The word contemporary is everywhere in today’s home décor world — contemporary furniture, contemporary interiors, contemporary bookshelves, contemporary architecture. But what exactly does it mean? And how does contemporary design differ from modern, minimalist, Scandinavian, or traditional aesthetics?

This guide breaks down what is contemporary design, the principles behind it, how it applies to both furniture and interior design, and how brands like SICOTAS embody this design philosophy through clean, modern, and accessible home pieces.

What Is Contemporary Design? (Simple Definition)

Contemporary design refers to the current, evolving style of the present time. Unlike modern design — which refers to a specific historical movement — contemporary design is fluid and changes with current trends.

In simple words:

Contemporary design = the design style that’s popular right now.

It’s fresh, clean, minimalist, and often blends elements from different aesthetics like:

• Scandinavian
• Japanese minimalism
• Mid-century modern
• Soft industrial
• Organic natural

Key Characteristics of Contemporary Design

While trends shift, contemporary interiors consistently follow certain principles.

Clean Lines

Contemporary design avoids heavy ornamentation and embraces simplicity:

• Straight lines
• Smooth surfaces
• Light silhouettes

Neutral Color Palette

Most contemporary interiors use:

• White
• Black
• Grey
• Beige
• Sand
• Warm wood tones

These neutral tones create a calm, elegant environment.

Minimal But Warm

Unlike stark minimalism, contemporary spaces feel:

• Cozy
• Airy
• Balanced

Natural textures — wood, rattan, linen — add warmth.

Functional + Stylish Furniture

Every piece must have:

• Practical use
• Aesthetic purpose
• A clean, uncluttered look

This is why brands like SICOTAS fit perfectly into contemporary homes.

What Is Contemporary Furniture Design?

Many shoppers ask:

“What is contemporary furniture design?”

or

“What does contemporary furniture design mean?”

Here’s the simplest explanation:

Contemporary furniture design focuses on clean lines, functional shapes, neutral colors, and natural materials, following today’s design trends.

Key Features of Contemporary Furniture

Feature	Description
Simple Forms	No heavy carvings or ornate details
Neutral Colors	Black, white, oak, grey, sand
Natural Elements	Wood, rattan, stone-inspired patterns
Soft Geometry	Rounded corners + straight lines
Practicality First	Storage + functionality
Mix of Textures	Matte surfaces, oak grains, cane panels

 

What Is Contemporary Interior Design?

Contemporary interior design extends these principles into the full living environment.

Core Elements of Contemporary Interiors

• Open and airy floor plans
• Natural light as a feature
• Neutral palette with small bold accents
• Functional décor — not too busy
• Mixing textures (wood, linen, matte black, metal)
• Smooth, clean walls and furniture edges

The Goal

To create a fresh, uncluttered, modern living space that feels both stylish and comfortable.

Contemporary Design in Storage Furniture: Why Bookshelves Matter

One of the easiest ways to introduce contemporary design into your home is with storage furniture — especially tall bookshelves.

A contemporary bookshelf:

• Uses clean vertical lines
• Incorporates natural tones (light oak, sand, grey, black oak)
• Balances open shelves + closed storage
• Follows minimal shapes
• Adds height + structure to rooms

Best Contemporary Bookshelves from SICOTAS (Perfect Examples of the Style)

Below are the strongest examples of contemporary furniture design in bookshelf form:

Savanna 5-Shelf Tall Bookcase

Clean vertical lines
Contemporary rattan doors
Available in Light Oak, Caramel Oak, Black Oak
Perfect for living rooms, offices, and bedrooms

Savanna Arched Bookcase (Classic Contemporary Curve)

The arched silhouette has become a signature contemporary trend.

• Premium curved top
• Combination of open shelves + cabinet
• Soft, organic architecture

Cas Black Bookshelf

If your contemporary design leans modern or minimal:

• Neutral black or grey alder
• Sleek edges
• Practical lower-door storage

Willow Tall Bookshelf

A more organic contemporary feel with:

• Warm beige tones
• Natural smooth textures
• Slim, elegant frame

Zura Rattan Bookcase

A blend of contemporary + bohemian modern:

• Natural cane doors
• Clean Scandinavian form
• Subtle tones

Contemporary Design vs. Modern Design vs. Minimalist

Many people mix up these terms. Here’s a simple comparison:

Style	Key Traits
Contemporary	Clean, soft, current trends, neutral colors, evolving
Modern (Mid-Century)	Teak, bold geometry, timeless 1950–60s look
Minimalist	Very sparse, “less is more,” almost empty spaces
Scandinavian	Light wood, comfort, neutral palette, warmth
Japandi	Calm, low furniture, natural texture, Zen-inspired

Contemporary design often blends elements from all the above.

How to Incorporate Contemporary Design Into Your Home

Start With Neutral Colors

Base your room in beige, grey, oak, white, or black.

Add One or Two Contemporary Furniture Pieces

Bookshelves are perfect starters — functional and stylish.

Choose Clean Shapes

Avoid overly ornate furniture.

Bring in Natural Materials

Wood
Rattan
Stone-textured surfaces
Soft fabrics

Keep Spaces Light & Airy

Don’t overcrowd your room with décor.

Mix Textures for Warmth

Contemporary design = minimalist but not cold.

Invest in Long-Lasting Essentials

SICOTAS furniture pieces blend durability + contemporary elegance.

Table: What Defines Contemporary Design?

Category	Contemporary Traits
Colors	Neutral, warm, black, oak, sand
Furniture	Clean lines, minimal curves, natural materials
Décor	Simple, purposeful, not cluttered
Textures	Mix of wood, cane, fabric, matte black
Layout	Airy, spacious, organized
Lighting	Soft, natural, warm tone

 

Final Thoughts: Why Contemporary Design Works for Every Home

Contemporary design is timeless because it evolves.
It feels clean but warm, modern but comfortable, elegant but functional. Whether you're designing a whole home or updating one room, contemporary furniture — especially bookshelves and storage units — instantly elevates your space.

SICOTAS captures this aesthetic beautifully with collections that combine:

• Soft minimalism
• Clean geometry
• Warm natural finishes
• Modern textures like rattan and matte wood

Frequently Asked Questions

What is contemporary design in simple terms?

It’s the design style that reflects what’s popular right now — clean, modern, minimal, and warm.

What is contemporary furniture design?

Furniture that uses clean lines, natural materials, neutral colors, and functional shapes based on current trends.

What is contemporary interior design?

A modern approach to home design that focuses on simplicity, open layouts, neutral palettes, and warm textures.

How is contemporary design different from modern design?

Modern refers to a historical style; contemporary is current and always evolving.

What colors are used in contemporary design?

Black, white, grey, beige, sand, light wood, and warm oak tones.

What pieces best represent contemporary furniture?

Bookshelves, sideboards, minimalist sofas, TV stands, and rattan-accent cabinets.

Is contemporary design warm or cold?

Warm. It uses wood tones, soft curves, and cozy textures for balance.