Finding a home that checks all the boxes is no easy task. There’s a long list of requirements your new place must meet in order for you to make this big step. One of those requirements has to do with the design style of your new home. Now, you want your home to be practical, but it also needs to fit your idea of “dream home”. For many homeowners, that involves having a home that’s built per modern standards.
The question is, what does “modern” mean exactly? What are the main features of this style? Moreover, how do you implement them to create a home that’s aesthetically pleasing but also great for day-to-day living? Whether you’re looking for some design inspiration to help build a home or are in the process of buying one, here’s a list of five must-have features in a modern home design to keep in mind.
Clutter-free spaces and open-floor plans
One of the most recognizable features that define modern home design is the clutter-free, open-concept floor plan. In fact, this is what really sets modern homes apart from their traditional counterparts. Open floor plans make the home feel airy and spacious because they eliminate visual barriers.
However, there’s much more to replicating that open floor plan feel than knocking down a few walls. These modern spaces are created purposely for entertainment and/or practical day-to-day living, with special attention being given to every nook and cranny. To retain that clear, airy feel, it’s important that these spaces remain clutter-free. Given the multitude of practical storage options available on the market these days, this shouldn’t be too difficult to achieve.
Clean lines and geometric shapes
Modern homes are built with function in mind, and the designs are often devoid of excess ornaments. The accent is placed on clean lines, and the buildings are usually asymmetrical. The modern style also favors the use of a variety of geometric shapes, especially when it comes to the exterior. Builders will often rely on professionals such as pool contractors for simple yet luxurious pool designs to beautify the outdoor area while keeping the rest of the landscape fairly simple.
This tendency towards keeping everything simple and minimalist continues in the indoor space as well. From furnishings and lighting to artwork and wall molding, there are plenty of straight lines and various geometric shapes. All this helps elevate the sense of harmony and balance among the two seemingly separate areas, resulting in an inspiring and welcoming living space.
A neutral, earthy color palette
Aside from relying on minimalism in terms of design, modern style homes also seem to favor a neutral color palette over bolder shades and hues. Elegant and timeless, neutrals such as beige, gray, black, and white enrich modern spaces. Earthy tones are also popular among homeowners who choose to employ this popular design style.
These subtle colors provide a clean, simple backdrop for brighter and bolder accents. These usually come in the form of pattern rugs and accent furnishings, as well as colorful artwork. The neutral theme carries on to the modern buildings’ exterior, with beiges and whites and even bold blacks adorning everything from roof to siding. Staying consistent with color choices helps create a sense of cohesiveness, so the entire home feels more connected.
Natural materials and lighting
Another important thing to mention when talking about modern home design is its tendency to draw inspiration from nature. This is especially evident when it comes to the choice of materials. Modern design heavily relies on the use of natural materials for both interiors and exteriors, employing everything from stone and wood to steel and concrete. It also favors eco-friendly, locally-sourced materials, as this helps lower the overall environmental footprint.
Speaking of staying in touch with Mother Nature, you’ll also notice the modern style’s preference for larger windows and sliding doors. Not only do they help maximize natural light, but they also blur the line between inside and outside. This helps open up the space and ensure everything flows together, sans disruptions.
A minimalist approach to decorating
Last but not least, don’t expect to see too much ornamentation in a modern style home. Excessive decor that doesn’t serve any practical purpose is off limits when it comes to this design style. Instead, a modern home relies on lines, colors, and materials to create visual appeal and draw the eye towards it.
For instance, it will use particular eye-catching architectural elements such as windows or angles to enhance curb appeal. As for the interiors, modern design will rely on textural elements and a mix of materials to draw attention, creating a welcoming atmosphere from the moment you enter the room.
Wrapping up
Simple and sophisticated, the modern home design style offers a variety of options. This makes it a suitable pick for different types of lifestyle. The important thing is to keep things on the minimalist side, stick with essentials, and only bring in add-ons that truly enrich your space and day-to-day life.
