Modern Furniture Archives | Page 2 of 2

How to Choose a Contemporary Bed Frame

By Mike WallmanFurniture

For many people, selecting the perfect bed frame for the master bedroom is not any easy decision. You may know your mattress size, but it can be difficult to know which colors and materials will work best with your accent furniture, or which style will tie the room together.

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed about picking a bed frame, we have the guide for you! The experts at San Francisco Design have a list of tips to help you rest easy. Keep reading to learn more:

How to Find the Perfect Modern Bed Frame For Your Master Bedroom

Tip #1: Pick a Theme

Choosing the perfect bed frame is infinitely easier if you have a theme for your master bedroom. While your bedroom should follow the same decorating style as the rest of your home, we recommend adding something unique. Many homeowners and seasoned decorators today pick a modern or contemporary style for their home and master bedroom. Not only is the contemporary style easy to accessorize and perfect in its simplicity, many bed frames today are built in the same style. Contemporary bed frames are sleek, simple, and effortlessly chic.

No matter the style you choose, your bed frame should match your theme without going overboard. A bed frame doesn’t need matching dressers, nightstands and more to make it unique; in fact, it should be the focal point of the space.

Tip #2: Measure your Mattress

If you’re planning to keep your same mattress and upgrade your bedframe, it’s important to measure your mattress beforehand. Consider the height and bulk of your mattress to ensure that the bed frame you purchase will complement it. Some mattress sizes vary in measurements (like a California King bed verses a regular King-sized), so it’s best to be safe before you purchase your bed frame.

Tip #3: Measure the Size of Your Master Bedroom

After you measure the size of your mattress, it’s time to consider the size of your master bedroom. The perfect modern bed frame and headboard may take up more space you’re your mattress—without the proper planning, you could end up with more than you bargained for. At San Francisco Design, we recommend planning for your contemporary bed frame by keeping at least 2 feet of room around the sides and end of your bed. That way, your bed frame will never feel like it’s taking up too much room.

It’s also crucial to consider the height of the bed frame before you buy it. If you’d like to sleep lower to the ground, look for a modern platform bed or a more low-profile bed frame. Add a box spring or choose a bedframe with more height for a taller bed.

Tip #4: Consider the Bed Frame Material

Most bed frames today are made from wood or metal. Because the main difference between the two options is appearance, the decision is largely down to personal preference. Opt for the material that works best with the theme of your bedroom.

Regardless of the material you choose, ensure that it’s sturdy. The most essential function of your bed frame is to support your mattress, so choosing one made from materials that are both aesthetically pleasing and sturdy will give you the best results.

Tip #5: Quality

Perhaps the most important consideration when choosing a contemporary bed frame is quality, as the quality of your sleep goes hand-in-hand with the quality of your bed frame.

Our experts strongly suggest inspecting the overall quality of your bed frame before you make a purchase. Choosing a cheaper bed frame may leave you not only with a style you’re unsatisfied with, but with something that doesn’t last longer than a few months. In the end, you could find yourself spending much more money on cheap bed frames than if you would have gone for high quality in the beginning.

A truly high-quality bed frame may have a bigger price tag, but it’s a great investment in the long run. Luxury bed frames are generally made from materials that can stand the test of time, like solid wood or sturdy metal. Ones like this contemporary leather bed frame are both classic and modern, fitting perfectly into the style of any home.

Tip #6: Find Something Unique

You know better than anyone that the master bedroom is generally the last one to be decorated; the kitchen, the living room, and the entryway are always accessorized first. But why? Humans on average spend one third of their lives sleeping, over 25 years in most cases. With that much time spent in bed, you deserve a bed frame that is one-of-a-kind.

Don’t go for the drab bed frame that makes you want to spend your time anywhere else. Instead, choose something that makes you want to jump into bed at the end of the day, excited for a night of quality sleep. We love floating platform bed frames that give the illusion of a levitating bed—it can’t get any more unique!

Contemporary Bed Frames at San Francisco Design

Choosing the perfect bed frame for you can be difficult, but it’s easier than you think. Our best advice? Choose a bed frame that’s timeless. That’s why we love the modern style—it’s here to stay. If you’re looking for a bed frame to stand the test of time, one of superior quality and completely unique, look no further than San Francisco Design. See our online selection of modern, contemporary bed frames online, or visit one of our stores in Salt Lake City or Park City, Utah today!

November 17, 2020

Unique Modern Furniture Found Only At Our Salt Lake Store

By Mike WallmanFurniture, Salt Lake City

Shopping for furniture in Utah can be a difficult process. Not only is it tough to find furniture that’s high quality and fits your home, it’s even tougher to find pieces that are unique.

