When I hear the word modern, I think about crisp, clean lines, big open spaces and lots of neutral colors. At least, this is my impression of what modern home decor means, but it is great that you can find a basic guide to modern decorating by simply doing an online search.

But ultimately, there is so much more to the modern home decor theme than meets the eye. The underlying theme of the modernist style is getting the most functionality in any room of your house. Instead of filling up every inch with bric-a-brac, modern stylists want uncluttered spaces to help relax the eye and give freedom of movement.

Lighting is also an important element of the modern home. Instead of using smallish lamps and light fixtures, opt for bright white lighting or big windows that let in natural light from the outside. Look for sleek and shiny lighting fixtures instead of, say, crystal chandeliers to adorn a room.

For the walls, you can pick classic white or any other neutral hue such as gray, off-white or beige. This lets the eye focus on each of the decorative items in the room. Finally, go for furniture that has mostly crisp lines such as a straight-backed couch. Liven up the look by choosing more colorful items to accessorize the room.

Modern minimalist decorating is dramatic and impressive when properly approached. Despite popular opinion, modern minimalist decorating is not bare bones but rather everything in the room has a specific function. People seeking an organized oasis away from the cluttered chaos of the world will appreciate modern minimalist decorating.

To be sure we get it right, let’s first consider what each of the terms modern and minimalist mean to avoid confusion.

Modern is not the same as contemporary, which is a time period, while modern is a lifestyle. Designer Rob Forbes aptly describes modern as, “a progressive attitude that takes advantage of new technology and social purpose. It’s a disciplined approach…simplifies our living…is honest and helps you not be distracted by stuff that have no meaning to you.”

Minimalist does not necessarily go hand in hand with modern because it can be retro, too, so minimalist warrants a completely separate definition before it gets married to modern. The minimalist movement in art and design was born during post World War II during a back to basics time believed works were there because they existed and simple living was most relaxed and comfortable.

Modern minimalist works when it reflects your favorite colors and shapes without being boring. When you decorate in a modern minimalist manner, you are setting up your space to suit the way you live. Everything you incorporate has a purpose and a place. In modern minimalist decorating, you can create a warm yet serviceable environment in your home that has incredible welcoming appeal by using – or not using – color and texture.

Powerful color is not used to create drama in modern minimalist decorating. Cool whites and neutrals are used on walls, furniture and floors. Whites are based with coral, green and teal hues. Light is used to play off smooth, white walls. The architectural features of your living quarters are visible.

Heavy textures are not used in modern minimalist decorating. Soft, smooth fabrics, leather upholstery and shiny cabinetry are the basis of successful modern minimalist decorating. Floors are shiny and smooth. Moldings are linear and unnoticeable.

With a bit of clarity and a sense of your greatest necessities, you can create an alluring modern minimalist environment that isn’t sterile or stark. In fact, by removing items you no longer need or use you will feel a sense of accomplishment and calm about your living environment. Modern minimalist decorating allows you to revel in clean lines and an open, spacious feel.