A contemporary home features a clean, contemporary style with black and white interiors. They often feature glass and metal accents and open floor plans. They are also generally larger than modern houses, but still feature high ceilings and hanging light fixtures. This style of house is also more energy efficient than its more modern counterpart.
Clean lines

Contemporary and modern houses often feature clean lines and are both minimalist and spacious. Architects in both styles focus on functional design with minimal decorative elements. These homes often have large windows and open floor plans. These houses are also usually simple with minimal materials. While modern and contemporary homes have many similarities, each style has its own unique characteristics.

Contemporary and modern homes often use earthy colors to ground the spaces. However, they may also have splashes of bold colors in the interior. However, these colors should be complementary and not overpowering. Additionally, contemporary homes often feature functional art and artwork.
Smooth textures

Contemporary houses are known for their clean, sleek lines and smooth textures. They use neutral shades throughout and pops of color are added with decor or art. They use a lot of wood and light wood in their interiors and emphasize smooth textures. Flooring is also very popular in contemporary homes, especially wood-styled vinyl. You can also use rugs to soften certain areas without drowning them in texture. Ceramic tiles will look out of place in a contemporary home.

Contemporary homes feature large windows and a minimalist style. Colors used are typically white or black. They also use metallic finishes and glass. Contemporary homes have open floor plans and high ceilings. They also have hanging light fixtures.
Indoor-outdoor connection

The difference between contemporary and modern houses lies in the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. A contemporary house often features an open floor plan and large, irregular windows. Its exterior also features bold geometric shapes and asymmetrical floor plans. Its materials are also contemporary, often borrowing from a variety of historical styles. Contemporary houses also tend to use more environmentally friendly materials. For example, bamboo flooring is common, and it is also possible to find contemporary houses with attractive granite countertops.

Contemporary houses usually have a great deal of glazed openings, which are an integral part of the design. They are also able to maximize natural ventilation and make a room feel larger. The best contemporary houses will also include a variety of outdoor spaces. These are typically arranged outdoors so that the occupants can enjoy the natural landscape around them.
Sustainable materials

In recent years, there has been an increasing trend toward using sustainable building materials in contemporary and modern houses. Not only do these materials give a home a unique look and feel, but they also have a positive effect on the environment. For example, one home in Santa Monica was constructed using shipping containers. Though such buildings are not for everyone, the trend toward sustainable materials in house construction is growing.

In addition to using natural building materials, sustainable materials can help you reduce your energy bill. For instance, using HempCrete to build your house will reduce the amount of concrete blocks that need to be manufactured. HempCrete is made from woody hemp plant fibers, which are strong and durable. Another material that can make an impact on your carbon footprint is bamboo, a low-energy building material that can be harvested sustainably.