If you really want to differentiate yourself from your neighbors, we recommend shopping for modern furniture. Not only is the modern style unique, it fits into every home with breathtaking results.

At San Francisco Designs, we pride ourselves on our offerings of unique modern furniture. No matter what you’re looking for, we are sure that our Salt Lake City store has furniture that will set you apart and leave your guests awestruck. With that, here are 6 modern pieces from our Salt Lake showroom unlike anything you’ve ever seen.

Modern Pieces from our Salt Lake City Store You Can’t Find Anywhere Else

#1: The Madison Extensible Coffee Table

If you’re looking for a living room centerpiece that’s truly unforgettable, the Madison Coffee Table is your solution. Equipped with an innovative double-synchronized mechanism, this modern coffee table allows all 4 tops to be opened at once. With just a simple gesture, you can adjust the placement of the tabletops at any time.

That’s not all, however. Many aspects of the Madison can be specially crafted for your home. Whether you’d prefer 4 glass or ceramic tops, or supports in painted or chromed steel, we can customize the Madison Modern Coffee Table any way you’d like!

#2: The Stella Chandelier

There’s nothing more dazzling than the Stella Modern Chandelier at San Francisco Design. Produced in Italy by Reflex, this chandelier is as unique as it gets. Its pendant stars are crafted from Pirex glass and internal bulbs, each light its own masterpiece.

The Stella isn’t just a one-size-fits all chandelier—it’s available with 5 to 150 stars. Not only is it the perfect chandelier for a modern dining room, it’s perfect for the hallway, bedroom, or anywhere in between. This beautiful piece of modern innovation can only be found at our Salt Lake City, Utah store.

#3 The Neolithic Modern Dining Table

A sophisticated dining table with a unique curved glass base, the Neolithic Dining Table at San Francisco Design is certainly one-of-a-kind. Whether you need a dining table with seating for 6 or an accent table for your entryway, the Neolitico is the perfect option for those looking for an awe-inspiring piece. Found only at our store in SLC, this look of sculptural grandeur is all you need to transform your home.

Not only is this contemporary dining table ultra-unique, it can be customized to fit your specific needs. With options to customize the base shape, base material, and glass thickness, you can make the Neolithic Modern Dining Table uniquely yours.

#4: The Atlantis Crystalart Contemporary Dining Table

If you’re looking for a modern dining table that shows your artistic flare, this is the table for you. The Atlantis is one of a kind, made with a titanium, bronze, graphite, or black embossed lacquered steel base and feet in black chrome. With artistic decorative printing in two different colors, this contemporary table is a true showstopper.

#5: The Karl Modern Italian Leather Sofa

At San Francisco Design, we pride ourselves on offering furniture that fuses the world of fashion with modern sophistication. The Karl Sofa is no different. Designed with deep seats and wonderfully yielding backrests, this modern leather sofa isn’t just an eye-catcher—it’s comfortable beyond belief.

One of the standout hallmarks of this modern sofa is its armrest. Drawing inspiration from elegant handbags, the armrest of the Karl sofa has been sculpted to boost practicality with a fashionable compartment of the side of the sofa. Storage has never been so sleek!

A new “blade stand” base and the clever combination of silhouette, size and stitched details combine to create a stunning contemporary sofa. Learn more about the Karl Modern Italian Leather Sofa or customize your own at our Salt Lake City store today.

#6: The Quasar Extensible Dining Table

You’ve never seen a dining table quite like this one. A sleek and elegant statement piece for any modern dining area, the Quasar instantly transforms any home. This extendable glass dining table is equipped with a synchronized mechanism with lateral extensions for widening and central extension lifting.

The Quasar contemporary innovation can be customized with a glass or ceramic top, or it can be motorized for an additional charge. Further pricing and options for the Quasar Extensible Dining Table can be found on our website.

Modern Furniture at San Francisco Design

At San Francisco Design, we believe that every piece of furniture tells a story, as exceptional as the person who owns it. No matter your style, the furniture in your home should be uniquely yours. Tell your story through any of these modern pieces, available only at our Salt Lake City furniture store. Stop by our showroom today to get started!

October 1, 2020

The Sofa Buying Guide that Helps You Find the Perfect Fit

By Mike WallmanInterior Design Tips

When it comes to sofas, the options are endless. How do you find a quality sofa in a sea of endless choices? The interior design experts at San Francisco Design put together the perfect quality sofa buying guide for homeowners like you.

