When it comes to sprucing up your living space, furniture plays a pivotal role in setting the tone and style. Modern and contemporary are terms often used interchangeably, but did you know that they actually refer to different design aesthetics? Let’s dive into what sets them apart, so you can better understand which one suits your home best. 

What’s Inside

• What is Modern Furniture?
• Key Features of Modern Furniture
• What is Contemporary Furniture?
• Characteristics of Contemporary Furniture
• What are Their Differences?
• Choosing Between Modern and Contemporary Furniture

What is Modern Furniture?

Modern furniture refers to a specific design movement that emerged in the late 19th century and early 20th century. It’s characterized by clean lines, sleek surfaces, and minimal ornamentation. 

Key Features of Modern Furniture

1. Clean Lines

Modern furniture emphasizes straight, unadorned lines, creating a sense of simplicity and functionality.

2. Minimalistic

Less is more with modern pieces, with an emphasis on simplicity and eliminating unnecessary elements.

3. Functionality

Form follows function in modern furniture design, prioritizing practicality and usability.

4. Use of Materials

Common materials include wood, metal, and glass, often combined in innovative ways to create visually striking pieces.

5. Neutral Colors

Modern furniture tends to favor neutral colors like white, black, and shades of gray, contributing to its timeless appeal.

What is Contemporary Furniture?

Contemporary furniture, on the other hand, refers to furniture that reflects the styles and trends of the present moment. Unlike modern furniture, which is tied to a specific era, contemporary design is constantly evolving and adapting to current tastes and preferences.

Related: Everything You Need To Know About Contemporary Furniture

Characteristics of Contemporary Furniture

1. Eclectic

Contemporary furniture draws inspiration from various design movements, resulting in a diverse and eclectic aesthetic.

2. Fluidity

Unlike the rigid adherence to certain principles in modern design, contemporary furniture allows for greater experimentation and fluidity.

3. Mix of Materials

Contemporary pieces often combine different materials, textures, and finishes for a more dynamic and visually interesting look.

4. Bold Colors

While neutral tones are still prevalent, contemporary furniture also embraces bold colors and patterns to add personality and flair.

5. Innovative Forms

Designers often push the boundaries of traditional forms and shapes in contemporary furniture, resulting in unexpected and innovative designs.

What are Their Differences?

Now, let’s compare them and see what sets them apart from one another!

1. Time Period

The evolution of modern furniture is associated with pieces made from the late 19th century and early 20th century, while contemporary furniture reflects current design trends.

2. Design Philosophy

Modern furniture adheres to the principles of the modernist movement, emphasizing simplicity, functionality, and minimalism. Contemporary furniture is more fluid and eclectic, drawing from various design influences and allowing for greater experimentation.

3. Materials and Colors

Modern furniture typically features clean lines, neutral colors, and a focus on natural materials like wood and leather. Contemporary furniture, on the other hand, may incorporate a wider range of materials and colors, including bold hues and unconventional combinations.

4. Evolution of Style

Modern furniture has a timeless quality, rooted in the design principles of its era, while contemporary furniture reflects the ever-changing tastes and preferences of the present moment, constantly evolving to stay relevant.

Choosing Between Modern and Contemporary Furniture

Ultimately, whether you opt for modern furniture or contemporary furniture depends on your personal style preferences and the aesthetic you want to achieve in your space. Consider factors such as your existing decor, the overall atmosphere you want to create, and the functionality of the pieces you select.

To simply put, while modern furniture and contemporary furniture share some similarities, they are distinct design aesthetics with their own unique characteristics. Understanding the differences between the two can help you make informed decisions when decorating your home. Whether you prefer the timeless elegance of modern design or the eclectic flair of contemporary style, there are plenty of options available to suit your taste and elevate your living space. 

If you are looking for home furniture in Metro Manila, visit our page. We have a variety of furniture items for you to choose from!

Like our Facebook page and follow us on our Instagram to keep in touch with us regularly.