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Mid Century Modern Leather Sofa & dining set in living room with open floor plan

New Trends in Modern Furniture

By Interior Design Tips

Modern Leather sectional natural stone table linen pillows and rug
Modern furniture is a staple in our showroom for good reason. Spaces styled with a modern flair feel bright and inspiring. It’s a look that seems to keep onlookers interested no matter how many times they see it. Whether it is natural wood cabinetry, subtle color palettes, or dreamy upholstery-covered chairs, modern furniture is one of the best options for homeowners looking to update their space.

An added benefit of modern interior design? There are a variety of trends within the style to keep your space looking new and fresh, no matter which pieces you add. Plus, every room can fit the same modern aesthetic while staying on-trend—kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, and everywhere in-between.

Our team of interior design experts collected a list of the latest trends in modern furniture, so you can keep your space full of the latest and greatest the style has to offer. Here are a few modern furniture trends to keep your eyes on this upcoming year.

Menswear-Inspired Furniture Styles

Menswear Inspired Modern Contemporary SofaOne of the latest trends hitting the modern interior design scene is heavily influenced by menswear. Think industrial, leather upholstery, dark woods, and subtle textures. Another vital element to menswear-inspired furniture is the combination of classic neutral color palettes, texture, and subtle patterns. In our opinion, this style looks best in the bedroom and living room.

Natural Furniture Materials

Natural leather and reclaimed wood walls and dining table from San Francisco DesignModern interior design puts great emphasis on natural materials. Make this element the focus of your furniture choices by picking pieces that are stylish and eco-friendly. There are plenty of options to choose from, but a few that our interior designers lean towards sustainably-grown wood, rattan, bamboo, and reclaimed woods.

Multi-Functional Furniture

Multi-Functional Modern Furniture & Sofas from San Francisco DesignIf you live in a smaller home, you can easily benefit from hopping on the multi-functional modern furniture trend. These pieces provide style and function in one fitting package. Look for furniture that fits your needs best. Some new designs that work best include hidden storage cabinets, charging ports, or flexible add-ons you can use as needed

Upholstered Bed Frames

Upholstered Modern Bed Frames from San Francisco DesignMany homeowners are applying this trend to bedrooms: guest, master suite, kids’ rooms—you name it. Swap out your wooden bed set for an upholstered bed frame or headboard. It’s a classic look that kicks the comfort level up a notch. You can find these bed frames in velvet, linen, and leather varieties.

Mid-Century Modern Furniture

Mid-Century Modern Living Room Furniture from San Francisco DesignChances are you know a thing or two about mid-century modern furniture. It’s currently one of the most popular design styles, and it’s here to stay. Mid-Century modern furniture designs heavily favor sleek lines and bold colors. Try incorporating pieces that feature unique patterns, rich wood grain, and texture to bring this style into your living room, kitchen, or den.

Artisan-Inspired Designs

Artisan handcrafted leather and iron chair from San Francisco DesignArtisan styles are making their way from local cafes to professionally-designed homes. Mix and match furniture for a creative blend that better matches your aesthetic. Some of the pieces our interior designers come back to time and again feature handcrafted elements, natural elements, and a vintage-inspired style.

Intricate Metal Furniture

Modern & Contemporary Metal and Glass Tables from San Francisco DesignThe last trend making waves in modern interior design is metalwork. However, unlike metal furniture pieces from the past, this style incorporates curves, right angles, and an abundance of intricate details. You can add these pieces to any area of your home for extra visual appeal, whether it’s a floor lamp, a bookcase, or shelving.

Modern Furniture at San Francisco Design

Find everything you need to keep your home on-trend at San Francisco Design. Our showroom has numerous pieces to choose from, no matter what you need. You can also receive insight from our group of talented interior designers. Contact us or visit one of our Utah showrooms for more information.

May 14, 2020

Modern Vs. Contemporary: What to Know for Your Next Home

By Interior Design Tips

Moving into a new home comes with many opportunities, challenges, and interior design decisions. While you could rely on the style of your former homes, it could be time to switch things up. Some of the most popular design methods homeowners are leaning towards these days include the modern and contemporary varieties.

What most homeowners don’t realize is that while these seem similar, there are key differences that separate modern and contemporary home design. That’s why we asked our interior designers what makes a modern home versus how homeowners can use the contemporary style. Let’s discuss the answers and figure out which one will best fit your next home.

Modern Vs. Contemporary Interior Design

When you pick up a thesaurus or search “contemporary” online, you might notice “modern” listed in its synonyms. At first glance, it is easy to think the two styles amount to the same thing. But that isn’t the cause. There are specific nuances that make the two different. Of course, there are similarities, but let’s look over the distinctions between each so that you can better understand what you want in your next home.

