How to Define Contemporary

Contemporary design uses sleek but inviting textures, lines and colors.

When decorating, designers and homeowners often face the challenge of finding "contemporary" pieces for their space. Finding contemporary pieces is not a challenge because these pieces are scarce; rather, it is difficult because not everyone agrees with the definition of contemporary. You must have a clear concept of what you deem contemporary before you can shop for items for your rooms, because the definition you choose influences the production date range of the pieces you ultimately will pick.

Instructions

1. Ask yourself whether someone can associate your decorating piece with an era identifier or trend. Contemporary pieces do not look dated.

2. Assess your ability to combine the piece with other pieces. A contemporary piece, because it is free from era identifiers, should mix with other works easily.

3. Check how technology has influenced the piece. As of 2010, designers are in a technological era, using software programs to develop pieces and designing work around technologies like televisions, modern appliances, stereos and other devices. Graphic designer Burkey Belser explains that, in terms of history, he sees contemporary design as the technological blend of social and art history.

4. Check the lines of the piece. Contemporary works use clean, minimalistic, smooth lines, according to the Home-Decorating-Reviews website. There is an emphasis on reflective surfaces like mirrors or stainless steel. However, the straight lines and surfaces also are warm and soft. For example, a wood platform bed creates straight angles, but has a texture that is inviting.

5. Investigate the clutter level the piece or set of pieces creates for the room. Contemporary design stays away from clutter, as indicated by the Home Decor Resource website.

6. Look at the colors involved. Contemporary design uses more neutral colors, with brighter shades as accents. For instance, you might have a brown sofa and love seat with a red armchair in the corner, or you could have a white sofa with a bright pink throw.

7. Feel the texture of the piece. Contemporary designs avoid thick textures, leaning instead to finer styles and materials. Even a fine texture can look rich with the right material and color.

References

• Dictionary: Contemporary
• International Network for the Conservation of Contemporary Art
• UK-Builder: Planning Permission Tips -- Contemporary Design
• The Design Channel: Contemporary Design: Designers Seeing the Contemporary
• Home Decor Resource: Sleek Contemporary
• Home Decorating Reviews: Contemporary Decorating Style