by Melissa Miles McCarter

Created on: February 24, 2010   Last Updated: February 25, 2010

Contemporary style is marked by sleek lines and simplicity combined with efficient elements.  Function is primary with form and style reflecting what works best.  Everything is meant for ease of use and low maintenance.  Here are ten tips for decorating your kitchen in a contemporary style:

Lack of clutter and ornamentation, minimum accessories.  This means a good amount of storage to keep counter space clear. 

IKEA makes great kitchen storage in a contemporary style to keep your kitchen looking spacious and clear.

Less is more when it comes to windows.  Light is important in the contemporary style, but you don’t need window treatments that block out light or interfere with your view.  Think about vertical blinds or even simple Roman shades.

Sleek linear style is needed and having one color theme throughout the kitchen can help establish this style.  Don’t have lots of colors - perhaps black and white or black and silver with one splash of color on one wall to keep your kitchen looking simple and clean.

Another way to maintain the contemporary style is with use of glass.  Glass cabinet doors or glass table tops can make your kitchen look sleek.  However, glass makes it imperative to not have clutter and to keep your kitchen clean and clear.

Use stainless steel appliances for a neat sleek contemporary look.  The more modern the better in terms of appliances, but make sure that you don’t have too many small appliances cluttering counter-tops.

Light under cabinets or inside cabinets can really help the contemporary feel.  Halogen lights keep the feel of your kitchen clean, but avoid big light fixtures or anything that takes away from the simple feel of your room.

Eco-friendly touches are important - think about sustainable woods or bamboo for cabinets or floor surfaces.  Low odor paint is also a great option to help this modern contemporary feel.

Tile can be used for backsplash or sometimes for floors in the contemporary style, but remember to use a simple design.

 Avoid rugs or anything decorative that takes away from your simple style.  If you need a rug or placemats, think about bamboo style.

If you want a nice accessory that adds a fresh contemporary style, think about a simple orchid or bird of paradise in a sleek glass vase to make your room look complete.

Learn more about this author, Melissa Miles McCarter.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.