New York City-based interior designer Rian Smith describes contemporary design style as mixing modern and transitional elements in a warm and fresh way to create a cohesive space. In Smith's experience, it's all about achieving a balance between these two styles—which is easier said than done.

Read on for 10 expert tips for how to incorporate contemporary flair into your home.

01 Go With White Walls

Modern 2-Light Rigby Linear Chandelier with White Linen Shades, Kitchen Island Hanging Light Fixture for Living Room, Dining Room

According to Smith, white walls allow furniture pieces to pop in a contemporary living room. Here, an abstract rug provides the perfect burst of color in this otherwise neutral space. The design feels entirely of the moment.

02 Match Wall to Ceiling

White walls and a white ceiling to match give this room an effortlessly clean feel. There's something intriguing about the way the different materials between the walls and the beams in the ceiling match in color, playing with the pure white couches. Interior designer Tessa Neustadt has mastered the contemporary vibe in this room.

03 Favor Clean Lines

When Smith pictures a contemporary living room, Smith thinks, "Nothing too fancy or decorative but rather clean looking and fitted." This room certainly fits the description. Straight lines and raised furniture create a linear environment that's entirely contemporary. Plus the unique overhead lighting makes a statement without creating clutter or overpowering the room.

04 Add a Wooden Buffet Table or Console

Smith pictures wooden buffet tables and tv consoles for a contemporary living room. The style is timeless, but when it's arranged with intricate wall hangings and a mix of patterns and textures like this BHDM-designed space, it becomes seriously in vogue.

05 Utilize Black Picture Frames 

This living room features a portrait set in a black frame, another design element Smith considers distinctly contemporary. "Black-framed portraits with soft landscapes—nothing super colorful or eye-catching," Smith recommends.

06 Choose Natural, Woven Materials

Modern 4-Light Rigby Grande Chandelier, Linen Shades, Classic Ceiling Light for Foyer, Living Room, Dining Room

When it comes to contemporary furniture, Smith's home décor list includes basket-woven material. This living room pairs two woven chairs with a warm, earth-toned rug and a deep blue sofa. The elements come together to create a contemporary space that seems to flow right up the staircase.

07 Make It Inviting

This living room boasts a statement marble fireplace and linear furniture. The space feels open yet full of character and rather inviting, thanks to ample seating options and a coffee table that ties the space together.

08 Pick a Striking Light Fixture

Crystal Elegance Vintage Brass Living Room Chandelier - Stunning Fixture with Clear Faceted Crystals, Suitable for Living Room

According to Smith, a modern lighting fixture works especially well in a contemporary living room when it's grounded by soft fabrics and light colors. This white-on-white space allows the lighting fixture to make a statement. 

09 Opt for Lighter-Toned Leather

When it comes to fabric choices, a light leather piece screams contemporary design. Smith suggests going for anything in a chestnut, camel, or bone color. This unique light brown leather couch pictured creates warmth and plays well off the deep purple-toned rug.

10 Combine Different Materials

Fabric and acrylic, marble and wood, whatever materials combinations you can think of, don't be afraid to express them in your living room. In this example, different materials are tied together with greenery and ample white space throughout.