Styling a Modern Home 

Modern design refers to a specific time from the early to mid-twentieth century that was a precursor to contemporary design. A few artists that made this style famous during its inception included Le Corbusier, Florence Knoll, and the Eames. What made the style distinct was it focused on form and function. Artists used earthy palettes, natural materials, and streamlined silhouettes. It was all about simplicity and minimalistic features.

One of the off-shoots of the modern style that many homeowners use today is mid-century modern. This particular niche developed in the 1950s and 60s. Some homeowners that commit to a full mid-century modern home, easily infuse both styles into their home with simple tweaks that likely include contrasting elements and plastic materials, which is a stray from modernism materials of choice. It also allowed for bolder colors and patterns, with a modernistic touch.

Contemporary Home Design

Contemporary interior design doesn’t have roots in a specific period like modernism. Instead, many of its defining features stem from borrowed qualities of other design styles. A few of these include modernism, Art Deco, minimalism, and different artistic styles. Contemporary combines these features without focusing on any style too much. This may sound confusing, but you can detect contemporary design by spotting these qualities:

  • Neutral Palettes
  • Stark Minimalism
  • Clean Lines
  • Organic Silhouettes
  • Metallic Materials
  • Natural Textures

Perhaps the best way of knowing which style you prefer—contemporary or modern, is by understanding you make your choices based on what’s popular today. If you are using a variety of popular elements in your home that also includes modernistic features, the chances are you lean more towards contemporary design. However, if you prefer modern design, you can tell by its distinct aesthetic, which emphasizes warm neutrals, balanced compositions, and crisp lines.

Unfortunately, you could still have a hard time determining which one you like. Let’s look at examples of each interior design style to understand better which is which.

Examples of Modern Home Design:

Modern bathroom design

Modern living room design

Modern living room design

Modern dining room design

Modern interior design by San Francisco Design

Each of these interiors perfectly captures the simplicity of a modern home. The pieces included in the images only emulate the sleek lines of the home’s architecture—a defining feature of modern design. The materials are also reasonably simplistic with au naturel leading the way. However, there are a few metallic elements that only reflect the overall modern style.

Examples of Contemporary Interior Design:

Contemporary bathroom design with tiled wall

Contemporary bedroom design with bed rug and nightstand

Contemporary living room design with sofa, coffee table and chandelier

Contemporary kitchen design

Contemporary living room and dining room design with sofas, dining table and upholstered chairs

While you can find contemporary homes that mostly reflect modern styles, the examples included help depict contemporary design that blends other techniques, as well. One of the defining features in each of these designs is the mixture of sleek lines and organic silhouettes. Notice the curvature in many furniture pieces and lighting designs. Overall, contemporary design is a touch more eccentric than modernism, making it an excellent choice for many homeowners.

Finding Your Style with San Francisco Design

If you are still unsure which style would fit your next home best, work with the interior design team at San Francisco Design. Our designers can help you narrow down choices that reflect your personal style and also make whichever design style you choose entirely your own. Trust us to turn your next house into your dream home.

Contact us today to learn about our design services or browse our online collection of modern and contemporary furniture.

May 13, 2020
Modern Vases & Potted Plants for a Contemporary Centerpiece

Your Guide to Styling Dining Room Centerpieces for Summer

By Interior Design Tips

Modern & Contemporary Dining Room Centerpieces by San Francisco Design

Summer is one of the best times of year to revamp your space with small details. As this upcoming summer approaches, you get in on the fun by making a few interior design tweaks. Sure, you know how to swap out your wool rugs for lighter material varieties. You might have even set out a few table accessories in your living room already. Or, given your bedroom a summer makeover. But what about your dining room?

Many contemporary dining rooms look and feel the same for years before we give them a little extra design care and attention. But, the interior designers at San Francisco Design believe it is one of the most underrated places for making a seasonal statement.

Luckily, you don’t need to completely redesign your dining room space for it to look wholly refreshed during the summer season. One way our designers give their client’s a dining room makeover is by adding a summer centerpiece.

Contemporary table decorations are a fantastic way of transforming your dining room. No matter if you are hosting a summertime party or want to bring your dining room into the current season, a summer centerpiece is the ultimate solution.

Here are a few ways you can style your dining room for summer that features a contemporary touch.

6 Contemporary Dining Room Centerpieces for Summer

 

Focus on Sculpture

Modern Centerpieces for a Contemporary Dining Room

One of the defining features of contemporary design is organic shapes. Bring in that sculpture focus by using an individual sculpture or a low-profile vase that is uniquely shaped. If you are using a sculpture, that find a piece that draws the eye in with a striking shape. On the other hand, a low-profile bowl or vase can also be the perfect spot to place a few summer fruits for an added in-season flair.

