The Viral Video That Sparked a Debate on Contemporary Interior Design
A recent TikTok video featuring an interior design expert labeling contemporary interior design as "the worst design style" has ignited a lively and thought-provoking conversation within the design community. The video, posted by user @hanaeltjes on March 10, has amassed over 30,000 views. In the clip, the designer argues that contemporary furniture often feels cold and reminiscent of office or high-end hotel lobbies, characterized by its shiny, glossy finishes. She also critiques the style for being prone to going out of fashion quickly, a point she believes makes it less enduring than other styles like mid-century modern, which she associates with warmth and coziness. The video has opened up a broader discussion about the role of contemporary design in today’s homes, especially as home renovation spending in the U.S. has surged in recent years, with the median spend increasing by 60 percent between 2020 and 2023, according to a survey by Houzz.
The designer also highlights common pitfalls people make when mixing contemporary styles with other design elements, such as pairing shiny metallics with rustic decor, which she believes creates a jarring contrast. Her critique has resonated with some professionals in the field, who agree that contemporary design’s cold, sleek aesthetic can feel impersonal and less inviting. However, not all designers share this opinion, with some arguing that contemporary design is versatile and can be made warm and welcoming when executed thoughtfully. The video has undoubtedly struck a chord, sparking a nuanced debate about the merits and shortcomings of contemporary interior design.
The Case Against Contemporary Design
The designer in the TikTok video makes a compelling argument against contemporary interior design, focusing on its lack of warmth and its tendency to feel more suited to commercial spaces, like offices or hotel lobbies, than to homes. She points out that the style’s reliance on shiny, glossy finishes and minimalist aesthetics can create a cold, impersonal atmosphere that lacks the comfort and character of other design styles, such as mid-century modern or rustic decor. This critique is particularly relevant as homeowners increasingly prioritize creating warm, inviting spaces that reflect their personal tastes and lifestyles.
Moreover, the designer argues that contemporary design is quick to go out of style, which she attributes to its reliance on trendy elements that can become outdated. She suggests that while the style may be marketed as luxurious and high-end, it often lacks the timeless appeal of more classic design styles. The video also touches on common mistakes people make when trying to incorporate contemporary elements into their homes, such as pairing sleek, modern furniture with rustic decor, which can result in a clashing contrast. The designer’s critique has struck a chord with many viewers, resonating with those who feel that contemporary design can feel sterile and unwelcoming.
Expert Opinions: A Divided Perspective
The TikTok video has sparked a divided response from interior design professionals. Some, like Alecia Taylor of CabinetNow, agree with the critique of contemporary design. Taylor notes that high-gloss finishes, once a hallmark of modern aesthetics, are now often seen as cold and overly commercial. She observes that current design trends are shifting toward warmer materials and matte finishes, which are not only more inviting but also more practical, as they hide fingerprints and smudges more effectively. Taylor also highlights the growing popularity of natural textures and earthy colors, which she believes are more associated with comfort and nature.
However, not all designers share this negative view of contemporary design. Elena DeStefano of Atelier Interiors argues that contemporary design is more versatile than critics give it credit for. She believes that while the style may be sleek and minimalist, it can also create warm and inviting spaces when paired with the right textures and architectural elements. DeStefano challenges the idea that contemporary design is inherently cold, pointing out that it can be made to feel cozy and welcoming with thoughtful design choices. She also disputes the notion that contemporary design is the fastest to go out of style, arguing that true contemporary design is constantly evolving and can stand the test of time if it embraces minimalism and clean lines.
The Evolution of Interior Design Trends
The debate over contemporary design reflects a broader shift in interior design trends, as homeowners increasingly prioritize warmth, comfort, and personality in their spaces. In recent years, there has been a noticeable move away from the sleek, minimalist aesthetics that defined contemporary design toward more organic, natural materials and decorative elements. This shift is evident in the growing popularity of earthy colors, natural wood, and matte finishes, which are seen as more inviting and timeless. At the same time, high-gloss finishes, once a staple of contemporary design, are being used more judiciously, often as accent pieces rather than dominant features.
This shift in design trends is also reflected in the increasing popularity of hybrid styles, which blend elements from different design movements to create unique, layered spaces. For example, combining contemporary furniture with rustic decor or natural textiles can result in a space that feels both modern and cozy. However, as the TikTok video points out, these combinations can be challenging to execute successfully, and the key to pulling them off lies in finding a unifying thread that ties the different elements together. When done well, such combinations can create a sophisticated, inviting space that reflects the best of both worlds.
The Role of Personal Choice in Interior Design
The debate over contemporary design ultimately highlights the importance of personal choice in interior design. While some people may find contemporary design cold and impersonal, others may appreciate its sleek, minimalist aesthetic and the sense of sophistication it brings to a space. Similarly, while some designers may prefer the warmth and coziness of mid-century modern or rustic styles, others may enjoy experimenting with contemporary elements to create a unique, modern look. The key to successful interior design lies in understanding the client’s lifestyle, preferences, and needs, and tailoring the design accordingly.
Moreover, the debate over contemporary design reflects the dynamic nature of interior design, which is constantly evolving in response to changing tastes, technologies, and lifestyles. As design trends continue to shift, it will be interesting to see how contemporary design adapts and whether it can find a way to incorporate more warmth and personality while maintaining its sleek, modern aesthetic. For now, the conversation sparked by the TikTok video serves as a reminder that interior design is as much about personal expression as it is about aesthetics, and that there is no one "right" way to design a space.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Interior Design
The future of interior design is likely to be shaped by a continued emphasis on warmth, comfort, and sustainability. As homeowners increasingly prioritize creating inviting, personality-filled spaces, designers may need to think creatively about how to incorporate contemporary elements in a way that feels cozy and welcoming. This might involve pairing sleek, modern furniture with natural textures, earthy colors, and decorative elements that add depth and character to a space. At the same time, the growing awareness of sustainability is likely to influence design choices, with a greater emphasis on eco-friendly materials and timeless pieces that can be enjoyed for years to come.
The debate over contemporary design also reminds us that interior design is not just about following the latest trends, but about creating spaces that reflect the people who inhabit them. Whether through the clean lines of contemporary design, the warmth of mid-century modern, or the charm of rustic decor, the goal of interior design is to create spaces that feel like home. As design trends continue to evolve, it will be exciting to see how contemporary design adapts and whether it can find a way to balance its sleek, modern aesthetic with the warmth and personality that so many homeowners crave.
