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'Soft Modern' Style Offers Best of Both Worlds
Mix in a few curves and soft colors but nix the clutter, and the happy result is a balanced new take on modern design
Houzz Contributor. I love interior design and all things houses. It has been my great privilege to create spaces over the last eleven years to a varied and loyal clientele.
Houzz Contributor. I love interior design and all things houses. It has... More »
Defined by straight lines, neutral colors and minimal ornamentation, modern style can split a crowd in two. Some embrace the style and can't imagine their environments without it. Others consider it cold and want nothing to do with it.
A modern aesthetic can even define a lifestyle, with its strict no-clutter policy. That's the tricky part for me: the no-clutter part. I love stuff and will always have special things in my home that remind me of good times. I consider minimalism to be somewhat of a bummer. However, one can definitely go overboard with stuff.
I've noticed some great spaces on Houzz that manage to strike a happy balance by warming up the cold and presenting a very thoughtful mix of well-curated details without clutter. I call this "soft modern," and it works with many different styles of architecture. See how Houzz designers are mixing curved edges with straight lines, pairing colorful pattern with neutrals and leading the charge of the no-clutter nation.
A modern aesthetic can even define a lifestyle, with its strict no-clutter policy. That's the tricky part for me: the no-clutter part. I love stuff and will always have special things in my home that remind me of good times. I consider minimalism to be somewhat of a bummer. However, one can definitely go overboard with stuff.
I've noticed some great spaces on Houzz that manage to strike a happy balance by warming up the cold and presenting a very thoughtful mix of well-curated details without clutter. I call this "soft modern," and it works with many different styles of architecture. See how Houzz designers are mixing curved edges with straight lines, pairing colorful pattern with neutrals and leading the charge of the no-clutter nation.
by Amy Lau Design
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I love this space. With mostly straight lines, all the pieces feel very clean and modern. The great contrast of the wood table and grass cloth against the stark white sideboard are very pleasing to the eye. To further soften this modern look, an organic wood lamp is paired with the sideboard. Notice how the elegant chandelier is a sharp contrast to the squared-off edges of the table.
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| The core pieces in this space feel modern, from the oak canopy bed to the iconic Hans Wegner Papa Bear Chair. However, the blue color of the suede wallpaper and billowy curtains soften this dreamy modern bedroom. |
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The geometric profile of the occasional table paired with the overscale abstract art resonates modern. The colorful palette of the art and accessories creates a softer, more approachable overall style.
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| The classic modern architecture of this space is punctuated by the colorful zigzag pattern of the rug. Jewel tones are pulled from the rug and repeated in the throw pillows. Although this space doesn't read as quiet, it still feels modern and sleek. Get Floored By a Bold Area Rug |
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| Just the simple addition of the organic wood stool and the orange throw pillows makes this space feel soft and textured despite the otherwise modern, neutral palette. |
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by Amy Lau Design
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| In this great bedroom the classic, modern lines of the beds and nightstand are softened by the splash of citron everywhere. Without this powerful color or coordinating accessories, the space would feel more minimalist and not as interesting. Throwing in a punchy color is one easy way to soften modern details. |
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| I love this sleek space. Again the modern lines and shapes in the cabinetry and tile are softened by the finish on the rift-cut oak cabinets. The soft, driftwood feel of the finish is a great contrast to all the squared-off angles. |
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by Amy Lau Design
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| Geometrics typically read as modern. But with the addition of sheer curtains and organic-shape furniture, and with minimal clutter, the overall effect here is soft modern. |
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The sitting area in this master bedroom is graced with the classic Arco Lamp from Design Within Reach. This typically modern light of metal and stone is softened with the curves of the chair and table. A soft palette of sky blue, chartreuse and plum further soften the dreamy mood.
Tell us: Would you consider a soft modern style for your home? Let me know your thoughts in the Comments section.
More:
So Your Style Is: Midcentury Modern
So Your Style Is: Transitional
Tell us: Would you consider a soft modern style for your home? Let me know your thoughts in the Comments section.
More:
So Your Style Is: Midcentury Modern
So Your Style Is: Transitional
Ideabook updated on April 30, 2012.
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Recently saw a good example of this; the Hubbard & Cravens Coffee Shop in Indianapolis. Counters and cabinets were quarter-sawn oak, caesarstone and brushed aluminum, all done in rich "traditional" colors but with TOTALLY modern lines. On the walls they used olive greens that complimented the red-browns of the quarter-sawn oak along with fresh sparkling whites and soothing greys. I was really impressed. The whole look was intensely modern, intelligent, and fresh yet had a distinctly classic vibe to it.
cninteriors@yahoo.com
One day, when I win the lottery, I will personally drive to Dallas and bring her to my home so she can work her magic.
Charmean Neithart