Incorporate a Non-Flower Arrangement

Sculptural Summer Modern Dining Room Centerpiece

While flowers are a usual choice for many summer centerpieces, take the road less traveled by using branches, houseplants, cacti, or other non-flower arrangements. This centerpiece is much more sculptural than florals. It will also help anchor the entire contemporary design, while also making a stylish accent to the room.

Display Candlesticks 

Modern Candlesticks in a Contemporary Dining Room Centerpiece at San Francisco Design

Antique candlesticks are another dining room centerpiece that perfectly capitalizes on the contemporary style. You can even use candlestick holders that feature a lighter design, making it the perfect centerpiece for a summer dining room style. Instead of metallic, choose candlestick holders colored with earthy tones that better fit the summer season.

Show-Off Earthy Objects

Modern Dining Room Centerpieces for a Contemporary Home at San Francisco Design

Speaking of earthy, you can also use a collection of objects that include an unfinished, minimalistic touch. Some of the objects you could use include wooden items, raw stones, rustic accessories, and other objects. Our designers suggest either using one oversized item or several small ones. Homeowners with a simplified dining room design might find that one oversized item would draw the right amount of attention to the contemporary feel of the space.

Assemble an Assortment of Potted Plants

Modern Vases & Potted Plants for a Contemporary Centerpiece

If you want to create variety, try using a series of living centerpieces rather than one. Potted plants also feel very in-line with summertime interior designs. Herbs are another great option for dining room centerpieces, as they need little maintenance. You can also cut off a piece and add it to your summer recipes during barbecues and other summer festivities.

Create a Monochrome Display

Monochromatic Centerpieces for a Modern Dining Room Available at San Francisco DesignAnother excellent option for a summertime dining room centerpiece is a monochrome display. By keeping the centerpiece’s look monochromatic, you will help emphasize the room’s similar color palette. Working together, the entire design will feel cohesive and organized. The dining room will also feel very modern, as it lacks any contrasting colors.

Summer Dining Room Styling at San Francisco Design

Get your home ready for summer by visiting San Francisco Design. You can choose from a collection of dining room items or work with our interior design experts for additional design services. Our modern and contemporary furniture store has a wide variety of pieces that will make your house feel summer-ready in no time. You can also work with our interior designers revamping your space to better fit the season.

Contact San Francisco Design or visit one of our Utah showrooms today.

May 5, 2020
modern mantle with mirror from san francisco design

What Every Contemporary Mantel Needs

By Interior Design Tips

modern mantle with mirror from san francisco design

Creating a focal point in any room is a key point of any interior home styling. Packing a space with a variety of wow items is a temptation, but it is also a risk. Not only does a well-put-together mantel provide you with the perfect place to play around with different pieces, but for creating an awe-inspiring focal point.

But creating a contemporary mantel can be tricky. If you overload it with accessories, it can quickly look overstuffed and challenge the eye. Keep it too plain, and a mantel could seem boring. That’s why bringing together the perfect balance of simplicity and uniqueness is how our interior designers style their professionally-crafted mantel designs.

We asked these professionals from San Francisco Design, how they help their clients create a contemporary mantel. Here are the top elements they include in any mantel design that keeps every space looking fresh and exciting.

Tip #1: Focus on a WOW Item

The best way to start styling your mantel is by finding an item to focus on in your design. Whether it’s your favorite piece of artwork, a mirror, or a television, choosing one larger piece to center your design will make any mantel look professionally put-together. It is also great to include artwork that is special to you, even if you have had it for years. Adding it to your freshly-styled mantel will make the piece look brand new.

Mirrors are also an excellent option for many homeowners as they open up space. Perhaps one of the biggest perks of using a mirror is that it helps the room appear even bigger than it already is. You can find a mirror that is round, rectangular, framed, or plain. Whichever option you choose, it will make a great focal point in your space.

Televisions are another popular choice for homeowners. Some believe it will cheapen their design, but with the right styling, it will look just as contemporary as any mantel without one. Just take a look at the design featured in the picture above, where a framed TV actually brings the entire mantel design together. Don’t be afraid—grab your flat-screen TV and let it take center stage on your mantel.

Tip #2: Add a Few Containers

Smaller containers that fit on a mantel help add complexity to the design. Containers work well standing on their own, but are even better when filled with greenery or fresh flowers. You can also find a variety of small containers like patterned boxes and stack them on top of each other. These will add some complexity that every professionally-designed area needs.

