Modern Warms Up In These 6 Great Homes
Tour some inspiring contemporary houses infused with character and comfort
A common misconception is that modern and contemporary homes are stark and cold. Nothing could be further from the truth; this architecture may encourage one to cut down on clutter, but rustic accents, hand-me-down furniture, warm wood finishes and soft upholstery add comfort and warmth to these spaces.
1. Cottage grows up in San Francisco: Rustic cedar gets a fresh look from a light stain on this home's exterior. The owners built up instead of out to preserve the wooded garden and feeling of a private oasis. The result celebrates modern design while keeping some of the ad-hoc character they liked about the old place.
Soft textures, a large area rug underfoot and pops of throw pillow colors create a comfortable family room. Views out to the treetops bring nature indoors.
Having a contemporary home does not mean you need to 86 your traditional pieces. This rustic table is a family hand-me-down that adds character to the dining area.
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2. Nestled in the landscape in Sonoma, California: This eco-friendly home was crafted with the site and surrounding landscape in mind; the design was shifted to fit into the land rather than altering the land to fit the house.
Large contemporary windows let in the view while wood floors, wood trimwork and well-worn oriental rugs add comfort and a sense of history.
Concrete countertops, wood cabinets and unique earth-toned tiles create a wonderful modern-rustic mashup in the kitchen.
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3. Incognito contemporary in the Berkshires: This home is down a woodsy dirt road, where most of the homes are modest 2-3 bedroom one-story cabins. The owners created a street facade that blends in with the forest.
Meanwhile, the lakefront side of the home is completely open and contemporary, filled with mid-century furnishings combined with antique oriental rugs and folk art.
The master bedroom is clean and white, and gets a huge jolt of energy from the pop floral UNIKKO Marimekko duvet cover.
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4. A bungalow renovation in Mill Valley, California: This 1,500-square-foot home was opened up to create a more contemporary feel, but wood and stone materials add a strong contrast to the white painted drywall.
Accents like this stone fireplace surround bring organic elements indoors. Meanwhile, architectural choices like barn doors on a track add a primitive vibe; painting them white keeps things fresh.
Stainless steel finishes and crisp white cabinets are balanced by farmhouse bin pulls, rough-hewn timber beams and primitive Toledo stools.
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5. A cheery beach cottage in Seaview, Washington: A wall of salvaged wood pieces provides a rustic backdrop for mid-century modern Eames shell chairs.
A faux-bois bedspread rendered as a modern graphic print in a bold color typifies the modern/rustic mix.
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6. Innovative efficiency in Austin, Texas: This contemporary home prioritized energy-efficiency and affordability. On the exterior, honey cypress wood accents warm up the Hardiplank siding and corrugated roof.
A permanent walnut room divider, cork flooring and Danish modern chairs add warm touches to the light and open space.
The master bedroom opens up to the yard, and curly branches bring another bit of nature indoors. Luxe bedding with hints of metallics make the room serene, relaxing and anything but cold.
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Design Details: Rustic Beams
See the rest of this home
More:
Guest Picks: Uncle Beefy's Eclectic Woodland Retreat
Winter Woodsy Gets an Update
Design Details: Rustic Beams