Share This On Social

1. Is Your Color Palette Minimal Yet Impactful?

Modern spaces thrive on simplicity, but that doesn’t mean boring. Stick to a clean palette of three colors: a dominant neutral (think warm putty or crisp white), a complementary secondary tone (like deep navy or sage green), and a bold accent (metallic gold, matte black, or even a pop of burnt orange). This 60/30/10 approach ensures your room feels harmonious and elevated.

Modern living room using 600-30-10 rule and pop-of-color.

Marin Independent Journal

2. Are Patterns Subtle and Strategic?

Patterns in modern interiors are less about layering and more about deliberate placement. A sleek geometric rug paired with textured monochromatic curtains creates just enough interest without overwhelming the space. Aim for one or two bold patterns and let subtle textures do the rest of the talking.

Striped living room rug in modern living room.

Elle Decor

3. Does Texture Create Depth?

Modern design doesn’t have to feel cold or stark. Add warmth with textures that invite touch—think bouclé chairs, smooth leather ottomans, or a nubby wool rug. The contrast between sleek surfaces and tactile materials makes modern spaces feel luxe and livable.

Boucle dining chairs in a modern dining room.

Homary

4. Is There a High-Gloss or Reflective Finish?

Every modern space needs a little shine. Polished metals, mirrored surfaces, and glossy accents play with light and create dimension. Picture a brushed brass coffee table, a sculptural chrome lamp, or glossy black cabinetry—they’re functional and striking.

Glam home office.

DigsDigs

5. Is Nature Part of the Design?

Modern interiors embrace biophilic design by bringing the outdoors in. Real plants add vibrancy, soften hard edges, and create a connection to nature. Sleek planters with architectural greenery like a fiddle-leaf fig or a spiky sansevieria bring life to any space. Bonus: they boost your air quality too.

Modern planters with real plants for the living room.

west elm

6. Does the Space Feel Balanced?

Never overstyle a modern space. For modern interiors balance is the backbone. Negative space isn’t just an afterthought—it’s a feature. Leave room for your eye to breathe with uncluttered surfaces and thoughtfully curated decor. A well-edited space feels calm and purposeful.

Scandanavian interior design living room.

BoldRM

7. Is Black Creating Contrast?

In a modern home, no matter the color palette, you need one black item. Black is your grounding element. A matte black faucet, a sleek picture frame, a minimal vase, or a bold dining chair—black adds depth and sharpens the overall look. It’s the anchor that gives your space a contemporary edge.

Modern bedroom with touch of black.

Pottery Barn

Bring It All Together

These seven elements are the foundation of modern interior design. By focusing on thoughtful color palettes, curated textures, and balanced spaces, you’ll create a home that’s beautiful, balanced, and distinctly yours.

Need help to achieve the perfect modern look? Book a complimentary consultation and let our designers help.

You may also like

Art for interior design

The 10 Biggest Decorating Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

We’ve all had that moment—standing in the middle of a room, staring at it, knowing ...
Read More
Modern living room using 600-30-10 rule and pop-of-color.

The 7 Questions Designers Ask to Nail Modern Interiors

1. Is Your Color Palette Minimal Yet Impactful? Modern spaces thrive on simplicity, but that ...
Read More

Cut the Excess: 8 Modern Decluttering Tips for a Stylish Start This New Year

The new year is here, bringing the promise of fresh starts and clean slates. Isn’t ...
Read More
Search

Related Post

2-weeks to a
modern design
inspired by you