Decorating: Contemporary Style

A contemporary look defines a dramatic style choice that can explode with color or be subdued in a monochromatic scale

A contemporary decorating style does not have to bland; it can be a range of items that meet a family's modern-day needs. Open, airy, and sparsely arranged defines a clean contemporary look.

Glass and chrome or brushed aluminum add to the cutting edge tone of a contemporary home. Glass dining, coffee, and end tables open up a space. These can be supported - or encased in - wrought iron or other simply sculpted metals.

Stark white walls and light-colored, large ceramic tiles will add further to the decorating scheme. Walls can be textured or faux finished, but in a subtle white or off-white tone. Black and white as the base color scheme is a popular choice. Wood floors also have appeal in the upscale contemporary home. Countertops can be granite or concrete and fixtures should be similar in color to brushed aluminum or copper.

While the focal furniture pieces and window treatments may be monochromatic, bursts of accent colors will brighten the room. This can be with an art collection or a few well-placed, large plants, such as a fan palm.

The perceived starkness of a monochromatic interior must be balanced with a few cozy applications. Furniture with large, deep cushions bring the homey feel back into play. Extra throw pillows can add texture and additional color. Choose your colors, wisely, however. Make sure they tie together with the art, artificial flower arrangements, or sculptures.

If you are brave and want to liven up the walls, consider painting just one section in a bright accent color. In a kitchen, this spot could match the toaster or a blender, for instance.

If you want to dress up white wooden blinds, consider mounting a drapery rod and adding a weave a swag of muslin across. You can change it out for winter months with flannel or corduroy.

Lighting fixtures should be simplistic as well. Task areas can easily include track lighting. If you have a "gallery" wall of art, think about adding focused lights in this area as well for drama. In fact, super-sized plants should also be lighted. Any interesting shape can be utilized for table lamps.

When you are building your style palette, think about form as well as function as it plays a significant role. Small items will tend to be lost in a contemporary design, so think big when shopping.

Even large items can look crowded, so give each piece its space to shine on its own. Place carefully, control your colors, and you'll have a great contemporary space in no time.