Difference Between Modern & Contemporary Kitchens

When you are looking for kitchen renovations there are multiple types of kitchens to choose from. Topnotch Kitchen and Bedrooms is the popular kitchen designs are modern and contemporary ones. Though many people also prefer shaker style and classic but the modern styles are prevalent.

If you’re thinking of a kitchen remodel, you’re probably thinking between these two popular options. Modern and contemporary may sound similar, but they each have a distinct look and feel. 

In this blog, we’ll look at the key differences between modern and contemporary kitchens.

Modern Kitchens

Modern kitchen styles are all about being sleek and minimalist. They focus on function over fancy design. The look is very clean, lightweight and airy.

Topnotch Kitchen and Bedrooms, clean lines in the cabinets and layout. They avoid too much decoration. It’s all about looking streamlined. The materials used continue the minimalist vibe. You’ll see lots of metal, concrete, glass and shiny lacquered cabinets. Countertops are quartz, stone or concrete.

The color scheme sticks to whites, grays and blacks to keep things simple. Appliances tend to be sleek stainless steel that blends with the overall look.

Modern Bespoke Kitchens in London

Elements Used in Modern Kitchens

Modern kitchens mix materials like metal, concrete, and glass. These designs use a lot of raw industrial materials. You will not find any moldings, carvings, curves or decorative hardware. The goal is to showcase the natural beauty of the materials. For example, a gorgeous quartz countertop or cool metal cabinets. The use of these elements and textures creates a visual appeal.

Pros

  • Modern kitchens are lightweight
  • They are easy to keep and maintain
  • They are free from clutter

Cons

  • The modern kitchen designs can feel cold and lacks the warmth
  • They are not as cozy as other kitchen models
  • They lack personality in design

Contemporary Kitchens

Contemporary kitchens are what is current and in trend. They use a mix of modern and traditional design elements. The style feels current yet traditional. One of the main features of contemporary kitchen designs is the clean lines. The look of these kitchens are eclectic as they use a combination of different styles and materials. The texture and natural materials create a sense of warmth which is not found in other designs.

We are one of the leading maker of Contemporary Kitchens in UK.

contemporary Bespoke Kitchens in London

Elements Used in Contemporary Kitchens

Contemporary kitchens use materials like wood, stone, and metal. If you look at the contemporary kitchen designs minutely then you can notice the straight lines and edges. They also have softer curves like door arches. The cabinets have carved knobs, aged finishes, or paneled facades.

One of the keys to the use of materials is the correct mix of wood, natural stone, marble, metal and glass.Neutral colors perfectly support the designs and materials. The overall look is transitional and flexible.

Pros of Contemporary Kitchens

  • The blend of modern and traditional allows contemporary kitchens to feel current yet classic.
  • The mix of materials and textures creates a warmth.
  • There is also more freedom to include personal touches. 
  • The transitional look gives flexibility in rearranging elements as needs change.
Cons of Contemporary Kitchens
  • The increase in ornamentation and mix of materials means there are more design elements that can potentially become clutter. 
  • Not suitable for people living a minimalist lifestyle.
  • It is difficult to maintain a clean look.
Modern Vs Contemporary Kitchens

Here are the 4 key differences between modern and contemporary kitchens.

Design Emphasis

The main difference between modern and contemporary kitchens is the amount of decoration. Modern design strips things down to just the necessities. No extra decor.

Contemporary allows for more personal expression with carefully chosen accents while keeping things clean. Modern kitchens let the textures and colors of the materials stand out without accessories. Contemporary adds decorative hardware, textiles, color accents and lighting for visual interest.

Vibes

Along with less accessories, modern kitchens have an industrial vibe from raw materials like concrete, metal and glass. The neutral color scheme adds to a sterile, warehouse feel.

Contemporary kitchens use some modern materials but feel warmer from wood cabinets, stone counters, and decorative lighting. Unique handles, rugs, and art add personality.

Raw Materials

The materials used are another key difference. Modern shows off raw building materials without added finishes.

The concrete, brushed steel, smooth lacquered cabinets. Contemporary brings in more natural elements like wood and stone for organic colors and textures. This mix feels more eclectic and inviting.

Clean vs Curved lines.

Modern kitchens strictly use straight lines and 90 degree angles in the cabinets, counters and backsplashes.

Contemporary incorporates some curves like arched doorways, rounded cabinet corners, curved lighting or pedestal tables. The soft lines add visual interest and warmth.

Conclusion

While both looks are modern in aesthetic, the main differences come down to the level of simplicity versus inclusion of decorative embellishments, a harder industrial vibe versus incorporation of natural materials and colors, and strict straight lines versus some fluid curves. The overall feeling is sterile modern versus an eclectic transitional style.

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