A word that gets banded about far too often these days when it comes to creating an interior style is “modern”. For many “modern” can be used interchangeably with “contemporary”, meaning anything that looks fresh or up-to-date.
However, there is actually a real distinction to be made between “modern” and “contemporary” when it comes to interior design. In this blog post we look at the differences between what contemporary and modern kitchens are, and how modern kitchens can be achieved through your choice of units and kitchen worktop.
What is modern interior style?
Far from following the latest trends or using space-edge cutting designs, “modern” refers to a specific period of interior design. Spanning the years between roughly 1920 – 1950 , modern interior style is a classical and iconic era of design, when the ornate and overly fussy embellishments of the Victorian and Edwardian eras gave way to more practical designs that utilised new and exciting materials, which nowadays, are completely commonplace. These new materials could be moulded into shapes that had never been seen before, giving them a real space age and slightly alien look and feel.
Why is modern interior design popular?
Modern design is tried and tested. If you find traditional styles a little too old-fashioned or twee, and contemporary styles a bit too cold and minimalist for your liking, modern style is a perfect middle ground between the two.
Whilst the designs are based on those from over 50 years ago, modern design still feels fresh and exciting. It is, in essence, a timeless style that gives you the freedom to be expressive with your decor.
Many home retailers design and sell a large amount of modern style products for the home, as they know that these tried and trusted designs sell and never go out of fashion.
Modern kitchens: What will you find?
It’s pretty easy to spot modern kitchens. A traditional style or country kitchen contains elements that wouldn’t be out of place in a Victorian kitchen or something from the turn of the century, such as deep rectangular sinks, ornate taps with cross handles and chunky wooden worktops. Whereas, contemporary designs are sleek and minimalist, usually with concealed door openings, featuring a pared back or monochrome colour palette.
Modern kitchens, far from blending these two styles, have a look and feel all their own. With a colour palette based on neutrals, including beige, tan or grey, or bold, primary colours, there is nothing fussy about its appearance, with an equal emphasis on practicality and style.
Whilst modern kitchens invariably include up-to-date appliances that are built into the design, units can have a slightly more crafted look about them, with bevelled patterns and knob-style handles. Finishes can range from plain white, to bolder shades, and can also include a range of wood finishes. Sinks are normally stainless steel.
What kind of worktop will work well in a modern kitchen?
The great thing about a modern style kitchen is that a wide variety of kitchen work tops can be used to complement your overall design. If your units are light, it is always a good idea to go for a contrasting colour. For example, white units could be accessorised with a black laminate worktop such as the Tandem Black Slate worktop.
If you really want to remain authentic to the modern style, you could even consider using a formica kitchen worktop. This was THE material that everyone was raving about back in the post war era, and it can style look stylish in any kitchen setting.
Shop the modern look
Now you know what things to look out for in modern kitchens, why not create one of your own? You’ll find a wide range of superb kitchen worktops direct from HCSupplies. Start on your new kitchen project today!