American homeowners spent over $170 billion dollars on remodeling in 2018. But, renovating is a hassle, not to mention expensive.
Are you looking for less expensive ways to update and modernize your home? There are lots of things you can do without breaking the bank.
Take a look at these 10 interior design tips for incorporating a modern flair into your decor.
A Little History
What is modern decor? It comes from mid-century modern designers such as Charles and Ray Eames. From the 1940s to the 1960s, the design look took a relaxed turn.
Strong lines and lots of space took center stage. Designers also took advantage of existing structural elements in a building. Exposed plumbing, beams, and bricks became part of the design.
More and different materials came into use. Plastic, fiberglass, and plexiglass became commonplace for furniture and accessories.
So what can you do to give your space a cool modern look?
1. Change the Lights
Lighting plays an important role in the look and feel of your home. If your table lamps are big and heavy, swap them for something sleek and airy.
But don’t stop there. Pendant lights and chandeliers can also get an updated look. Try cool geometric shapes and sculptural glass shades.
2. Create Space
Lots of space highlights sleek, bold lines. If your home is old with lots of partitioned areas, take a wall down. Most people aren’t using dining rooms anymore.
Can you create a large open space by tearing down a dining room wall?
If tearing down a wall is beyond your budget, think about other ways of creating space. Swap big heavy pieces of furniture for something lighter and more modern.
3. A Pop of Color
A monochromatic color scheme evokes mid-century modern design. And a fresh paint job always adds value to your home.
Stick with soft, light colors to make the room feel larger. But don’t be afraid of adding an accent wall with a bright pop of color.
Are the bedroom walls white? Paint a turquoise accent wall behind the bed. And echo the color in your bed’s decorative pillows.
4. Change the Window Treatments
Modern designers used big supporting beams to allow for whole walls of windows across the back of a home. They often didn’t bother with window treatments. Instead, they opted to let as much light in as possible.
Don’t have huge walls of windows? Don’t despair. But, do get rid of heavy draperies and blinds. Let natural light in as much as possible.
If you need window treatments for privacy, use opaque white blinds that let the light in. Or use soft light-colored sheer panels.
5. Choose a Statement Piece or Two
There are some great modern statement pieces. Try a knock-off George Nelson clock on the wall.
If you’ve got a little money to spare, get some Eero Saarinen “Tulip” chairs and a matching table.
For the living room, try a classic rosewood Eames lounge chair. Or go with a Mies van der Rohe lounge chair.
For a modern look, the furniture is simple and elegant. Avoid fancy, heavy pieces.
There are no decorative touches when it comes to modern furniture. Think simple, elegant, sleek, with geometric shapes and clean lines. Modern decor doesn’t include tassels, ruffles, or fringe.
You won’t find carved details or big wood pieces.
6. Use Mirrors
Make a small room feel spacious with mirrors. Tilt a giant mirror against the wall. Or hang a gallery of smaller mirrors.
Mirrors come in so many styles, shapes, and finishes. You’re sure to find one or more that give your home a modern touch.
If possible, hang mirrors so they catch and reflect the natural light coming into the room.
7. Try a Modern Bed
How do you modernize the bedroom? Try one of these contemporary round beds! You’ll feel like James Bond with one of these in the room.
Pair it with neutral bedding and mirrored accessories.
8. Update Cabinets
A new set of kitchen cabinets can add up to thousands of dollars. But there’s no need to invest in a whole new set of cabinets. All you need are new drawer pulls and knobs.
There are thousands of different styles and finishes from which to choose.
If you’re having trouble deciding, buy one or two samples. Bring them home and put them on the cabinets for a few days.
Which one do you like best? Once you decide, go back and buy enough for the whole kitchen.
The bathroom is another place where new drawer pulls and knobs bring an updated look.
9. Update the Porch
Don’t ignore the big beautiful porch or backyard patio. Bring your life outside with a porch or patio re-do.
Even if you don’t have a porch, don’t overlook the outdoor space. Have a tiny backyard? No problem. Add a small firepit table with surrounding chairs.
Add a few strings of outdoor lights. Surround the area with potted plants.
Want an even fancier outdoor space? Put down some pavers to define a space. Add a pergola. Hang some outdoor curtains from the sides.
You can even add an outdoor heater for chilly evenings! These small additions add value and beauty to your home.
10. The Little Details
Don’t forget the small stuff. When was the last time you changed the street numbers on the front of your house?
For a modern look, install big numbers in a modern font. Sans serif face font and Microgramma are two examples.
And don’t forget to update the mailbox!
Interior Design Tips for Modern Home Decor
With these interior design tips, you don’t have to spend a fortune on renovating. Remove clutter and any heavy, carved, decorative furniture. No tassels or fringe.
Try a modern bed or other statement pieces of furniture.
Create space by rearranging and adding mirrors. Take down dark, decorated draperies and let in the natural light. Add a few modern lamps and light fixtures.
Change out drawer pulls and knobs in the kitchen and bathrooms.
Stick with monochromatic paint colors, but add an accent wall if you need a pop of color. And don’t forget the small details.
Follow these tips and you’re on your way to a fun new modern look! Look for more home improvement tips here.
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