While modern interior design shares similarities with contemporary style, there are key differences that set contemporary home decor apart.
On top of clean lines and some borrowed elements from modernism, contemporary interior design is defined by a distinct, of-the-moment feel that is always changing and evolving to reflect current trends and what is happening today. Basically, contemporary design embraces simplicity and functionality while allowing for a dynamic, ever-evolving aesthetic that keeps it fresh and relevant to the latest trends.
Contemporary style interiors are characterised by a balanced use of neutral, greige, and taupe paint colours that makes the home feel welcoming, complemented by splashes of more vibrant colour tones. Clean and simplistic colours like white, black, and grey are also popular in this decorating style, contributing to a sleek and sophisticated look.
When selecting colours, it’s important to keep in mind that the overall look should be sleek, simple, and carefully curated.
Using natural materials such as wood, stone, and metal further enhances the contemporary aesthetic, adding texture and organic elements to the space. This blend of simplicity, functionality, and natural beauty defines the contemporary style, making it both inviting and visually appealing.
A contemporary colour scheme often begins with the timeless appeal of classic greys. By utilising a variety of grey shades with similar undertones — either warm or cool — you can create a sophisticated and cohesive look. Darker greys are perfect for adding depth and a sense of drama to a room, while lighter tones on ceilings can open up the space, making it feel larger and more airy. The mantra “less is more” is central to contemporary style, and this is particularly true when working with greys. The sleek and simple nature of grey allows it to serve as a versatile backdrop, enhancing the clean lines and minimalist aesthetic that defines contemporary interiors.
cobweb glow
3785
baked clay
N 3154D
Berry Scent
serendipitous
N 1926D
Black Swan
N 2044A
Berry Scent
OW 2189P
Rare Talent
N 1927T
Painted Frame
N 1904A
Berry Scent
Braintree Road
N 1920T
Gray Dawning
N 1921P
Berry Scent
For a contemporary interior that feels both spacious and inviting, you may start with light off-whites as the foundation of your colour scheme. These hues are excellent at reflecting natural light, which enhances the sense of openness and airiness in a room. To add warmth and prevent the space from feeling too stark, consider incorporating a touch of light beige or taupe. This subtle infusion of colour adds a gentle, inviting warmth to the off-white base.
Complement this palette with light wood tones in furniture, which mirrors the warmth of the off-whites and further contributes to a cohesive, serene environment.
ivory charm
3502
Bluebell White
N 3056P
orange originality
AC 2057A
Angelic Pink
OW 1029P
Nude Shades
YO 1251P
Shipsgate
walden white
OW 1010P
mansion gold
YO 1254D
Berry Scent
hush white
OW 1003P
country maple
N 1877D
Berry Scent
To infuse your contemporary space with a touch of personality, consider going beyond traditional white walls with cool-toned pastels. Pale blues, soft greens, and delicate lavenders add subtle colour without overwhelming the clean, minimalist aesthetic. These gentle hues can introduce a sense of calm and tranquility while maintaining the sleek simplicity characteristic of contemporary design.
Incorporate pastels through soft washes on walls or geometric accents in decor to achieve a refined contemporary touch.
Cool Drift
OW 1064P
Garden Dust
N 1913P
Quaker Gray
N 2005P
Stone Green
1762
Toasted Almond
N 3132T
Natural Cedar
N 1878T
Cosy candy colours like dusty pink or creamy yellows bring a soft touch to any living space. These subtle paint colours add subtle colour to contemporary spaces, making kitchens or living rooms more inviting, or adding more comfort to bedrooms. Whether used as accent colours in textiles, art, or decor, these warm muted pastels bring a refreshing yet understated vibrancy to your interior, enhancing the space with a modern and stylish flair.
angelic pink
OW 1029P
green montage
BGG 1752
Berry Scent
Sweet Wreath
OW 1041P
Mountain Haze
N 1894P
Burnt Ashes
N 1917T
Soft Tissue
OW 1011P
Oak Parquet
N 1870D
Young Shepherd
BGG 1766
To achieve a harmonious contemporary style interior, keep the overall paint colour scheme light, creating a bright and airy atmosphere with soft colours. More importantly, don’t shy away from adding character to your spaces with carefully chosen decorative extras and art that set your home apart! These elements can provide a personal touch while maintaining the modern finish characteristic of contemporary style.
Snap, upload, and Colour Match! Take a picture and upload it to our Colour Match tool to identify the closest Nippon Paint colour that it matches.
Note: The colour shades displayed are indicative and not precise representations of our actual paint colours.
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