 

Contemporary & Modern Decor from San Francisco Design

Tip #3: Create Levels

Another element to a beautifully-styled mantel is creating levels to the design. Pick items that feature different heights and layers. If you use accessories that are one height, your mantel will look simple, no matter how many things you use. Use books, candles, vases, and mirrors that vary in size, shape, and height. Together, it will give them plenty to look at, so it stays interesting no matter how long you look at it.

 

Tip #4: Add in Smaller Accessories

No mantel is complete without a collection of unique accessories.  Our designers suggest leaving this tip for the last step of your design. That way, you can find the spaces in your mantel that need something extra. You should also opt for items that are special to you, whether it is picture frames, keepsakes collected on memorable trips, or accessories that match your personality.

However, keep your mantel accessories to a minimum. The more you add, the more eclectic your mantel will look. Our interior designers use contemporary design rules and only suggest featuring 2-3 smaller items.

 

modern mantel design with greenery from San Francisco Design

Contemporary Mantel Styling at San Francisco Design

If you need help designing your living space, San Francisco Design is here to help. Our contemporary interior designers know how to make any mantel look perfectly put together. Contact us to learn more about our interior design services. You can also browse our site for a variety of contemporary items, accessories, and larger furniture pieces that you can use in your home.

 

May 4, 2020
Use natural lighting - Expert ways to make your home extra comfortable

Expert Ways to Make Your Home Extra Comfortable

By Interior Design Tips

Your home is your haven. As soon as you walk inside, you should feel at peace, comfortable, and relaxed. No matter if you are in your first home, a rented apartment, or a luxurious home you designed yourself, there are a few ways you can make the most out of your space. From sounds and smells to adding specific pieces intended for relaxation, here are the top ways you can make your home extra comfortable. Give these tips a try, and you will find that getting the R & R you need is easier than ever before.

 

Increase Natural Sunlight

While you might think that shutting the blinds is the fastest way to a calm space, increasing natural sunlight has way more benefits than artificial. Many homeowners close their curtains and switch on their lights. Do better by opening your blinds and windows more often. It will help you relax and get your body into its natural rhythm.

Cattelan modern dining table natural light in a contemporary home

Consider All Your Senses

Along with touch, smell and sound play a significant part in your body’s ability to get comfortable. For the days you need extra relaxation, you can try aromatherapy and calming music. Some homeowners light incense, and others use an essential oil diffuser or a candle. You can try testing out a variety of options and finding what works for your senses. A few popular scents include lavender, lemon, and eucalyptus. You can also play music softly in the background to help you feel calm and relaxed.

modern candles for a contemporary home

Rearrange Your Feng Shui

One of the classic methods of getting calm energy int o your home is rearranging your furniture using the Feng Shui method. While you don’t need to use the technical practice of Feng Shui, try rearranging your furniture, so you have more open space than before. By having less in one area, you will automatically feel more relaxed. Plus, extra clutter can keep your mind racing with thoughts of cleaning. Give your space the Feng Shui makeover and free up your space. It could be the key to unlocking your stress-free environment.

Modern Home neutral color and open space

Add Some Greenery

Greenery is a stylistic option for those wanting to increase positive energy into their homes, according to some interior designers. Not only can it help your mental space and productivity, but it enables you to breathe easier. Fortunately, some options work well for beginners who want a plant that is easy to maintain. For years, homeowners have added a plant and fresh flowers here and there, but nowadays, people are loading up on the home greenery. By adding a few into your space, you will get added style points and breathe a bit easier.

Modern Stressless chair green plants for relaxation

Comfort and Relaxation at San Francisco Design

Making your home relaxing is easier than you think. Work with our interior design team to learn more tips and tricks to make your home a calm environment. You can even come into or showroom and see what is available. We love transforming houses into homes. Contact us to get started.

December 9, 2019
modern houseplant design for a contemporary home

Your Guide to Household Plants

By Interior Design Tips

Succulents, florals, live, or faux greenery is truly taking the interior design world by storm. Interior plants add the fresh pop of color by breathing new life back into outdated designs.  For years, homeowners used faux plant or fresh flowers here and there throughout their home, but today, loading up house plants is everyone’s go-to design tip. From flowers, greenery, and succulents, to fake plants and more, indoor plants are one of the best style trends to follow.

