Tuesday, September 2, 2008

Modern Design Features Clean Lines

By Johnathan Bakers


The rise of technology has affected every aspect of life. The surge of the internet and other technological innovations has even affected interior design. You don't necessarily want that plasma television surrounded by the frayed and rumpled country dcor. Here's how to get that high tech look in your home.

Modern, contemporary interiors emphasize clean lines. Get rid of the ruffled pillows and overstuffed chairs. Mount your television on an anchored steel or glass pedestal or hang it on a wall stud.

If you have the funds, go for new furniture. Black leather seating always looks right. If you prefer color, go for red, orange or even lime green. Accent these with muted purples, grays or dark browns. Modern and contemporary does not have to mean dark and ominous.

Most people are surprised to learn that wood furniture can still work in a modern room. As long as you keep the lines clean and simple and don't use pieces that have claw feet or other fancy Old World details, a wooden table can work very well in your modern room.

To contrast with the sleek look, incorporate some textural patterns: Use a subtle pinstripe in upholstery fabric. Try a nubby weave in the carpeting or on a comfortable throw. Such textures will keep a modern interior from looking cold and sterile. Use large throw pillows that can be great for extra seating at casual parties. These are available in extra soft micro fiber fabrics that feel wonderful on the skin.

As decorative accents use geometric shapes such as mirrors on you walls. A glass tabletop with its shine can emphasize the smooth, sleek look you are going for. In your cabinetry, try to avoid drawer pulls or handles and use recessed handles instead. If you can't afford to throw out your current cabinetry, replace the drawer pulls with a simple, smooth metallic version.

In order to pull off a modern look in your home, make sure you incorporate some personal elements so your living room doesn't look like an office reception area. Pictures of family and friends in brushed metal frames will add a personal look. Or use your television system as a giant slide project that continuously displays favorite photographs.

One last note: get rid of the clutter. A modern look just will not tolerate piles of paperwork and clothes lying in heaps. Creating a modern look is a great reason to sort through your clutter. Toss it or give it away. Stash what you must keep out of the way.

Contemporary home interiors look great with all the new technology. Just eliminate any fussy details in your dcor and you will find that the new flat screen television works very well in your home.

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