10 tips for modern interior design

Is your home feeling a little dated? Or not quite working out for your lifestyle any more? It might be due for a little glow-up. Modern interior design is all about balancing function and aesthetics. The best spaces feel effortless—timeless, yet in sync with today’s needs. 

Here are 10 key design elements to consider if you want a home that looks contemporary and feels just right.

1. Incorporate natural materials and biophilia

Stone, wood, and natural fibers create a space that feels grounded. Biophilic design, which brings nature indoors, can be as simple as adding houseplants or as involved as integrating a living green wall. Large windows that frame outdoor views or natural light wells can also reinforce this connection to nature. 

Tip: Large-leaf plants, like fiddle leaf figs or rubber plants, add drama without clutter. Consider using natural wood furniture or linen upholstery to enhance the effect.

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2. Go neutral 

White, beige, grays, and warm earth tones provide a clean slate. They make a room feel expansive and work as a perfect backdrop for statement furniture and decor. Modern interiors often use a muted color palette to create a calming and cohesive environment, making it easier to introduce accent colors in a controlled way. 

Tip: If all-neutral feels flat, layer different textures to add depth. Another trick is to use tonal variations of the same color to maintain a harmonious look while keeping things visually interesting.

3. Add smart home technology

A modern home is an efficient home. Smart lighting, integrated sound systems, and automated climate control are convenient and energy efficient. Voice-controlled systems and mobile apps allow you to control everything from security cameras to coffee machines without lifting a finger. Where do we sign up? 

Tip: Start small with a smart thermostat or voice-activated lights. You’ll notice the difference immediately. For a bigger impact, consider integrating a whole-home automation system that synchronizes lighting, climate, and entertainment features.

4. Consider cozy minimalism

Minimalism doesn’t have to feel stark. The key is to pare down excess while keeping warmth and personality in the details, such as soft lighting, plush textiles, and a mix of textures. 

Also, remember to choose quality over quantity. Instead of filling shelves with decorative objects, opt for a few meaningful pieces that make a statement. 

Tip: Choose a few high-quality statement pieces instead of filling a room with decor. Soft area rugs, layered curtains, and textured throws can add warmth to an otherwise simple space.

5. Create warmth with wood paneling

Slatted wood walls and ceiling accents add richness and dimension. Whether it’s a full-paneled feature wall or subtle accents, wood brings warmth without looking heavy. This trend has evolved beyond traditional dark wood paneling, with contemporary styles incorporating lighter tones and vertical slats for a fresh, airy feel. 

Tip: Vertical slats can make a room feel taller, while horizontal slats add a modern, relaxed vibe. Consider using wood paneling in unexpected places, like the ceiling or built-in furniture.

6. Add interest with texture and decorative plaster

Flat, painted walls are fine, but texture adds depth and interest. Plaster, limewash, and subtle stucco finishes create a bespoke, high-end feel. Decorative plaster is making a comeback, bringing old-world charm into modern spaces with an organic, imperfect look. 

Tip: Use a textured finish in a small space, like a powder room or entryway, for maximum impact. If you prefer a more subtle approach, try a feature wall with a soft limewash finish for a muted, natural effect.

7. Wallpaper your ceilings

Ceilings are often overlooked, but a patterned or textured wallpaper can turn them into a statement. Whether it’s a subtle texture or a bold print, ceiling paper makes rooms feel polished and complete. It’s especially effective in spaces where you want to create a sense of drama, like dining rooms or bedrooms. 

Tip: Stick to neutral or muted tones for ceilings unless you want a truly dramatic look. A metallic or pearlescent finish can subtly reflect light, adding depth without overwhelming the space.

Why do people paint their porch ceilings blue?

8. Integrate indoor and outdoor spaces

Blurring the lines between indoor and outdoor living makes a home feel larger and more inviting. Large sliding doors, covered patios, and outdoor kitchens are great ways to connect the two. 

Tip: Keep a consistent flooring material from indoors to outdoors for seamless flow. Consider outdoor furniture that complements your indoor pieces for a cohesive design.

9. Drench in color 

Painting walls, ceilings, trim, and even doors in the same color (known as color drenching) creates a cohesive, enveloping effect. It’s a bold move that makes a space feel intentional and sophisticated. Darker tones, like deep blues or charcoal greys, can add drama, while softer hues create a more relaxing ambiance. 

Tip: Use a matte finish for a softer, more luxurious look. Pair color-drenched walls with natural materials, like wood or stone, to balance the intensity.

10. Add artisanal and handcrafted details

Handmade tiles, custom furniture, and artisanal decor pieces add personality and authenticity. They’re what make a house feel one-of-a-kind. Instead of mass-produced decor, invest in signature pieces that tell a story and showcase craftsmanship. 

Tip: Invest in one standout handcrafted piece, like a ceramic backsplash or a sculptural light fixture, to anchor a space. Consider working with local artisans to find unique, high-quality items that reflect your style.

Keep your home contemporary and inviting 

Thoughtful material choices, smart integrations, and a few bold design moves make all the difference in modern home design. The key is to focus on timeless principles while incorporating new touches that make your home more functional and enjoyable. And, if it’s time for a more extensive change, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the John Merrill Homes team to inquire about our renovation, remodeling, and custom design-build services.

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