It seems like everywhere you turn, there is a different sofa for you to buy—newly popular designs, vintage sofas, sectionals, sleepers, leather couches, and fabric. Where you turn when choosing a sofa will largely determine whether you get a sofa you love or buyer’s remorse.You might think you know exactly what you want, but there might be a few factors you forget. On the other hand, you could be researching how to buy a good leather sofa. Whatever the case may be, following our sofa buying guide will save you the time and frustration many homeowners experience on their quest to find the perfect couch.

It is time for you to stop pinning images of your favorite sofas on your Pinterest dream home board and browse these tips for buying a quality sofa. This guide includes best fabrics, sofa colors, leather sofa, and more for a collection of sofa shopping tips that will help you find your perfect fit.

Let’s get into it.

4 Tips for Buying the Perfect Sofa

1. Remember that Size Matters

In the world of interior design, size matters, especially when selecting a sofa. You should assess the size of the room you plan on putting a sofa before you go sofa shopping. Ask yourself, how much of your living room you want to fill, and how much you want untouched? If you have a small living room, you will need a smaller sofa and vice-versa. Understanding your space limit will help you narrow your search and which shape will work inside the space best.

A few other questions include whether you will add a coffee table to your layout, side tables, or accessory chairs. If you plan on doing so, our experts suggest looking simple sofa design or those that feature a slight L-shape. However, if your sofa will be the focal point of the room, you can choose more dramatic shapes and intricate designs.

2. Visualize the Arrangement

Another factor you should consider before sofa shopping is how you will arrange your furniture. Decide how you will orient your sofa and other larger furniture items. Some considerations you might make is which layout would work best for your lifestyle. If you like watching TV, perhaps your sofa will work best in front of the television.

If you are outfitting a formal living area where you plan on entertaining future guests, a semi-circle arrangement around a coffee table will work well. Visualizing your living room’s furniture layout ahead of time will allow you to make an educated choice that will better fit your space.

3. Research Shape and Material

The next step you will need to take it, choosing the shape and material of your sofa. Using your past conclusions, you can decide which sofa shape and material will help fulfill its function. Will a sectional keep your space open while still dividing the area up by purpose? Should you find a rounder shaped sofa that will work well in social gatherings?

You can also determine which material would also work best for your sofa, depending on whether the space is formal or informal. Upholstered sofas are typically more comfortable and work well in informal living rooms. Some of the best fabrics for sofas include natural fibers like linen, wool, cotton, and leather. Synthetic fibers also used on the sofa are polyester, nylon, acrylic, olefin, and vinyl.

Here are some key questions to ask before deciding which sofa material is best for your home:

Do you have young children?
Do you have any pets?
How would you use your sofa? Do you eat on it? Do you lie down on it a lot?
Do allergies concern you or your family?
How much maintenance are you prepared to do for your new sofa?

There are benefits and downsides to each choice. Research your options to make the best choice.

4. Shop for Your Style

Now that you know what you want, it is time for the fun part—sofa shopping. Look around for a sofa that fits all the parameters you determined beforehand, as well as one that matches your style. You can browse your sofa options online, especially as you narrow your options based on aesthetics and style.

It would help if you also visited local furniture stores to get a first-hand look at your choices in-person. You will also have a chance to sit on the sofa to determine whether it is comfortable enough for your lifestyle. Luckily, there are doing the legwork you already did before shopping will help you find the sofa that offers the best bang for your buck (and looks beautiful, too).

Modern and Contemporary Sofas at San Francisco Design

With so many different sofas, finding your perfect fit may seem overwhelming. San Francisco Design offers a selection of the best quality sofas for homes in your area. There are various styles, brands, and designs that will make your dream home come to life!

Our contemporary sofas, couches, ottomans, and chairs look great without sacrificing comfort. Please browse our online store to see a few of our hand-selected items that are in-stock and ready to ship. You can also visit our stores in Salt Lake City and Park City to see what else we have on-hand.

Get started on outfitting your living room with the latest sofa designs today.

September 9, 2020

How to Combine Traditional and Modern Furniture: A Guide

By Mike WallmanInterior Design Tips

Sleek lines, minimalist décor, clean finishes, and mixed-in traditional details? Combining traditional and modern home furniture may seem like a challenging blend to perfection. However, when done correctly, the combination creates a unique, multi-layered space.

One of the perks of blending traditional and modern interior design styles is developing a personal style you won’t see in other homes. Unfortunately, the challenge intimidates most people. It’s a risk, but it also has a very high reward. Let’s discuss the basics of each interior design style to better understand how to mix the two for a cohesive design.

What is Traditional Style Decorating?

