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.
Hear from Our Designers
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.
Blog
Find out what's new in lighting and design, hear from designers and other lighting professionals and find fun and informational tips to light up your life.
CATALOGS
Whether you're interested in a certain lighting category or a stylized collection, it's easy and quick to browse products with our interactive catalogs.
