Decor goes modern and affordable

Contemporary interior décor is growing in popularity, even in Oklahoma where “old world� design rules. But you don’t have to break the bank to think outside of the traditional décor box.

“Oklahoma is usually a little bit behind the curve when it comes to the really trendy fashions and I think that’s smart to a degree,� said Julie Fost, interior designer and owner of Divas of Decorating. “Some of it goes out before it ever makes it in but because everything kind of cycles around, contemporary is coming back.� If you’ve ever shopped for contemporary furniture you know that the simple, sleek look can cost big money. Oklahoma City’s selection of contemporary furniture stores do offer some affordable pieces mixed in with the $3,000 to $12,000 sofas and dining sets, but unless you’re prepared to spend some significant cash, transforming your abode at these stores may not be a cost effective option.

Whether you want to completely redecorate your home in contemporary style or you just want to update your traditional décor with a taste of modernity, there are ways to mix the old with the new and do it affordably.

A new modern furniture store, I.O. Metro in Edmond has some unique and contemporary options at relatively affordable prices. The store mixes modern décor with an international and traditional flair.

“Simplicity and clean lines still rule, but contemporary décor isn’t stark like contemporary interiors of the past could be, which makes it a welcome addition to any home,� said Ann Hurley, communications director for I.O. Metro.

Pottery Barn is another retailer that mixes traditional and contemporary with its own signature style.

“It tends to be what I consider more of an urban contemporary. It works for a lot more generations than just the younger generation,� Fost said.

And Suburban Contemporary Furniture and Dane Design Contemporary Home & Office Furniture offer unique contemporary furniture options at a variety of price points ranging from moderate to extravagant.

But if those stores are still on the pricey side of your budget, Fost said a trip to Dallas could be in order. Contemporary furniture stores such as Cantoni, Eurway, West Elm and BoConcepts offer some mid-to-high end choices. Ikea, she said, has some surprisingly interesting and budget-friendly choices of modern décor. And if you want to stay in town and on a budget, you could scope out the nearest Target. Since they work with trendy decorators, Target’s furniture selection is generally modern and sleek but inexpensive.

“They always have a lot of fun ideas if you go with an open mind. But when they have something wonderful, you’ve got to be there. It’s not going to make it to the clearance isle and it’s not going to appear again,� Fost said.

And if you do fall in love with an expensive piece, search it online. Fost said one of her decorating secrets is that you can almost always find it cheaper somewhere else.

“Say goodbye to ornamentation and over-accessorizing and hello to functional minimalism,� said Ann Hurley, communications director for I.O. Metro. She describes contemporary decorating as personal, warm, and definitely livable, yet not overdone. She said the hallmarks of modern décor are:
• Smooth lines, clean forms, and sculptural yet functional furnishings (a mix of leather and metals with dark wood.)
• Natural materials (think silk, wool, linen, and cotton)
• Neutral hues (tone-on-tone palettes are great), with a bold shot of color thrown in for good measure.
• Lighting that makes a statement (and, of course, illuminates the room.)

“It works really well with the “greenscape� thing that’s going on. It also works well with simplifying. Everybody wants to make things simpler so you don’t have to work so hard to clean all your things up,� said Oklahoma City decorator Julie Fost.

How to update your traditional décor:

Add a new piece of artwork to your living room wall. Modern art is often monochromatic, abstract and geometric, in the style of such artists as Wassily Kandinsky, Paul Klee and Vincent Van Gogh.

Choose a large rug with a modern shag or geometric pattern that pulls in the colors you already use in your décor.

Mix a new, low-to-the-floor sleek sofa or sectional with your traditional or old world style coffee and end tables. The pairing will pack a visual punch with an eclectic mix of old and new.

Add some new, interesting accessories. A lamp with a driftwood base or a bamboo room divider can instantly update your décor.

Leave a Comment

News Photo Galleriesview all