Modernity is embedded in our daily surroundings. It is in the art lining the walls of contemporary galleries, the clothing displayed at luxurious boutiques and it has even seeped into the core of our homes: the bedroom. This particular space is the embodiment of a person’s character, habits and tastes which is why even within a single decorative style the outcomes always vary. There are a myriad of ways to envision a modern bedroom, can you find out which one calls out your name?
Mid-century modern
This trend developed in a post-World War II scene during the period between 1945 and 1969. Its functional and geometric approach has earned it an unquestionable popularity that has remained intact today within countless of homes. A bedroom featuring mid-century modern design often covers its surfaces with base tones such as beige, powder blue or sage, accentuated by one or two bold contrasting colors of your choice that provide a pop up effect. Furniture is characterized by clean lines combined with curved angles; a classic contrast that plays with structure and balance while retaining a graceful aesthetic. An example of this is the Siri mid-century square dining table; a simple wooden piece in a dark walnut brown tone formed by solid angles and sharp lines. Through this concept of design, space and furniture mold together creating smooth contours which offer a sense of continuity and simplicity.
A look at the past
Borrowing elements from the past to transform the present is only another way of seeking creativity beyond the boundaries of time. As contradictory as this might seem, modern design is often defined by previous notions of aesthetics; it can even be inspired by classic industrial spaces and antiquities. Your bedroom can likewise pay tribute to the past by incorporating vintage components such as exposed brick, concrete, weathered wood, and industrial lightning. A black and grey color scheme with metallic or wooden touches is also part of this urban-chic decor which embraces the sleek uniformity of edgy yet stylish arrangements.
Another way of bending the stiff impressions of modernity is to dedicate a space for one or two valuable antiquities such as an ornate gold wall mirror or an impressive French brass chandelier which, standing by themselves, constitute the room’s focal point. Such objects and historical styles cannot be seen as outdated; quality design is, after all, timeless.
“Less is more” vs. “more is more”
Minimalist and maximalist décor; two opposites that generate signature looks based on an absolute focus on space by either freeing it from material burdens or by embellishing every available surface. A minimalist bedroom can create a powerful statement with few elements and absolutely no distractions. The style’s elegance is brought forth through the use of monochromatic, pale hues, a few basic, well defined shapes and soft textures that add a warm touch. This efficient, low profile movement leaves room to play with shapes and sizes through the use of geometric surfaces and curved furniture such as the maple wood Arti bench which is perfectly in sync with sophisticated, light interiors.
On the other hand there is also the maximalist style as a counter movement:
“The world can be quite a grim place sometimes and maximalist interiors provide an escape – a fantasy in which to lose yourself”-Luke Edward Hall, London-based artist and designer.
This approach features bedrooms brimming with extravagance; every surface is coated with rich fabrics, eccentric accessories, statement wallpaper and bold color combinations which are, nonetheless, coordinated to present a cohesive composition. In addition, furniture from different styles and periods can be combined as long as they correspond with the interior’s ambience. This opulence should not be confused for hoarding; it is rather an unrestrained celebration of the diverse nature of grandeur.
Modern Boho
As the name suggests, this trend consists on adding a bohemian personality to a modern bedroom without having to sacrifice the contemporary style. This chic and free-flowing type of décor blends diverse forms of design to establish a casual and comfortable vibe. You can view it as another manifestation of the fusion between modern and vintage although, in this case, it is created by layering different textures and playful patterns through dyed textiles and tapestries. Amidst this buoyant environment, organic touches are welcomed through the incorporation of houseplants such as cacti, ferns or even an exotic bonsai tree. Such a space provides the perfect opportunity to display vintage furniture such as chaises lounges or beds with hanging canopies and to frame your bedroom with provocative items and decorations like original abstract paintings, masks, sculptures and graphic walls.
Modern Zen
Like minimalism, this style draws on simplicity and even takes it a step further by viewing it as an art form deeply rooted within a healthy lifestyle. It relies on natural light, visual balance and a respect for empty yet meaningful spaces. Through this manner, the bedroom is designed to provide a sense of completion, achieved by coordinating materials such as a wooden Homero lounge chair paired with square Magna nesting tables made from quality grained wood. This signature look seeks to induce a tranquil state of mind but it does not necessarily imply a lack of decoration: soft, natural colors like beige, grey and different shades of brown are allowed to prevail over white, floors can incorporate comfortable finishes with matching wool or cotton rugs and electronic devices perceived as distractions may be replaced with delicate monochrome ornaments.
With this introduction to the different categories of contemporary bedrooms one can discard a rigid approach to home décor and instead navigate through the different possibilities that both old and new trends have to offer. The question, however, remains: How do you envision modernity?