Contemporary Interior Design: An Ever-Evolving Style

By Toll Brothers 2 minute read

Last updated on April 26th, 2023

Contemporary interior design embraces the now, pulling in on-trend design elements to create spaces that feel fresh and current. This ever-changing style can often be confused with modern design. However, modern design refers to a specific style popularized in the early to mid-twentieth century. In this post, we’ll explore the distinct features of contemporary design and how to achieve it in your new home.

Contemporary kitchen featuring metallic, industrial accent lighting, gray cabinetry, and marble countertops
Viewpoint at Metro Heights by Toll Brothers in Montebello, CA

Hallmarks of Contemporary Interior Design

Contemporary interior design leans more minimalist and embraces simplicity. Neutral-hued walls and furniture make it simple to keep up with contemporary design’s evolving look, which presently favors contrast from colorful art and layered textures. Play up open areas by prioritizing natural light and using statement lighting as accents for an airy feel. Natural wood flooring in a variety of tones works well in achieving a contemporary look.

Light, airy contemporary interior design highlighted by pendant lighting and white walls
Stone Creek at Sammamish by Toll Brothers in Sammamish, WA

Have fun playing with décor and accent pieces, exploring geometric shapes and organic forms in a variety of natural materials such as stone. Mixed metals in kitchen, bath, and lighting fixtures provide a chic contrast to softer elements such as live greenery, cotton textiles, jute rugs, and faux fur blankets.

Contemporary bedroom featuring shiplap walls and outdoor transition
Regency at Caramella Ranch by Toll Brothers in Reno, NV

Making Contemporary Style Yours

Contemporary style is all about implementing the trends you love in a way that works for you. By choosing neutral wall colors and natural wood for flooring and furniture, it’s easy to keep your space looking fresh by switching out rugs, artwork, and other decorative objects and accessories. Playing with unique textures, materials, and pops of color in your décor and accessories can create a unique and dynamic look.

Warm, inviting interior design utilizing white area rug over wood flooring
New Talley Station by Toll Brothers in Decatur, GA

Take cues from Japandi interior design and pare down decorative items to the ones you like best and embrace streamlined storage solutions. Look to Scandinavian and mid-century modern styles for examples of high-quality furniture with simple lines to mindfully fill your space with enduring pieces. For trends that catch your eye but may quickly fade, choose smaller pieces. For instance, a stunning acrylic sculpture may be a better investment than an acrylic coffee table.

Contemporary kitchen design featuring white cabinetry and oversized pendant lighting
Regency at Folsom Ranch by Toll Brothers in Folsom, CA

Be sure to subscribe to the Toll Brothers Build Beautiful blog and visit our Pinterest page to stay up to date on the latest home design trends. With timeless architecture and a wide variety of personalization options at the Toll Brothers Design Studio, Toll Brothers makes it easy to create the contemporary home of your dreams.

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Embracing an unwavering commitment to quality and customer service, Toll Brothers currently builds in over 60 markets in 24 states nationwide, and is a publicly owned company with its common stock listed on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: TOL). In 2024, Toll Brothers marked 10 years in a row being named to the Fortune World's Most Admired Companies™ list.* Toll Brothers has also been named Builder of the Year by Builder magazine and is the first two-time recipient of Builder of the Year from Professional Builder magazine. For more information, visit TollBrothers.com. From Fortune, ©2024 Fortune Media IP Limited. All rights reserved. Used under license.

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