“Less is more” is the popular slogan behind the modernist design movement. Modern home design style often features open living spaces adorned simply with minimal home decor.  Sleek and refined, it relies on making a statement through a few key design choices in construction and selections, with chic finishes like marble, streamlined furniture resembling art, and floor-to-ceiling windows. 

Old Becomes New Again

While the words “modern design” suggest, well, modernity, this trend actually began over a century ago. We can thank the Germans and Scandinavians for introducing the world to minimalistic art, architecture, and design through the Bauhaus movement. Modernism prized functional beauty above all else in the creation of objects that were ornamental and served a purpose. For example, a dining room might feature a simple table with clean lines and no ornamentation. This style experiments with building materials like steel, concrete, and wood for construction and furnishings. 

Mod Monochrome

Ever heard of a “monochromatic color palette”? It might sound like a mouthful, but it describes a color scheme based on the shades of one color. To decorate, pick a base hue along with lighter tones and darker shades of the same color. For example, a modern design style in the living room might use different shades of brown, ranging from rich chocolate to beige. Or try “tints” by adding white to the primary color. Remember, the goal of monochrome isn’t to be blah or boring–it’s a subtle way to make a statement through neutral colors. 

Tactile Textures

Once you’ve chosen a color scheme for your modern design, it’s time to play with textures. Traditionally, it engages the senses: the shine of bright copper, the cool touch of marble, and the earthy sound of wooden floors underfoot. Think kitchen cabinets fitted minimally with chrome hardware, hovering above a countertop made of concrete. Furniture often combines steel and leather, with low silhouettes like floor-grazing couches. Pair these with rugs made of natural materials like jute or wool, and introduce glass elements in coffee table tops, mirrors, and decor to complete the look. 

Elements of Modern Style:

• Chrome finishes
• Clean lines and geometric shapes
• Horizontal and vertical elements
• Natural, minimalistic colors
• Steel, concrete, and glass materials

Palisades Homes

If you’re thinking of building a home with Modern style, contact us at Trilogy. We’d love to show you our version of Modern design and other styles from our Palisades Homes collection. In addition to Modern, these homes come in three other design styles: Coastal, Farmhouse, and Tuscan. Explore these options to find the best match, whether you choose a semi-custom or custom home. 
Contact us here today to learn about this design style and unique floor plans for our Palisades Homes. Ask us for inspiration, or build a Houzz Ideabook to share with us!