling of excitement?
When you begin to shop, keep in mind that you can have variety in both color and texture. The idea is to reflect your personality in the design. A sudden splash of color creates interest, but a whole roomful of vivid colors would have a jarring effect. A sofa and two chairs in exactly the same color and texture would be boring and sterile looking even if they have the modern lines you are trying to achieve.
Don’t lose sight of comfort. For a room to work in whatever style you select, it must be comfortable and functional. Don't make a hasty decision. Ask the sales person to put a hold on your selections and think about it overnight.
Samantha Reynolds is a writer/blogger for Patioshoppers, home to fabulous patio goods and accessories such as outdoor patio umbrellas and gas patio heaters to help keep your outdoor living area fresh and comfortable.
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