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Have you been enticed by the latest in modern furniture and the uncluttered approach to decorating? The popularity of modern designs in furniture is growing, as can be seen in most retail furniture showrooms. This sleek and sophisticated look may be very appealing, but often creates a somewhat cold, even stark, appearance in your home. The entire room does not have to be modern. Using accessories and accent pieces that are more traditional or completely opposite in style is a great solution.
Eclectic Approach
Mixing contrasting styles is known as “eclectic decorating” and the trend is leaning more in that direction than ever before. This is the perfect way to add personal items and create a home that reflects your interests. Several manufacturers have introduced sofas designed with straight lines, tight backs, no skirt and visible wood legs. A great example of that style is the sofa available in the new collection by Interlude Home, Inc. They also introduced several interesting chairs and ottomans with a modern flair. Most of the modern sofas are being shown in neutral shades such as taupe, off white, brown, creamy golds and sage greens. The fabrics are usually solid colors or subtle tone on tone designs that are geometric. The very brave decorator might opt for the new trendier bold colors available. Dynamic options include black and white damask and Tiffany influenced aqua silk for creating a glamorous approach.
Adding Warmth
There are many outstanding sofa and chair designs that are great examples of this hot new trend. If you have purchased some of these tailored upholstered pieces for the main living area and are wondering how to make it appear cozy and inviting, explore the numerous accessories available. These uncluttered upholstery styles may be a little firmer than some others and it pays to try out any seating before you purchase it, especially if it is to be used on a daily basis. An easy way to make any style sofa more cozy and comfortable is to add soft pillows and throws. Consider bright bold colors and designs to contrast with the tailored sofa. Soft fabrics that work beautifully include chenille, velvet, unusual silks, crewel or needlepoint designs.
Accents and Accessories
To complete the room, consider what style accent tables and accessories would be interesting. Keep in mind that these do not have to be modern, but could be traditional or even oriental designs. There are amazing new lamp styles to choose from, and adding sophisticated lamps will create contrast and personality. Explore lamps made of natural elements such as onyx, blown glass or elegant alabaster for a taste of glamour. Lamp Works is a manufacturer known for incorporating these type of elements into their lamp designs.
The latest introductions of lamp shades have also been given slightly modern updated looks and will compliment most furniture styles. If your taste leans toward a more casual feeling, look at the possibility of wrought iron lamps or rustic wood styles. Anything that looks handmade will add texture and opposing style to modern lines.
Other accessories to consider using with your modern furniture items are large colorful pieces of art. Monet style landscapes or abstract floral art will be good choices for a room that needs a little warmth. Bring in large pottery and dynamic accessories that are unusual and colorful. Area rugs would also be a great way to add warmth and pizzazz to the room. Whatever rug style appeals to you – whether it is traditional, oriental or modern abstract designs – will work as long as the colors compliment the other items. Check out some of the retro styles being recreated, such as the very shaggy textured area rug. This type of area rug would add contrast and warmth to almost any modern style furnishings.
The next time you are furniture shopping and notice new sleek styles, don’t hesitate to add a few pieces to any room in your home. These refreshing modern styles can be mixed with items you already own or other traditional selections. Opposites do attract when it comes to mixing a few quality modern pieces into your home décor.
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