Unfortunately, finding the household plant that works for you can be a challenge. Chances are you have bought a few only to find they are more work than you planned. Knowing which plants to buy and how to take care of them is the first step in making the right choice for your home. So, instead of buying the first plant that catches your eye, here are a few expert tips to get you started on the right path.

modern houseplant design for a contemporary home

How to Choose the Right Household Plant

House plants breathe life into your interior space. These eco-friendly additions help clean the air in your space as well as adding the splash of color a modern or contemporary home needs.  House plants also force you to keep natural light flooding the space around them which is an obvious trick many experts use in their design spaces. To help you get started here is our guide to household plants.

House Plants for Beginners

When you are just starting to get into the household greenery life, you should find plants that are easy to take care of. This is especially helpful for homes that lack the natural sunlight that many plants need to survive. Luckily, there is an array of options to choose from, including plants that survive in harsh conditions. Here are a few choices that work well in dimly lit spaces, crowded areas, and require little maintenance. You should also research these plants more in-depth for the best results.

 

Fiddle Leaf Fig

A popular choice for many homeowners, the Fiddle Leaf Fig perfectly complements larger spaces with high ceilings. This plant is tall but not bushy and boasts dark green leaves that require medium light and only needs water when the soil is dry to the touch.

fiddle leaf fig tree modern greenery

Spider Plant

Another low-maintenance option for homeowners looking for a starter plant is the Spider Plant. One of the most popular choices available, this plant is small, self-propagating, and attractive. The Spider Plant needs low to bright indirect sunlight, making it an excellent choice for those living in confined spaces.

 

Air Plant

Air Plants, also known as Tillansia, are one of the house plants that require little maintenance. Actually, they don’t need soil and get their moisture from the air making it a great choice for bathrooms. These plants use a minimal root systems that comes in over 500 different species with a variety of stunning options to choose from. You can hang your Air Plant in stylish Air Plant holders that perfectly complement the plant’s coloring.

air plant modern greenery for a contemporary home

Iron Plant

Another minimal option for the beginner caretaker is the Iron Plant. This deep-green plant survives in low light, poor soil conditions, and requires little watering, making it one of the most durable indoor plants. You can add this plant to any space for added dimension thanks to the beautiful coloring.

 

ZZ Plant

The last live plant on our list is the ZZ Plant or Zamioculcas Zamiifolia. This plant can survive in harsh conditions surviving in low light. You only need to water it three times a month, and it doesn’t require a lot of light to thrive.

zz plant with contemporary pot modern greenery

Faux Plants

Faux plants are growing in popularity thanks to their nearly-real look. You can find a variety of options that look great no matter the time of year. Faux plants also come in a variety of shapes and sizes. Adding a faux plant to your interior is a great option for any homeowner.

faux greenery for a modern bedroom

For additional help finding the right house plant for your home, contact San Francisco Design. Working with our interior design team you can find the right type and amount of house plants for your space. Contact us to get started.

September 18, 2019
Utah Interior Designers | Professional Interior Design | San Francisco Design

How to Use an Interior Designer

By Furniture, Interior Design Tips

Utah Interior Designers Studying Home Blueprints and Color SchemesInterior design can be a daunting process. With so many styles, brands, textiles, and colors on the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. San Francisco Design is the ONLY furniture store in Salt Lake City or Park City to make interior design our top priority. Whether you are looking for a single piece or inspiration for an entire home, our professional and knowledgeable modern interior designers look forward to helping you realize your vision.

We are tremendously proud of our interior design process. It all starts with a visit to one of our curated showrooms in Park City or Salt Lake City, Utah. One of our designers will greet you and will be available to guide you, answering questions as you wander through. Following your lead, whether you want to browse uninterrupted, have a specific request, or are unsure where to start, your needs are always our only priority.

Woman Working With Her Salt Lake City Interior DesignerIf you would like to continue with our Utah-based interior designers, the next step would be scheduling a visit to your home. This valuable component of our process ensures that your Designer really gets a feel for your style and needs. Reviewing your current space, furniture, and style, your Designer can create a floor plan to ensure that space planning, balance, and comfort are all addressed equally in the finished look.

After the home visit, your Designer will finalize the designs to include furniture, fabric, finishes, and even paint and wallpaper colors to accentuate the new look. A presentation of the detailed floor plan will allow you to provide feedback and update the plan as necessary, making any final touches and confirming your requirements and needs.
Array of Colored Fabrics Used by Interior Designers

Throughout the delivery phase, your Designer will update you regularly, keeping you aware of timing and confirming the schedule of our white glove delivery team.

Whether you are looking for a single piece, design advice, space planning, or custom services, SFD is excited to be a part of your journey to help you realize your unique vision. Our interior design services aren’t just the best in Salt Lake City & Park City, they’re the best in Utah. Learn more about our online interior design process or contact us to get started with one of our leading interior designers today!

August 7, 2018