The traditional design is calm, orderly, and predictable. Consider comforting styles and classic designs when you think about traditionally styled interiors. Your family home growing up might have even been styled in traditional furnishings. Traditional homes are somewhat casual, with every piece going together. It’s all about function and ease. Here are a few traditional design staples:

A mixture of vertical and horizontal lines
Muted fabrics that include small patterns, tone-on-tone color palettes, and understated textures
Mid-range colors that aren’t very dark or too light
An overall ambiance that is homey and comfortable
Wood furniture with a combination of straight and curved lines
Glossy white trim and molding
Matching furniture that features a simplistic look

What is Modern Interior Design?

Modern design is one of the most misinterpreted styles in interior design, with people often using it when defining contemporary design. The popular modern designs of today feature heavy textures, ornamentation, and contrasting elements. One defining component of modern design is its minimalistic touch. Modern designs heavily rely on a lack of fussiness. Think of clean lines, neutral colors, and boldly designed furniture. Here are a few modern interior design styles that most designers use in their spaces:

Modern furniture made from natural materials
Clean lines and simplistic hues
Metallic elements
Windows are usually left unadorned with an abundance of natural light
Heavy textures
Minimal accessories

Merging two unlikely styles could result in chaos if not planned out in advance. That’s why the interior design experts at San Francisco Design in Utah have compiled a few tips to help you combine traditional and modern furniture for the perfect set-up.

Let One Style Dominate

Traditional and modern décor differ dramatically. That’s why letting one style dominate the space is the key to making the blend work. Decide which style fits your space best, and let it rule your furniture choices. Then, you can blend a few items of the other style. Once you figure it out, you will have a traditional space with modern accents or a modernized design with traditional pieces.

Consider Each Piece’s Visual Attributes

As you pick out furniture, look at each item in detail. Consider the visual attributes of the piece. What attracts you to the article? Do you admire the color? Texture? Shape? There is no wrong answer. By defining what draws you to each piece of furniture, you can find a way to weave your collection together. This will allow you to tie the styles together seamlessly.

Pick Harmony or Contrast

Another essential thing to consider is whether you want to create harmony between the two styles or contrast. Each has its benefits. However, balance creates a more calming look, while contrast creates visual excitement. You can narrow down your choices by deciding which you want in your space.

Tie Items Together

As mentioned, you want to find a way to tie pieces together to create an overall look and feel. While you could use contrast as your guiding light, you must find a balance between the two styles. You can tie the two interior design styles together by using the same colors, textures, patterns, or shapes.

Interior Decorating with San Francisco Design

Contact our team if you need help pulling together a modern and traditional space. You can also visit our online store for design inspiration and a look at our modern and traditional furniture collection. Our Utah interior designers will help you make your space your own. Get in touch with us today to get started.

August 3, 2020

How to Choose Leather Furniture

By Mike WallmanFurniture

Leather will forever be a staple in interior design, no matter the style. Although the designs that use leather materials will vary, there is no denying that leather furniture will always look timeless. Unfortunately, buying modern leather furniture isn’t as easy as it seems. Take a quick walk through of a furniture store, and you might even get overwhelmed with the endless leather options.

As you probably know, leather is made of cured and tanned cattle hides. But the process after that provides the industry with hundreds of options. If you have ever shopped for leather furniture, you probably encountered some new vocabulary—grain, genuine leather, aniline, and more. It can be an all-consuming project.

That’s why the experts at San Francisco Design are here with a few tips to get you off to the races on your leather furniture quest. Here is what you should know.

Leather Furniture Buying Guide

Genuine Over Faux

Genuine leather looks good, feels fantastic, and has a laundry list of benefits compared to its faux offspring. When it comes to leather furniture, it is best to keep it in the authentic leather section. If you can get anything right from our advice, you should look for real leather furniture. The best tools for spotting genuine leather include the following:

Check the back of the furniture. Real leather furniture only comes in sizes of 3’ by 6’. If you don’t see any stitching of multiple pieces together on a large leather couch, that is a tell-tale sign it is fake.
Use price as a decent indication. Higher prices typically signify genuine leather, but there is no guarantee. You can speak with a professional for additional help spotting an authentic piece.
Check the tag. Most furniture tags include a detailed description of the type of leather used in the item.
Note texture and smell. You can also tell if the leather is genuine by looking at its texture and smell. The leather should be soft, warm to the touch, and have a rich and appealing aroma. Faux leather usually has an unpleasant chemical smell.
Look at the grain. The next way to spot faux and real leather is by assessing the grain. If it is all uniform, then the leather is probably fake. Genuine leather always has grain variations.
Look on the inside. If possible, check the reverse side. Genuine leather is unfinished on the backside, has no color, and includes a rougher feel.

