The Difference Between Modern and Contemporary Design

According to the dictionary, ‘modern’ and ‘contemporary’ mean present-day. However, if you were to ask an interior designer, they would say that the styles feature different aesthetics and themes.

The terms may seem interchangeable but terminology matters when it comes to design. We dig deeper into these two styles here.

https://atap.co/malaysia/en/ideas/gable-at-twentyfive7-contemporary-bedroom-1

This design style is one that is constantly evolving as it reflects present day popular interior design trends. Unlike modern design, this style doesn’t refer to a specific period in time. Contemporary design borrows from various trending industry styles like industrial, Scandinavian, minimalism, and other styles without focusing on one.

https://atap.co/malaysia/en/ideas/the-irrawaddy-house-contemporary-minimalistic-kitchen

You can expect to see a combination of interior design styles with contemporary themed homes. Although the design is fairly ambiguous, there are a few trademark traits like neutral and monochrome palettes, minimalism, and clean lines.

https://atap.co/malaysia/en/ideas/posh-polished-state-of-the-art-residence-1-contemporary-living-room-2

https://atap.co/malaysia/en/ideas/setia-eco-park-shah-alam-classic-modern-dining-room

Unlike contemporary design, modern interior styles refer to a specific time period. The style focuses on early to mid-twentieth century and is a precursor to contemporary design. Born in the peak of modern art movement, the interior design style features Scandinavian and German accents.

https://atap.co/malaysia/en/ideas/villa-14-modern-dining-room-living-room-1

Just like contemporary style, modern interior design has its own distinct style too. Think earthy palettes, natural materials like wood, leather, and stone, and streamlined silhouettes.

https://atap.co/malaysia/en/ideas/break-of-dawn-modern-bedroom

Mid-century modern is a variation of the modern look, gaining popularity in the 50s and 60s, featuring a more classic, understated, and minimal aesthetic.

By definition contemporary design is what’s trending in the interior design industry at any given moment. Modern interior design, however, has distinguishable aesthetics like earthy materials, clean lines, and warm neutrals.

https://atap.co/malaysia/en/ideas/kepayang-haven-contemporary-modern-living-room-1

Both design styles have a few shared characteristics like minimalist elements, clean architecture, and a smooth flow of space. These are reasons why many industry professionals opt to mix and match the two styles in one space.

https://atap.co/malaysia/en/ideas/denai-alam-1-contemporary-modern-living-room