Trend Focus: Modernism In Interior Design

By Ana Zuravliova

Trend Specialist at Blinds Direct

Fri 4 Jun 2021

While everyone who’s ever existed will have thought of themselves as modern at one time or another, Modernism in interior design is a particularly interesting trend with a history that now spans generations. There have been iterations of Modernism in art, architecture and even food but today, we’ll be exploring how to introduce this exciting way of living into your interior design.

What is modernism?

Modernism is grounded in a philosophical perspective that describes a utopian view of life, society, and human progression.

Emerging during the late 19^th century, Modernism sought to shake off the confines of what it saw as an obsolete past and encourage innovation and new ways of thinking. In the art world it led to schools including Bauhaus, Cubism and Surrealism while equally imaginative Modernist innovations have been tried in the culinary world.

In 2021, we can appreciate these things but would most of us want such weird and wonderful things everyday? Probably not.

Fortunately, Modernism in interior design is far more reserved than melting clocks and lobster phones without compromising its cool, innovative feeling.

How to create Modernism in interior design

Modernist interior design is less about craziness and more about delicate expressive statements. The core of this school of design is sleek crisp lines coupled with uncomplex colour palettes.

Neutral, calming colours are the perfect addition to Modernist space, especially rich grey tones. Where possible, avoid using patterns however the occasional small item such as a lampshade or cushion in a geometric monochrome style won’t dispel the magic.

Sleek lines and right angles galore are also important considerations for a Modernist-inspired space. Angular sofas and tables are excellent options but what about your windows?

For the best effect in adding Modernist chic to your windows, look at more angular options. Roller blinds and Roman blinds work well but don’t forget to consider vertical blinds or especially panel blinds. Panel blinds are a great choice because of their sheer scale. The size of the slats make them feel very contemporary and innovative which is exactly what we’re looking for in a Modernist room.

Which materials work for Modernist interior design

In addition to shapes and colours, material should also be a core consideration in a Modernist inspired space. Materials need to look study, high-quality and durable. Natural woods, metals and stone are usually frowned upon in this trend however glass, steel and concrete are fantastic additions to a Modernist space.

Since the philosophical underpinning is to break norms and use man made materials, you can also look to recycled products and take a look at our sustainable design blog for more tips and inspiration on this.

Dumping plastic bottles into the sea and into landfill is a great example of the obsolete past we referenced above. Using a material for a blind that’s been woven out of recycled material is both modern and Modernist in equal measure, while maintaining the sleek shapes inherent in this design trend.

To help you in your quest to enjoy Modernism in your interior design, we’ve created a special collection that showcases some of the many options at your disposal on the website. Shop the Modernist Collection today!