Determine the Type of Leather You Like

Along with only having an interest in genuine leather, you will need to decide which type of leather suits your interior styling. Each different type of leather has a series of determining factors. You will need to understand why some leathers last longer and cost more and if cheaper options are worthwhile.

The leather highest in quality will depend on these important factors, including:

Type of animal and breed
Physical location and climate where the animal lived
The portion of the hide the leather was cut from (see diagram below)
The layer of the hide that is used (top-grain, full-grain, split)
Quality and skill of the processing and tanning

Different types of cattle will produce different qualities of leather. Other factors, such as body area, tanning, and finishing, will determine the type of leather available. The most notable leathers used in furniture include the following.

Types of Leather

Corrected Leather

This type of leather undergoes a sanding process that buffs out many natural variations. This process still holds its strength and variability but with less variety than top-grain leather. Corrected leather will also have less or none of the natural markings that full-grain leather has, which allows for a more uniform look. It is an excellent choice for homeowners who want a streamlined, modern interior style.

Top Grain Leather

While top-grain is the most authentic, it doesn’t mean it is superior to others. Usually, it includes natural grain, markings, and texture. The best way to remember top-grain leather is that it is like the top layer of your body, so it will have the most personality and imperfections. Top-grain leather sofas are durable as well as stain-resistant.

Full-Grain Leather

Similar to top-grain, full-grain leather does not undergo any correction. It is the most natural-looking leather of them all. The furniture using full-grain — including full-grain leather sofas, chairs, & more — will have beautiful variations and unique markings. It is an excellent choice for contemporary furniture. However, be aware that full-grain leather will absorb body oil, water, dirt, and moisture more than any other leather. If that bugs you, then opt for a different leather instead.

Aniline Leather

Aniline leather uses no pigment or corrections. You can see the beauty and natural characteristics of the leather in any furniture piece using aniline. It’s typically buttery, soft, and supple, developing a unique vintage patina over time. You will need to take care of this leather for it to age gracefully.

Semi-Aniline Leather

Semi-aniline leathers have a thin layer of wax applied after the dying process. This second application of wax results in a higher color uniformity than other leathers. Some prefer semi-aniline to the full monty because it ages beautifully and is less likely to fade over time.

Pick Leather Furniture that Matches Your Style

Now that you know the basics of leather furniture, you can find a type that will work well with your interior design style, whether modern, contemporary, transitional, or something else. Just remember that leather doesn’t always make a piece rustic. There are plenty of options that will look good in your home and fit your lifestyle.

Find the Right Leather Furniture for Your Home at San Francisco Design

While our leather sofa buying guide is foolproof, it’s easy to get overwhelmed when shopping for the perfect leather furniture for your home. If you need help finding leather furniture for your modern or contemporary space, trust San Francisco Design. Our interior design team can outfit you with furniture items that look beautiful and will fit your budget. You can also visit our online store for design inspiration and a look at our quality leather furniture collection. Get in touch with us today to get started.

July 7, 2020

Living room modern console table with modern lighting

5 Furniture Pieces You Need in Your Home

By Mike WallmanFurniture

The furniture in your home is the foundation for your home’s entire interior design. As such, you should find pieces that fit the style you love and give guests the feeling you want whenever they walk through the door. Selecting your furniture may seem like a challenge, but as you determine your needs and find inspiration from pictures and homes you visit, it will become easier than you think.

Modern furniture styles usually incorporate clean lines, efficient designs, and few adornments. Many new furniture pieces are turning heads among designers and homeowners alike. The interior designers at San Francisco Design rounded up our top five picks that every home needs included in their four walls.

These furniture items combine classic designs with updated twists that will fit perfectly inside any home. If you are interested in any of these products or want to look at other options, visit one of the San Francisco Design locations in Utah or browse our collection online.

5 Furniture Pieces Every Modern Home Needs

Vintage Leather Sofa

Leather sofas work well in any home. Not only is leather one of the most durable fabrics, but they are also extremely comfortable. Add a vintage twist to the leather sofa style, and you will discover the beauty of modern interior design. Vintage leather sofas typically include all the makings of modern home design. You can also choose the type of leather that would best fit the room, whether it is your formal family room or an informal living room.

One option that you can consider is the Francis Leather Sofa that is pictured above. The Francis combines sophisticated functionality with a subtle lightness. You can select the couch as a soloist, corner sofa with a complementary footstool, or as an ultra-comfortable combination lounge. All in all, the Francis would be a soothing contrast to the everyday hustle of everyday life, as you calmly relax into your private oasis of calm and relaxation.

