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5 ideas for a more contemporary home

Looking to give your home a modern makeover but don’t know where to start? The good news is, it’s actually very easy to do. From deciding on the right furniture, to choosing your colour palette and accessories, here are our five helpful hints for adding a splash of contemporary flair to your home.

1. Simplicity is key

The modern look rests upon simple, clean lined furniture that follows the ‘form follows function’ rule, and is not unnecessarily ornate. Look out for sofa and chairs with straight lines or simple curves, sleek sideboards with covered drawers to keep clutter out of sight and desks and tables with tripod legs. If you’re choosing a bedroom set, or dining set, go for something co-ordinated and fuss-free for a contemporary finish.

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2. Make a design statement

One thing that stylish and impactful modern homes have in common is beautifully showcased design. Contemporary homes are bold and statement-making. An eye-catching armchair in a funky patterned fabric or a bold, bright colour can instantly transform a lacklustre space into something special. Another effective option is anything curved, architectural or unusual – add that ‘wow’ factor with bucket chairs, statement floor lamps or tables with glass tops and sculptural bases.

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3. Modern metallics

A key trend in interior design over the past few years has been the comeback of shimmering metallic accents – such as copper, gold and chrome – within home accessories. These shimmering tones add a richness to otherwise simple styles and can bring your space to life. Try a statement mirror that shines, or add mood lighting with a chrome or copper finished pendant light, table light or lamp. If you’re feeling daring, you can even choose a metallic rug.

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4. Put your comfort first

Your home should always feel light, fresh and welcoming, and choosing contemporary does mean you have to compromise on comfort. You can create a cosy room with a modern feel, simply by adding some stylish furniture. A welcoming cuddle chair and a bold patterned rug that’s wonderfully soft underfoot will, along with a few striking accessories, bring the look seamlessly together.

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5. Keep it light, airy and open

There’s plenty of ways to make your home feel light and spacious without completely reconfiguring your layout. To keep things airy, decide on a few bold pieces and avoid dark or busy patterns. Glass topped tables create the illusion of more space while carefully placed mirrors reflect light back into a room. A mirror-panelled or high-gloss wardrobe, for example, offers plenty of storage, cleverly reflects the light and makes your space feel larger than it is.

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