Style Defined: What's Modern?

What defines modern style? If you’re talking about a design era, then Modern refers to a movement that began at the turn of the 20th Century, marked by minimalism, clean lines and geometric elements. Historical modernism heralded a turn away from the traditional styles of architecture and décor that ranged from fanciful and rococco to carved and curvy – think fluted columns and cabriole shapely legs on furniture.  

When we talk about modern style, we’re referring more closely to less adornment – flat panel cabinet doors and clear horizontal and vertical lines. Think of countertop edges that are eased – square on all four sides – or bullnose – rounded but without fluting or layered edges. Another hot look for modern style kitchens is the waterfall edge – with the stone slab covering the top and sides (like a waterfall). Hardware is less ornate, too – again think clean lines – vertical, horizontal. channel or none at all.

Wayland kitchen with a modern waterfall edge on the island.

Modern materials

One of the signature elements of modern style began with natural materials – wood, stone, metal and hues that were more earth toned. Modern colors have evolved over time. In fact, modern kitchens run the gamut of the color spectrum from cool tones of white, blue, gray, taupe and metallics to the warmer tones of chocolate brown, coral and red. Since 2000, bright colors like acid green, tart yellow, turquoise and dramatic black have been used in modern kitchens and baths. Appliance companies like Smeg and BlueStar have introduced products in a range of hues.

Glass is another material that has been adopted as a modern design staple, whether in tile, countertop materials or cabinet door inserts. Wall-hung vanities, acrylic, vessel trough sinks, and glass shower enclosures are common elements in modern bathroom design. Zero-radius sinks and tubs as well as deep, acrylic freestanding or alcove rectangular and oval bathtubs are also hallmarks of modern design.

Do Modern and Contemporary Mean the Same Thing?

We’re often asked if modern and contemporary mean the same thing? The answer is yes and no. Contemporary decor is anything current – what’s happening now. That can be in a modern style, but it can also be in a transitional style or what we call the new traditional style. We’ll be exploring the characteristics of those design styles in our next two blog posts. 

If you’re unsure of your style preference, the KitchenVisions team will guide you. Our goal is to create the best solution for your design aesthetic!