The terms “modern” and “contemporary” by definition are very similar. Both refer to ‘something of the present time’. However in design, the two are slightly different.
You are out shopping for a new home. After walking through dozens of showhomes, making notes and doing your best to be an educated buyer, you decide on a home builder you feel understands your needs and does great work. After selecting your lot and working through the details of the floorplan, you make an appointment with the cabinet designer.
You know exactly what you want—the sixth showhome you viewed, with the fresh, clean and simple cabinetry. The whole space felt bright and inspiring. You take out your notes and sit down.
“I want exactly what is in the Showhome in Heritage Point.” Your designer nods and starts pulling down the samples that match the showhome. You notice right away that there are some alternatives in the Superior showroom. You add, “could I include something like this?” as you point to a bright red feature cabinet that hangs over a range.
As you begin going through your selections and layout, you realize that you’re not sure how to describe what it is you like. You keep using the word “contemporary”, and can’t help but say “you know, that IKEA look?”. The cabinet designer is understanding and has clearly heard this before, intuitively knowing what you’re after. Still, this could be an opportunity to learn a bit more about your personal style, so you ask, “what is the difference between modern and contemporary cabinetry?”
This is a common question, and as this is a style that has grown in popularity across all demographics in recent years, it is an important one.
MODERN
Modern cabinetry is often flat panel, with clean lines and is very minimalist. Solid colours or exotic veneers are often used, alone or to compliment one another. Often visible hardware isn’t used—all handles and hinges are concealed. Modern, when done to it’s furthest extreme, has cabinetry go almost unnoticed, with great attention paid to consistency, visual ease and effortless movement within the space.
CONTEMPORARY
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SO WHAT STYLE AM I?
When you are building your home and searching for the pieces that define your personal style, knowing how to describe what you want is crucial. We can help lead you to the resources that will help educate you. Peruse the Superior website to view sample door styles, design options and galleries of our work.
For more information or to book a meeting, call us today. We look forward to helping you define and create a space that reflects your personal design and lifestyle, making the kitchen your favorite room in the home.
