
Contemporary
CONTEMPORARY
Does anyone know what "contemporary" really means? It can be a bit of a conundrum, but it frees you up to be…you. Contemporary is current and constantly evolving. Today’s definition might be clean lines and smooth surfaces, but tomorrow’s might be different. Contemporary takes a deep breath and relaxes, settling into the groove that is the moment. It can be the sleek shape of a side table and the sofa you happily sink into.


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Contemporary vs. Modern
"Contemporary design evokes the essence of the moment. While it can take inspiration from heritage Modern styles such as Scandinavian, Mid-Century Modern and Art Deco, the aesthetic continually pushes boundaries and defies tradition. Modern design, on the contrary, refers specifically to the design aesthetics of a past era between the 1920s through the 1970s."
- Mollie Hambro, Associate, Trend and Design
Contemporary featured product: Baland Chandelier
Designer Top Picks
Key Contemporary Characteristics

Minimal Accessories
You won’t find a lot of excess here. Contemporary is all about the minimum making a maximum statement. Well-chosen and well-placed accessories allow sophistication to shine.
Maximize Minimalism
Lots of Light
Contemporary looks love layered lighting and the more natural light the better. Big and beautiful plants can be a nice accent, as can accent lighting. Downlights and rail lights can help you showcase photography and art.
Learn To Layer
Mix of textures and materials
Focus on materiality - in both decorative accents and accessories. Natural materials such as warm woods, rattan, marble accents, and organic linens are continuing to trend.
More Ways To Mix
Neutrals with a Splash of Color
Taupe. Cream. Bright white. Let neutrals be the star, and bring in splashes of bright color in a pillow, a piece of art, or maybe even a blooming plant – who doesn’t love a flower?
Shop All Contemporary
The Art of Lighting
The perfect light can elevate a space and set a mood. It can serve as an art form with geometric shapes, curves and distinctive finishes. élan offers all this and more.
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Inspiration
See contemporary spaces from our customers home projects.

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