Contemporary design can also be called Modern design. Clean lines and smooth surfaces characterize this design style. This style does not include intricate details. You can definitely achieve this look without making your home feel cold, stark, and harsh. Today's contemporary design is a blend between comfortable and livable pieces and style which create a sophisticated, fresh feel. There are five key elements to incorporate into your space to achieve a contemporary feel. The five elements are color, metal accents, wood tone and lighting.

Color - When deciding on colors for your new contemporary space you will definitely want to stick with a neutral color palette. Some good choices for walls will be browns, pure whites, taupes and creams. You can always use splashes of color sporadically through the room with accessories and fabrics, because neutral definitely does not mean boring in any sense. During accessorizing keep in mind not to over-accessorize because the key with this design style is simplicity. You can liven up the space with many pops of color. Try adding a vibrantly colored sofa, like red or green to be the main focal point. Bright colored pillows, towels, rugs, and art are also good pieces to achieve this look with as well if you do not want to go too loud with your sofa.

Metal Accents - Like Modern design, metal plays a huge role in a contemporary feel. Stainless steels, nickels and chromes work wonders in a space. By adding these smooth shiny finishes you can definitely accomplish the urban, stylish look that the contemporary style is all about.

Wood Tone - When choosing wood pieces for your design keep in mind that you want some sort of drama portrayed. Contemporary wood pieces should either be very dark wood or very light wood. It is ok to mix up the pieces you choose to be in wood, for example a wooden picture frame and a wooden lamp. However, it is important to keep the tone of the wood consistent.

Lighting - Lighting always plays an important role in interior design. It can definitely illuminate the design of any style and give it the finishing touch to achieve the perfect design. Track lighting is a good choice when it comes to contemporary style. It will provide the clean lines that you will see are consistent through the whole style. Floor lamps and table lamps are also very popular for this style.

When designing a room keep in mind it is all about you. Fill your rooms with stuff you like and not what you are told should go there. Keeping these key elements in mind you will definitely create the sophisticated feel of contemporary design.