What makes modern interior design look good depends on whom you ask. There’s a lot of artistic choices involved and we all know that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. So what might look incredibly stylish and minimalistic to one person might look bleak and dreary to someone else. Nonetheless, beauty isn’t completely subjective and there are certain things that make contemporary design look good.

According to San Francisco Design, modern designs are all about “emphasizing a few key pieces without overwhelming the space.”

Less. Is. More.

Keep. It. Simple. 

Don’t. Overdo. It.

The San Francisco Design team explains that modernism goes incredibly well with minimalism. So when you’re picking out furniture and other design pieces, try to focus on simplistic and functional things.

“Modern style incorporates bold and rigidly structured design in a captivating way. In your home, focus on bold, sharp edges to add the angular structures that are so characteristic of modern design,” they explain, suggesting that we also look at edges and angles and how they fit in with the entire space.

Meanwhile, when it comes to modern materials, you should aim for those that give off a clean and straightforward energy. Stainless steel, muted metal, and glass are materials that can modernize your home and make you look like a real interior design expert. And don’t forget about wood!