How Modern Furniture Trends Have Evolved Over The Years

modern furniture

The modern furniture evolution may have started in the 1990s, but it has developed over the hundreds of years since interior design was born. Simple design and a rejection of traditional embellishments are both characteristics we see in the Modernist movement. Unnecessary detail falls by the wayside as functionality takes the forefront. This is off the back of a long history of various design styles that emerged off the back of architectural genius, dating back to 2000 BC.

In this article we will explore the top characteristics we see in the modern furniture trend evolution. We’ll also touch on how these trends are evident in an array of popular styles in the interior spaces of this century.

Economical Production Methods

One thing we notice in the modern furniture evolution is the more economical and functional nature of products. From design to manufacturing we see a focus on form and function. The economical styling keeps interiors clean and simple and removes the ‘frills’. We see a move away from the heavier pieces and towards a lighter furniture shape and form. With flexible materials it is easier and cheaper to manufacture the furniture we see today.

It’s easy to see how the minimalist movement of today has taken some notes from modern furniture trends. Where minimalism is an aesthetic form with a priority to function.

The Cross Road Between Art and Technology

As technology has been an ever-growing enigma over the past century it crossed paths with art in the world of interior design. Along with a strong value for innovative thinking, the modern furniture design trends have taken the world by storm along with it. We see new textures emerging, different shapes, structures and more. Aside from the innovative transition, we predict many more unique shifts in the interior design world in the century to come.

African and Asian Aesthetic Influence

In the midst of this move of simplicity in furniture design and look, we see the influence of Japanese and African design elements. Japanese influence kept items simple but elegant, beautiful, and important. Today Japandi is a popular style influence as spaces become ‘perfectly imperfect’ yet simple, peaceful, and restful.

From an African art perspective, we see motifs brought through in modern furniture design. Shapes and color accents here and there speak from an Art Deco influence in modern furniture design.

What Characterizes Modern Furniture Today?

Although personal taste matters with interior design, the modern furniture movement has remained evergreen through the ages. Some characteristics that have stuck around through the decades are:

  • Straight lines: clean lines in modern furniture are pleasing to the eye, functional and simple.
  • The use of metal and wood: instead of heavy wooden carved furniture we see more metal and wood combinations.
  • Minimalism – function and form: furniture is a possession as well as a functional piece. We find less unnecessary detail in modern furniture design.
  • Neutral and warm tones in color: these warm neutrals are popular coupled with accents of color at times.
  • Smooth, clean surfaces: the simple, geometric textures from an African art influence work well with smooth, clean surfaces.

It wouldn’t be out of place to say that this evolution of furniture has also kept its integrity intact along the way, which makes it timeless.

Make Your Vision Come to Reality with Designer’s Mark

As a family-owned company, Designer’s Mark is your go-to for the latest in interior design. Whether you are looking for a shop-at-home experience, to connect with one of our skilled designers or to browse the showcase we value your needs. We specialize in custom furniture, home accessories, lighting, drapes, shades, rugs, hardware and take on any design projects. We’re big enough to do almost anything, and small enough to care about the details and our clients.

Ready to make your mark? Let us help. Contact us Designer’s Mark at (561) 961-4149 for a customized experience.


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