Contemporary and modern furniture, of course, means something different to every generation. What was fresh and new in the 70s is somewhat less modern-looking nowadays... unless the household goes in for a bit of retro styling! Contemporary and modern furniture looks now tend to have a number of similar features, although with home furniture, the classification is somewhat looser than in the past, as there are a wide range of influences on contemporary and modern furniture household design.

What Is Contemporary and Modern Furniture?

When looking at contemporary and modern furniture you will notice clean, crisp lines and chunky finishing. Coffee table legs are likely to be thick and square. Dining chairs may be high backed and have materials such as leather used along with solid wood, steel and other functional materials. Contemporary and modern furniture bedroom furniture is very individual too. Solid oak beds, for example, may be sleigh designed, or perhaps reflect international styling such as Indian furniture. At the moment classic solid oak wood with contemporary and modern furniture designs is very fashionable.

What modern furniture tends not to have is fancy finishes or flourishes. Materials such as solid oak wood furniture tends to be durable and long lasting, without excessive finishing. Often the solid wood used is clean cut to complement the simple designer furniture shapes. Other contemporary and modern furniture items may have nods to international design or subtle influences; perhaps a simple Indian design recurring in a home furnishings line, so that the items complement each other. Maybe even a simple Japanese furniture finish or feature which links the pieces together.

What Is The Best Material for Contemporary and Modern Furniture?

Oak wood and hardwood furniture is a very durable material, able to withstand hard wear from regular family or office use. Generally, it is much sturdier and hard wearing than other wood and hardwood furniture, for example mahogany wood. It does not damage as easily as other wood and hardwood furniture. The natural beauty of the grain can be enhanced by natural Danish oil, but the wood can also be stained to slightly alter its appearance to suit various tastes. It is very popular as wood and hardwood furniture, both in Britain and America, but has a wide appeal whatever the type of home furnishings is required.

Contemporary and modern furniture items should be made from 100% solid oak wood for maximum quality. Avoid veneers. Although they are often cheaper, the quality will be less and the item may be less durable. Marks of real quality craftsmanship in contemporary and modern furniture include dovetail joints, reinforced hardwood joints and use of solid woods. Solid oak furniture can also be cared for easily to ensure that it's a beautiful feature of the home for many years. It just needs a light application of natural Danish oil several times a year, gently rubbed into the grain to bring out its lustre and shine. Also protect your contemporary and modern furniture from stains and marks by putting hot mugs or plates on protective coverings. So that the oak furniture items, such as dining tables or coffee tables, remain looking contemporary and modern for many years to come!

Related Articles

As well as this article we also have articles providing information on Oak furniture, Ash furniture, Mahogany furniture, Birch furniture, Pine Furniture,and Indian Furniture. If you like these articles you may also find our article on the characteristics of hardwood furniture article invaluable.

If you already have a range of hardwood furniture in your home, our articles on treating hardwood furniture, repairing hardwood furniture, joinery and specifically dove tailed joints will help you get the most out of your furniture, and spot quality when shopping in furniture.

Other articles on offer at Oak Furniture Land include our rustic furniture, teak furniture, wood and hardwood furniture, classic traditional furniture and contemporary modern furniture will also help you differentiate between the different styles of hardwood furniture available.