Contemporary elegance: transform your space with trendsetting furniture & art

Contemporary elegance in furniture and art is characterised by sleek lines, minimalism, and premium materials that exude sophistication. Now, with the advent and advancement of technology, the expansion of design parameters has enabled previously farfetched designs to be created to help achieve this look. 

“We’ve seen the emergence of innovative designs, unconventional materials and bold aesthetics that challenge traditional norms without compromising on functionality,” shares Parterre director Richard Haigh. “Contemporary elegance achieves a balance between innovation and timeless design via the blending of cutting-edge technologies with prevailing design principles and predilections.”

An example of a range pushing boundaries is Parterre’s Organix range by Royal Botania, with its organic curves and endless configuration potential; it stands out for its ability to instantly imbue a space with elegance.  

Elegance indoors and out

When it comes to outdoor spaces, we’ve seen a trend towards a blurring of lines, whereby homeowners want the same level of refinement as their interior spaces. This means a clear move towards customisable modular designs, allowing individuals to tailor their surroundings to their unique tastes and lifestyles. 

 “Versatility has emerged as a critical drawcard in modern contexts,” shares Haigh. “We take great pride in empowering our clients to configure their dream suites, offering a luxury shopping experience that extends seamlessly from showroom floor to ultimate placement on-site.”

In indoor spaces the trend for customisation is just as prevalent, and Parterre is particularly adept at assisting clients to create bespoke solutions. 

“Ultimately, we implore our clients to honour their specific tastes; evidenced by the endless customisation potential of our ranges; though certain principles will ensure the harmony of elements in any environment.”

According to Haigh, establishing a cohesive design vision is the most important principal, which involves considering the overall aesthetic, palette, and function of the space. Integrating old with new is another key tenet in creating a dynamic yet balanced space. 

“Layering textures, playing with scale, and incorporating complementary colours can help integrate different styles effectively. Additionally, strategic incorporation of statement pieces with ample space to breathe will mitigate the risk of a space feeling overwhelming.”

The role of material selection in contemporary design

Material selection plays a pivotal role in crafting contemporary and elegant furniture pieces, particularly in outdoor settings. The use of luxury textiles aligns with design trends, pushing the boundaries of what is traditionally expected in outdoor environments. 

“In today's design landscape, luxurious yet resilient textiles are particularly popular, namely Royal Botania’s Boucle category, delightfully confounding our clients with its application to outdoor environments,” shares Haigh. 

The strategic use of materials serves to elevate outdoor furniture to new levels of sophistication, but it’s not only important to consider quality and aesthetics when it comes to material choice.

“With increasing awareness of our environmental responsibility, no longer can we ignore the impact of mass production and irresponsible production processes. Parterre actively aligns with brands that exemplify this commitment, namely TUUCI, Gommaire and Royal Botania.  

“TUUCI has set high standards to minimise material waste while maintaining premium quality. Product components are 100% recyclable and shipping is streamlined to save on energy and fuel; Gommaire emphasises sustainability via the use of repurposed materials, and prioritisation of durability to reduce waste; similarly, Royal Botania’s sustainable business model demonstrates eco-consciousness through the use of responsibly sourced teak wood, creating new plantations and energy-efficient manufacturing processes.”

These practices align with industry trends favouring eco-friendly materials and practices, driving a shift towards more sustainable and environmentally responsible design.

Incorporating trendsetting furniture & art effectively

To successfully incorporate furniture and art into a space, it’s crucial to establish a cohesive design vision and to balance contemporary pieces with timeless elements, says Haigh. 

“By strategically selecting focal pieces that complement rather than compete with each other, one can achieve a harmonious blend of bold design and elegance. Incorporating elements of varying scales, textures, and colours while maintaining simplicity elsewhere helps create visual interest without overpowering the space.”

Additionally, allowing ample breathing room for statement pieces and maintaining a cohesive colour palette contribute to a sense of refinement amidst bold choices.

In the realm of art, contemporary elegance is manifested through minimalist yet impactful compositions. 

“When considering our very own Gardeco art collections, we’ve noticed a focus on abstract forms and geometric shapes, with the work of prominent artists Vera Borghgraef, Guido Deleu, and Armando Di Nunzio revealing a celebration of natural form, and an exploration of space, light, and texture.”

Finally, to make a statement with furniture and art without overwhelming the space, Haigh stresses the importance of carefully considering each item in the space. 

“Overall, a thoughtful approach to mixing styles and pieces ensures a cohesive and harmonious design that reflects personal style while also embracing evolving design trends.”

Explore art and furniture from Parterre