Sculptural Furniture
Consider furnishings with designs that serve as art unto themselves. These wire counter stools by Bend bring a modern touch—and a pop of color to the kitchen.
Geometric Patterns
Accent pillows with graphic patterns add a contemporary touch to any couch or bed. This design with metallic thread is hand-woven by artisans in Rajasthan, India. Langdon Hex Pillow ($168).
Clean Lines
These bright white square containers elegantly frame your plants, allowing them to take center stage. Blox Galvanized Hi-Gloss White Planters (from $24.95; powder coated galvanized steel).
Unconventional Art Placement
Sometimes what's modern about an object is its placement. Here, a colorful portrait adds contrast and intrigue to a black-and-white bathroom.
Playful Utility
Modern décor can be fun, too. This three-pound porcelain bookend masquerades as a lightweight balloon. (And is sure to induce smiles from houseguests.) Balloon Animal Dog Bookend ($49).
Mural Art
In our Los Angeles Idea house, the designers printed photographic wallpaper through designyourwall.com. Tip: They increased the exposure of the photo (by Laure Joliet) until the sky was white enough to blend with the ceiling.
Electric Art
Hearts are forever, especially illuminated ones. These neon pieces add a joyful and modern glow above a console. Neon Loves Red ($299; includes wall-mounting hardware).
Unconventional Shapes
Look for decorative objects in unexpected shapes. These glazed earthenware vases buck the round-shaped vase tradition, acting as much as tabletop sculptures as they do for flower vessels. Totem Vases (from $24).
Metallic Accessories
Bright colors and finishes can put a modern spin on a traditional design. These metallic globes might even get the kiddos excited about geography class. Decorative Globe ($38).
Moody Palette
Go bold with dark colors. Here, a velvet indigo wing chair exudes quiet drama against an ebony-stained TV cabinet.
