While classic home features and vintage decor are the peak of timeless elegance for some, others may prefer a decidedly more modern approach to interior design. You may not have the luxury of residing in a newly built modern palace, but there are renovation projects you can consider to modernise your home. From redesigning your floor plan to kitting your environment out with innovative gadgets, here are just a few of the excellent ways to help you achieve the modern home of your dreams.
Create An Open-Plan Space
You may have noticed that many modern homes feature open-plan spaces, combining multiple separate areas to create one open, fluid living space. Open-plan spaces have various benefits, from maximising natural light to encouraging family time. While redesigning the floor plan of your home may be a complex and invasive endeavour, with professional advice from a structural engineer, it may be more attainable than you think. That said, there are numerous factors to consider, such as whether or not your home is a listing building.
Install A Skylight
As well as creating an open-plan living space, an excellent way to increase natural light exposure (also a common feature of modern homes) is to install a skylight. Natural light is vital for our bodies to produce vitamin D. It also improves circadian rhythms and sleep patterns, helps to enhance focus and improves mood. A skylight maximises natural light exposure by reducing the need for excess artificial light. Additionally, new skylights add tremendous value to your home, making them a worthwhile investment.
Update Your Kitchen
Dated kitchens can put a damper on even the most beautiful homes. On the other hand, sleek, modern kitchens with prominent technology are inviting and functional. While some homeowners enjoy modest clutter and open shelving, modern kitchens are typically minimalistic, with clean lines and contemporary design features. You don’t need to spend a fortune by ripping out your entire kitchen; minor changes can make a big difference. For instance, consider installing under-cabinet lighting for an elegant yet futuristic ambience.
Install Smart Devices
Modernise your home by keeping up with the latest technology trends. Not only will technology make your home feel more modern, but smart devices can vastly improve your daily routine, making you more productive and efficient. For example, a smart thermostat you can control via your smartphone will keep your home at your desired temperature at all times. You could even purchase a robot vacuum cleaner to help keep your floors pristine and free from dust, pet dander and other allergens.
Rethink Your Stairs
Your stairs see a great deal of foot traffic, particularly if you have a large, busy family and frequently entertain guests; hence, they may require a little attention. If you have carpeted hardwood stairs, consider ripping up the carpet and restoring the hardwood beneath for a sleeker, more modern appearance. Alternatively, you could replace your staircase altogether with some state-of-the-art modern stairs.
Include Industrial Materials
Many modern homes feature industrial materials and elements of brutalism - a form of architecture and interior design with emphasis on rough surfaces, concrete, heavy materials and unusual, geometric shapes. You can incorporate industrial materials into your home with exposed brickwork, weathered wood, steel beams and industrial pendant lighting features. You could also opt for vintage-inspired reclaimed industrial furniture items which have a rustic yet modern, edgy appearance.
Keep Things White And Bright
As discussed, you can make your home appear sleek and modern by maximising natural light and sticking with light colours, particularly white and pale grey. While it may not be a renovation by definition, embracing minimalism and keeping your living space light and airy will help to maintain a fresh, modern look. Keep clutter to a minimum and opt for a relatively monochromatic colour palette, with pops of vibrant colour used selectively as an accent.
Consider Renewable Energy Systems
Another key component of modern homes is an emphasis on sustainability. Many modern houses are built using eco-friendly, sustainably sourced materials and feature renewable energy systems such as solar, wind and hydroelectric. The good news is that you can reduce your carbon footprint and make your home more sustainable by installing solar panels and switching to a green energy provider. Here is some more information about building a greener home.