Upholstered Bed Frame

If you are looking for a bed frame and headboard that boasts a contemporary style? Look no further than an upholstered headboard and bed frame. Interior designers continue opting for upholstered bed frames for master bedrooms and guest rooms. The upholstered look adds sophistication to any space and is an ideal fit for any bedroom. All of these reasons and more make it top of the list for our furniture picks.

You can find your perfect fit in the Winston Upholstered Headboard and Bed Frame currently in stock on our website. Winston is the ideal centerpiece for any bedroom. This low-profile bed frame boasts a beautiful fabric upholstery and even comes with customizable features. The Winston is also available in different leather and fabric options, as well as both queen and king sizes. You can see it in-person by visiting one of our Utah store locations.

Modern Console

Another furniture staple you need in your home is a modern console table. A console table works well in the entrance of your home, an office, or alongside any empty wall. However, no console table well work, you will need to find a modern style that matches the look and feel of your home. Whether it has a glass top, wooden base, or anything in-between, a modernized console is sure to last for decades to come.

One option that our interior designers gravitate to when styling a home is the Westin by Cattelan Italia. This console table features an angular lacquered steel base with a warm top. It is a striking piece capable of impressing all visitors and adding character to any room. You can set it up t in your living room, dining room, or whichever space best suits it in your home. Not only will the unique design help complete any space, but it will give guests something to talk about when they visit your home.

Glass Dining Table

The next room in your home that needs updating is the dining room. The main furniture piece in this space will always and forever be the dining table. Fortunately, there are few styles greater than those that include a glass top. Glass dining tables add a touch of elegance to any home, which is why our team ranks it among the top five pieces you need in your home.

The Neolitico Dining Table is perhaps our favorite glass dining table in our showroom. This round dining table makes the perfect statement in any modern home. It seats up to 6 and fits most spaces. This ultra-modern piece flows with a uniquely-designed curved base and glass top. You can also use this table for other needs, whether it is in your formal dining room or somewhere else in your home. The dining table also features a top made from 24mm, 19mm, or 15mm glass. However you design your space, the Neolitico is the perfect option for those looking for an impressive piece.

Modernized Counter Stools

Most kitchens include an island that works well for informal seating. However, you can’t forget to outfit the room with furniture pieces that draw the eye and function well in the space. That is why you need to find counter stools designed in the modern style. You can find an array of options that look great and match your home’s aesthetics.

If you are looking for a counter stool that perfectly matches your modern kitchen, our team suggests the Wish Counter Height Stool. These seats (pictured above) also come in customizable options, including a variety of finishes, materials, fabrics, and leathers. Whether you want a fabric or leather stool, a brass powder-coated finish or brushed steel, the Wish Counter Stool has it all. Contact the San Francisco Design team to perfect your customized Wish Stool.

For additional help finding the furniture items that fit your modern home, contact San Francisco Design, or visit our showroom. Our team would love to help you find the perfect pieces for your space.

June 24, 2020

how to clean a modern sofa by San Francisco Design

The Latest and Greatest Modern Designs

By Mike WallmanInterior Design Trends

It’s no surprise that modern design continues to dominate the design landscape. Sleek, sophisticated, and minimal, the modern style is a perfect choice for any home. While other design styles have become old and outdated, contemporary design continues to be a driving force. Here are some of the latest and greatest aspects of modern design, as well as some style tips from our expert interior designers:

Curves and Smooth Edges

Perhaps one of the most notable shifts in modern design is the shift from clean to curves and smooth edges. That’s not to say clean, sharp lines aren’t used in modern style; in fact, many designers are combining minimalist sofas with curved accent chairs and office furniture. Incorporating both curves and sharp lines adds dimension and texture to a space, making it feel more like home.

Contemporary Fireplaces

One of our favorite modern trends is that of the contemporary fireplace. Forget the notion of bulky red-brick fireplaces, today’s fireplace is all about sleek simplicity. Many homeowners are opting for seamless fireplaces that blend into the wall but still brighten and enhance the space aesthetically. Not only are wall fireplaces an innovative accent to your contemporary living room, but they also require virtually no maintenance. Could it get any better than that?

Greenery

We’ve said it before, and we will say it again: adding greenery to your home is a fantastic way to bring color and authenticity into its interior. A word of advice? Our designers recommend that you accent your home with real greenery rather than faux plants. Not only do real indoor plants look more genuine, but they can also improve your health-boosting your mood and clearing toxins throughout the home. Try to pair your indoor greenery with a unique vase or container for that eye-catching effect.

