Renters Guide to Style: Contemporary

Contemporary style is a terrific choice for renters because you can easily find trendy pieces that make even the stalest space look vibrant. Contemporary style is by definition of-the-moment, so it’s great for renters who aren’t ready to fully commit to a more particular style. A contemporary look is perfect for converted-industrial spaces, which are a hot commodity in the market right now, or for refreshing a dated place with color and modernity.

Mix and match

Contemporary style is all about a mixed aesthetic. This is great news for renters who are on a budget and have pieces from different eras. Metal, wood, lucite, glass… it’s all here in this studio apartment, but clean lines and a tight color palette tie it all together. While the styles of individual pieces vary, they are all chosen deliberately and the space is not overcrowded.

Create open spaces

Even the smallest rental will benefit from creating as much open space as you can. Simplification is key for a contemporary style. In the image above, each piece has room to breathe so the space is not overcrowded. Pare down belongings for a contemporary vibe, or put them away when they aren’t in use. Unless, of course, it warrants being on display, such as the guitar that doubles as décor.

Add color with accessories

The Matisse print, funky lamps, graphic-print chair and pillows all punctuate this otherwise quiet room with contemporary pop. All of these pieces are easily transferable when you move, but make a room with white walls and wood floors come alive with personality. The mix of styles, materials and colors here is a trademark of contemporary style.

Incorporate a bold statement

The focal points in this contemporary apartment space are the floating shelves. Installing them is a do-able project for most renters and shouldn’t make too many holes. Or, one bold piece such as an art wall, a hanging herb garden, or even a piece of unique furniture, could transform a space in a contemporary room. If you are feeling less DIY, plants also bring an air of contemporary style and many renters neglect the visual impact they can make.

Invest in art

These days contemporary style incorporates abstract art that is reminiscent of modern style but in bright colors and with a looser hand. Hanging up a piece of “real” art is one of the quickest ways to turn a “blah” rental space into a “wow” contemporary space. It needn’t be gallery-worthy pieces with price tags to match, but more than posters held up with sticky putty. Don’t be afraid to make a few holes in the walls; patching them up is easy.

Layer textures

Contemporary style is all about artistically layering and mixing various textures. This bed is a perfect example: a pleated duvet, layers of pillows and blankets, and a tufted headboard. While the mix is eclectic, the overall effect is contemporary, particularly when tied together with a cohesive color palette and graphic elements.

Play with pattern

No, these aren’t the days of chintz-on-chintz — we’re talking contemporary pattern used in unexpected ways. This floor-to-ceiling shower curtain in an updated design is only accessory required to make this classic bathroom contemporary. Again, clutter-free surfaces and only a few things to attract the eye are paramount in contemporary style.

Top image from Zillow listing.