While many think of "modern" interiors as cold and uncomfortable, contemporary design style provides a more comfortable version of the modern aesthetic. Contemporary design is an excellent place to begin if you're interested in finding inspiration for minimalist but welcoming décor. To use this design style in your own home, here are some ideas to help:
Color is key to achieving contemporary design in your own space. The main colors used in contemporary design are white, black and neutrals. However, it's important to add in bolder colors through details like accessories, wall décor and textiles. Paint your walls in a basic neutral to give you the freedom of a comfortable but open canvas. Black accents can ground the space and give it depth while maintaining the balance between neutrals and brighter colors lets you stretch your creativity.
Contemporary furniture is bold but simple. Opt for pieces lacking decoration and embellishment. Choose angular lines and edges rather than curves for your furniture, and be careful not to clutter a space. Less is more in modern interiors, and contemporary design is no exception. This concept applies to patterns and décor as well as your furniture: avoid florals and fringe and stick to structural, basic silhouettes.
Track and recessed lighting are excellent ways to light a contemporary space. Consider installing indirect lighting in these or other methods to bathe the space in light without glare. You can use spotlights to highlight specific art pieces or other wall décor if you want to encourage focus. However, keeping your light bright but indirect will keep the more contemporary feeling of open simplicity. For finishes and materials, choose natural wood, matte black or metal. If framing art, keep the frames subtle so as to not overshadow the art itself.
These are just a few ways to bring contemporary design into your own home. Use them as a starting point and create a contemporary space unique to your taste and needs.
Teresa's beginnings were at Fort Belvoir, Virginia. She was child #5 of 8 and born into an Air Force family that moved all over the United States but usually ended up back in the Washington, D.C. area. Teresa attended Miami University in Oxford, Ohio and received her bachelor's degree in business from George Mason University, in Fairfax, Virginia. Some of her prior careers include: computer buyer in Fairfax, Virginia; Deputy Clerk at the U.S. District Court in Denver, Colorado; Police Officer in Steamboat Springs, Colorado; and Bed & Breakfast owner in Stowe, Vermont. Teresa obtained her license as a Realtor® in 1998. She has been through many ups and downs in this profession and continues to learn every day. She very much enjoys the real estate profession and the wonderful people she has met and assisted along the way. In order to serve her clients and customers, Teresa continually attends classes and seminars. Some of her Designations and Certifications include:
Teresa has also served and continues to serve on several boards:
In 2007, Teresa was named Vermont Realtor of the Year.Teresa and her husband, a local attorney, moved to Stowe in 1987. They had two sons and Stowe has been their home for the past 36 years. She still feels the Stowe area is a wonderful place to raise a family, there's always something going on. Teresa can often be found behind the lens of her camera documenting the beauty of the area and its many events.As an update, Teresa's older son is now a Doctor/resident at the University of New Mexico's Emergency Management Program. Her younger son graduated from James Mason University and currently resides in Chicago, IL as a supervisor for OKTA.