Old and New in Harmony

Contrary to popular belief, contemporary design isn’t dependent on the concept of “new”. While the incorporation of unique accents is important, old is just as stylish as new. Take some of your trinkets from vacations past and pair them with new statement pieces for a design that puts others to shame.

Darker Kitchens

Modern kitchens of the past have incorporated white into their designs, often relying on the color white to do all the heavy lifting. From subway tiles to appliances, many contemporary kitchens have been realized in white over the years. However, the trend for an entirely white kitchen is falling by the wayside in wake of darker hues. Regal blues, emerald greens, wood tones, and everything in between serve to add depth to the most-used room in the home.

Personalize Your Space

Gone are the days of impersonal wall paintings. Today’s modern designs are unique because they have character. Own your space by decorating with things that mean something to you — don’t be afraid to let your personality show through the walls and decor. DIYing a light fixture here or displaying a personalized canvas there is the perfect way to make your space modern and unique.

Statement Furniture

More than ever, modern interior design is turning to furniture to be the focal point of every space. From living room to home office, the success of your contemporary design depends on your furniture. After all, furniture is the first thing the eyes are drawn to. However, finding modern furnishings with personality is no easy feat. Many contemporary pieces can be bland, dysfunctional, or just downright uncomfortable, making your space feel less like home and more like an awkward art exhibit. Luckily, pieces like these are the perfect combination of comfortable and contemporary.

San Francisco Design

No matter which aspects of modern design you would like to implement in your home, let San Francisco Design be of assistance. With contemporary furniture that ranges from leather sofas to modern bookcases, we have everything you need to transform your home. Our interior designers are experts in contemporary style and truly bring your unique vision to life. Visit our website to view our latest products or contact us today to schedule an appointment with a designer. We can’t wait to help you get started.

April 27, 2020

Chiavarina Chair Simplistic Kitchen Design

6 Classic Designs Making a Comeback

By Mike WallmanInterior Design Trends

Design experts continually look to the masses hoping to predict the up-and-coming trends. Most of the time, specialist publications do a great job rounding-up what is next on the docket. From modern furniture designs to contemporary twists, trends can be a hit or miss for many. However, sometimes the design industry can get so wrapped up in trying to create something “new” that we lose sight of the basics.

Basic designs should always include a myriad of things: quality and durability. If a designer is innovating something, they should never sacrifice one for the other. Instead, they must hit the sweet spot where both quality and durability meet. Quality and durability rely primarily on the materials and how the design incorporates them in the final product. Also, if you hope to keep your freshly acquired piece for years to come, customers need products that stand the test of time.

Along with finding attractive designs, these designs also respect the environment by lasting for many years. It is these eco-conscious decisions that will help push designers to create pieces that revolutionize the industry while appealing to consumers. If you hope to join us in the movement, here is where we see classic design transformed into the new modern world.

Giuseppe Gaetano Descalzi (known as Campanino), Chiavarina chair, 1807

According to some, Marquis Rivarola “brought with him a lightweight chair with a wicker seat from Paris … which had enjoyed great success … at the time of the French Directorate” (E. Bacceschi, 1986). That chair design spawned the “classic Chiavarina” which was used to furnish noble residences for over 150 years until it became the focal point of the great era of Fifties Milanese architecture. The chair was even used by Gardella, Caccia Dominioni, and Albini.

Today, manufacturers across the world sell the design in bulk. If you are looking to add this classic design into your home, make sure you find quality work. These chairs are an excellent option for minimalistic or Scandinavian interior designs.

Arne Jacobsen, Egg chair, Fritz Hansen, 1958

Perhaps one of the most infamous chair designs of the 20th century, the Egg Chair by Fritz Hansen was designed for the lounge of the SAS Royal Hotel in Copenhagen. It was a revolutionary design because of its extremely unique design, comfortable shape, and its thin inner shell. In the present day, it is still one of the most recognizable designs ever created.

Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni, Arco floor lamp, Flos, 1962

Speaking of classics, one of the most recognized objects in Italian design is the Arco floor lamp. Designed as a central ceiling light alternative, Arco is still used in homes everywhere. Named for its “arc,” the design also beams the light directly towards where it needs to shine. Whether you use it in a reading nook or for table lighting, it’s beam range is a major positive for accent lighting.

De Pas, D’Urbino, Lomazzi, Sciangai folding clothes stand, Zanotta, 1973

The 1970s was an era of design that transformed the way we saw the most ordinary household objects. One example of this is the Sciangai. The typological invention is reminiscent of the famous game of pick-up sticks and even won the Golden Compass Award in 1979. While the Sciangai might have initially been seen as a fun and playful object, it is now a real “interior design sculpture.”

