Modern design originated at the turn of the century and embodies simple geometric shapes, clean lines, and a general sense of minimalism.

It conforms to the motto of ''form follows function'', rejecting the heavy textures and dark or dramatic elements that were found in previous designs, like Gothic or Victorian styles.

If you find yourself wanting more modern elements in your home’s design, then you’ve come to the right place…

And we’ve got 8 steps to help get you there!

1. Simplify and Reduce

Interior design can be hard, especially if you don’t know where to start. That’s why we’re beginning with the easiest step towards modern home design: simplify and reduce.

The key to embracing modern design begins with paring down what you already have.

Before adding anything new, take inventory of what you already own. Get rid of anything that’s not useful, you don’t like, or that doesn’t fit your current design sense.

Reduce the noise in your room by keeping only what you absolutely love and need. You’ll be surprised as to how quickly you can transform your space by doing just this single step.

2. Go Neutral, Not Boring

One of the selling points of modern design is its simplicity. The same holds true for the color scheme.

White, beige, and earthy tones really encapsulate the style. But don’t think that automatically translates to boring.

While modern design calls for a neutral color palette, you are most definitely able to incorporate pops of color through artwork, furniture, or accent pieces.

And if you choose to use a bold color in your design, just be sure to use it sparingly so it remains a focal point. This can help break up the neutral palette (if necessary) while adding a little personality.

3. Don’t Be Afraid of Blank Space

This step is a great follower to the first because it allows some breathing space in your design.

Sometimes it’s easy to get swept up in a decorating project that we overthink, overfill, and overdo.

What you choose to put in your room is just as critical as what you choose not to.

Negative space can be an amazing addition to a more modern home design. Just remember to make it intentional.

If you have an open floor plan, for example, delineate the space of your dining area and living room and allow for some breathing room between them.

You can also cluster decor around a focal point. The trick to this is keeping items closer together than you normally would and freeing up the space around it. This can make a room feel bigger and more open.

4. Mix And Match

A modern design doesn’t mean that everything in the space has to be exclusively modern—unless you want it to be!

Feel free to mix and match a little here. It’s your space and as long as you’re decorating with pieces you love, it’s OK to add some eclectic elements.

5. Choose Furniture With Clean Lines

Avoid furniture that has too many embellishments and stick with low-profile, clean lines. Uncomplicated is the key here.

Remember, modern furniture relies on simple geometric shapes and an overall minimalist design. It’s also all about the material—think metal, wood, plastic, or glass.

Have fun with this step because you can find modern pieces in some unlikely places if you know what characteristics to look for.

6. Experiment With Shape

Modern furniture maintains sleek and clean lines, but aside from that, your options are pretty endless. That means you can mix and match different geometric shapes with curves or straight line furniture.

Try spherical light fixtures with oval tables and crisp rectangular sideboards.

It doesn’t all have to be the same shape, but your choices should inform each other as you go along so there is some harmony among the pieces.

7. Take A Risk And Go Bold 

Because the hallmark of modern design is simplicity and minimalism, any deviation from that in your room’s style is sure to stand out.

But that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t deviate!

In fact, making a few bold design choices is welcome. Don’t be afraid to take risks or make mistakes.

The process of design is fluid and you can always scrap ideas that don’t work and try again.

8. Add Some Modern Art

If you’ve really honed in on your modern design skills, then your space might be looking pretty close to perfect. So why not add the cherry on top with some modern wall art?

In this final step, choose sleek, sculptural art pieces that pair well with the rest of your space.

But don’t just pick something because it’s modern or you’ll quickly realize the charm fades. Find art that truly moves you.

And the best part is there’s no shortage of modern art out there to choose from. So have fun with this step and let your gut guide you.

The Takeaway

We hope you enjoyed this 8 step guide to a more modern home design!

Embrace your modern sensibilities but always remember the most important step of all—make the space feel like yours. If you can manage that, you will always love your home.

Happy home decorating!