9 Tips to Decorate a Modern Space with Color

Because of modern décor’s minimalistic use of clean lines and sleek surfaces, people sometimes think a modern space needs to be cold and stark. Today’s contemporary interiors are warm, welcoming spaces, free from clutter and full of personality. Understanding how to appropriately use color in these spaces can help you create an environment that’s not only chic but also expresses your unique sensibilities.

• Start small. Color can be intimidating, and if you’re not sure of yourself yet, it’s smart to start by doing just one small room. By decorating a bathroom, guest room, or office, you’ll learn what resonates with you and what doesn’t, in a space that’s easy to redo if it doesn’t work out.
• Keep it simple. The beauty of modern décor is found in its simplicity of design. The deliberate addition of color and texture can add interest, but keep it clean, without fussy patterns or too many colors.
• Be selective with where and how you use color. The main colors used in contemporary style are neutrals, black, and white. Accenting a neutral palette with bright colors makes a statement, as does painting one wall in a bright, bold color and using neutrals everywhere else.
• Mind the line. Clean lines are the hallmark of contemporary style. Make the most of architectural details like high ceilings and bare windows, being careful to keep the décor simple so you don’t disrupt the line and paying as much attention to bare spaces as you do to those full of objects. Consider painting interesting structural elements in contrasting colors to make them stand out.
• With furniture, use color strategically. Like the lines in your room, your furniture should be simple and clean. Stick with clean, smooth geometric shapes and employ natural fibers to add texture. Steer clear of fussy detail like tassels, fringes, or ruffles, opting for geometric throw pillows in a pop of color.
• Use light to your advantage. Track lighting or recessed lighting can wash a wall in light, and direct lighting can call attention to a piece of artwork or furniture you want to feature. Using high gloss or metallic finishes for your frames can reflect the light in a stunning way, but be careful not to clutter a contemporary room with too many colors or pieces.
• Consider the color wheel. Do you know how to choose colors that work well together, rather than clashing? Look to the color wheel to find the right hues: choose colors beside each other on the wheel to work within in harmonious tones, or pick contrasting but complementary colors from opposite sides of the wheel.
• Choose your mood. Blues are calming, greens relaxing, reds and yellows exciting, so when you’re picking your colors, consider the purpose of the room before you choose. Yellow in a kitchen can be cheerful, while blue or green may be a better option for a bedroom.
• Extend your palette. Carry the same shades throughout your living space, for a uniform look. When the entire room is pulled from the same palette, it creates harmony in your design.

When you’re furnishing a space with modern décor, you owe it to yourself to learn more about Möbler Furniture. Since 1993, Möbler Furniture has served customers in the Edmonton area, providing exceptional quality and service, and featuring modern design that fits the contemporary lifestyle. Our furniture collections come from designers around the world, and our knowledgeable staff can help you make the right design decision for your home, in keeping with your lifestyle, aesthetic sensibilities, and budget. Call us at 780.444.1199 to learn more, or contact us through our website.