Paolo Rizzatto, Costanza floor and table lamp, Luceplan, 1986

If you want to find a newer design that re-imagined a classic, look no further than Rizzatto’s Costanza floor and table lamp. The Costanza is a stripped-down version of the classic shaded lamp that uses cutting-edge materials. It truly is a “contemporary classic.” You can find many takes on this design wherever you go, which is what makes this design even more of a classic than it was before.

Bruno Rainaldi, Original Ptolomeo bookcase, Opinion Ciatti, 2003

As we look to newer takes on the classics, Ptolomeo stands tall. This design by Rainaldi proves that there is more innovation to look forward to as the years come. The Ptolomeo bookcase transforms the typical bookcase into a sculpture of its own, that, once filled with books, the column structure is entirely invisible. It revolutionized the world of contemporary furnishing and also won a Golden Compass Award in 2004.

Discover the Classics at San Francisco Design

Let the experts at San Francisco Design help you find the classic pieces to incorporate into your space. Whether you need modern furnishings to update your home or want to add something special, we have a range of products to choose from. Come and visit our showroom or schedule an appointment with one of our interior designers to learn more.

October 10, 2019

How to Find your Signature Style for 2017!

By Mike WallmanInterior Design Tips

What do you want your home to be? Do you want a serene retreat? An energetic, colorful space to entertain? An eclectic space to collect your treasures?

This may seem a daunting undertaking, but write down or collect magazine pictures of what inspires you. What colors, patterns, and styles do you gravitate to?

These are really great resources for tips and tricks!

Now you have the basics you need to start decorating!

Most will start with the sofa. What do you need the seating area for? A great room serves as the heart of the home next to the kitchen and dining area. Will you be watching TV? Doing homework or family projects? That will determine whether you need a sectional for optimal seating or a sofa and chairs.

Leather or fabric? Do you have pets or lots of young children? Leather is easy to care for and looks good for years. New fabric offerings of microfiber polyester imitate expensive luxury fabrics such as silk and linen, that is durable, cleanable, and give warmth to your space. Let us help you make the correct choice too!

Check out our interior designers here!

Don’t expect a new piece of furniture will complete your space. Pictures, accessories, plants, area rugs, and lighting are all essential elements to bring your personal style to the forefront.
Start 2017 with a visual focus and you’ll be so happy that you followed through to a beautiful new home that is a reflection of you!

Thanks for reading! Have some fun with the accessories in your home, they can really express your signature style!

Kelly

February 21, 2018

Modern Furniture

How to Find the Perfect Modern Bed Frame For Your Master Bedroom

Tip #1: Pick a Theme

Tip #2: Measure your Mattress

Tip #3: Measure the Size of Your Master Bedroom

Tip #4: Consider the Bed Frame Material

Tip #5: Quality

Tip #6: Find Something Unique

Contemporary Bed Frames at San Francisco Design

Modern Pieces from our Salt Lake City Store You Can’t Find Anywhere Else

#1: The Madison Extensible Coffee Table

#2: The Stella Chandelier

#3 The Neolithic Modern Dining Table

#4: The Atlantis Crystalart Contemporary Dining Table

#5: The Karl Modern Italian Leather Sofa

#6: The Quasar Extensible Dining Table

Modern Furniture at San Francisco Design

4 Tips for Buying the Perfect Sofa

1. Remember that Size Matters

2. Visualize the Arrangement

3. Research Shape and Material

Modern and Contemporary Sofas at San Francisco Design

What is Traditional Style Decorating?

What is Modern Interior Design?

Let One Style Dominate

Consider Each Piece’s Visual Attributes

Pick Harmony or Contrast

Tie Items Together

Interior Decorating with San Francisco Design

Leather Furniture Buying Guide

Genuine Over Faux

Determine the Type of Leather You Like

Types of Leather

Corrected Leather

Top Grain Leather

Full-Grain Leather

Aniline Leather

Semi-Aniline Leather

Pick Leather Furniture that Matches Your Style

Find the Right Leather Furniture for Your Home at San Francisco Design

5 Furniture Pieces Every Modern Home Needs

Vintage Leather Sofa

Upholstered Bed Frame

Modern Console

Glass Dining Table

Modernized Counter Stools

Curves and Smooth Edges

Contemporary Fireplaces

Greenery

Old and New in Harmony

Darker Kitchens

Personalize Your Space

Statement Furniture

San Francisco Design

Now you have the basics you need to start decorating!

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