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The natural
texture of raw
wood creates
interest and
energy.
HOW TO
STRIKE A BALANCE
Contemporary
and Warm
Find the perfect mix of
modern and inviting style
m
This sitting area
brings together an
eclectic mix of styles.
oo
Unique, personal
accents have been
deployed to great
effect here.
o
Contemporary
furniture is accented
by texture galore,
making this room feel
human and lived-in.
B
reaking with tradition is
exhilarating, but sometimes
cutting edge design feels a
little cold and impersonal. There
are ways to ease into contemporary
design, incorporating some of its
sleek materials, glossy finishes, and
minimalist approach while still
retaining the warmth of traditionalism
you crave. Here’s how to indulge your
love of contemporary style without
sacrificing the warmth and comfort
that makes a house a home.
Play with texture
If a room has a lot of neutral colors or
too many similar surfaces, use textured
furnishings and accents to create visual
interest and a lived-in feel. Think tufted
sofas, long pile or heavily patterned
rugs, faux fur throws, raw wood
surfaces, and jute or other natural fiber
floor coverings.
Focus
Build every room around a focal point,
whether it’s a large work of art or a
televison. This prevents the viewer’s
attention from becoming diffused,
which can make them feel uneasy.
Very large rooms can have more than
one focal point.
Mix periods and styles
Don’t feel that your selection of
furnishings and accessories has to
be constrained to the 21st century.
Sometimes, an older piece you truly
love can provide exactly the unique
touch a room needs, and the contrast
— as opposed to clash — of old and
new can be truly refreshing. Consider
reupholstering familiar chairs in a more
contemporary fabric if they really seem
out of place — a simple change of color or
pattern can have a revolutionary effect.
Allow yourself a little clutter
You’ve successfully decluttered, but now
the room looks bare and impersonal.
Create displays or clusters of those
idiosyncratic items that are so you
— keeping them contained rather
than scattering them around is a great
compromise that’s far easier to live with.
When designing a space, be honest
with yourself about how it makes
you feel. Lawrance interior designers
will help you balance contemporary
furnishings with more traditional
design elements if the overall effect isn’t
working for you — after all, the most
carefully curated space in the world is
only doing its job if it makes you happy!
Helpful Tips
1. Tangible results
Use textured furnishings
and accents to create
visual interest.
2. Zone of influence
Add a large bookcase
to define zones and
personalize the room.
3. Into focus
Build every room
around a focal point,
whether it's a TV or
a large work of art.