Find your home décor style: 10 interior styles explained.
Photo: 3D render made by Suite.Minded
I believe your interior is a reflection of who you are, of your personality. It should be a space where you feel safe, serene and at peace. A space where you can be you.
If you are considering hiring a traditional interior designer or an e-designer to transform your interior, you will most likely get asked questions about your interior design style. This step usually happens during the first consultation and it gives the designer an opportunity to start visualizing your new space. These questions are essential as they will help the interior designer create a space that suits you and reflects who you are.
When working with me at Suite Minded, these questions will be part of the design questionnaire you receive after purchasing a package. You will have a choice of different interior design styles to choose from, with a definition for each one so you can better picture which ones represent you.
However, identifying the interior style that suits you best is not an easy process. There are many different styles out there, some of them look a lot alike and share similar features.
I don't believe we are defined by only one single interior design style, but rather a combination of different styles’ attributes. For example, my interior style would probably be a mix of contemporary, Scandinavian, and coastal features.
In this guide, you will find some tips to find inspiration and narrow down your interior design style, as well as a list of the most common interior styles present today.
Photo: via Boss Hunting
Find inspiration
In order to identify the interior design style that represents you and your personality, there are different things you can do.
Pinterest and Instagram
The first thing, and probably the easiest and most accessible, is to go online on Pinterest or Instagram and browse. Pinterest contains millions of images. Enter some keywords and you are sure to find what you are looking for. Everyday millions of users share new ideas and photos, which makes it the ideal place to look for inspiration.
I suggest you to create Pinterest boards so that you can store all the pictures of interior designs you like in one place. You can even share your boards with your interior designer to help him better understand what features represent you and how to design your interior.
You can also visit Instagram to find some inspiration by typing in keywords such as “coastal interiors” or “industrial design”. Although, in my opinion, Pinterest is easier to use and you can have greater access to inspiration photos.
Online questionnaires
Another way to help you define your interior design style is with questionnaires. Many websites and blogs about interior design developed simple questionnaires to help you narrow down your interior style. According to your answers, they will come up with the best design style based on your own personal tastes.
You can use these personalised questionnaires in addition to Pinterest, or it can be a great alternative if browsing hundreds of photos is too overwhelming.
Take inspiration from places you visit
You can also draw inspiration from places you visit such as restaurants or hotels. When I visit a new restaurant or go away for the weekend, I like to look around and feel the vibe of the space I’m in.
Sometimes, you might see a décor item or a feature you like and think “I want this in my home” or “That’s the style I want for my interior”.
Going out and visiting places can make you notice features you like and don’t like, which can then help you get a more precise idea of your interior design style.
No matter how you find inspiration, it’s important to know which interior design attributes you love and want to find in your new interior. When looking for inspiration and trying to define your interior design style, make a list of the features you like and the ones you don’t like so you are ready to start working with your interior designer.
Given the large amount of information you can find online, the process can be overwhelming but your designer will be able to help you and guide you towards the definition of your ideal interior design style.
A guide to different interior design styles
In order to give you more in-depth information, I have compiled a list of the main interior design styles you can find today with their definitions, main features and associated pictures.
Modern style
Modern interior design is often confused with contemporary style. Although they have some similarities, they also both have different features. Modern design was especially present in in the 19th un until the end of the 20th century.
All the elements showcased in a modern interior have a function, a purpose to fulfill. Modern furnishings have clean and simple lines, as function prevails over form.
Minimalism also characterizes modern interiors. Because every component has a function, the space is clear, defined and not cluttered.
Photo: via MidCentury Home
Wood, concrete, glass and steel are often present in modern homes as they were common and easily accessible materials at the time.
This style is mainly represented by neutral colour schemes with shades of white or grey. However, you can also see pops of bold and bright colours brought by accent elements, artwork or décor items.
Photo: via Three Birds Renovation
Contemporary
Contemporary interior design style appeared after modern design, around the end of the 20th century. Its features are present in a lot of different design styles today.
As in modern style, minimalism is still an important component of contemporary designs. Although, instead of strict, clean lines, curves are more noticeable as form and aesthetic become more important in contemporary interiors.
As more natural and environment-friendly materials were made available, they are often present in contemporary homes such as marble, granite, limestone, bamboo, cork, raw wood, jute, etc...
This style is also characterized by more earthy, warm, natural tones. A touch of colour, still in natural hues, can be added with accent furnishings or on a wall.
Open floor plans are often a trait of contemporary interiors, with construction elements usually apparent such as beams, pillars or bricks.
Minimalist
All is said in the name. Minimalist interiors focus on a refined and functional space. Their characteristics are simple and clean lines, no clutter, and neutral tones used in a monochromatic colour palette. As in modern interior design, every element has a function and a purpose.
Photo: via Nordic Design
Photo: via ArchDaily
Industrial
Industrial interiors are identified by an urban style with a warehouse feel. They take their inspiration from old factory buildings with exposed elements of architecture such as pipes or steel beams and pillars.
Industrial interior design style focuses on raw materials and incorporating any building materials into the space. For this reason, you can notice a lot of brick walls, steel, concrete, wood, iron, leather, etc...
The colours used are in a neutral palette: whites, greys and blacks.
This design style is also rather minimalist with a mix of straight and curved lines. Texture and colour can be added through furniture and accessories.
Industrial interiors usually work best in open floor plans with high ceilings.
Scandinavian
Scandinavian interior design style originates in the North of Europe with a focus on simplicity and functionality of the space. It is derived from contemporary design and share some of its features such as minimalism. The design is uncluttered, open and light.
The colours used are usually in shades of white, grey, beige, cream and brown; with pops of colour from accent furnishings, always in a natural palette such as shades of greens or blues.
The materials used in this interior design style are also natural with a lot of woods, leather, wool, cotton, jute, etc...
Scandinavian interiors are characterized by a lot of natural light and indoor plants for a perfect combination of indoor and outdoor in a bright, uncluttered space.
Photo via: Raw Sunshine Coast
Photo: via Emily Rone Home
Traditional
Traditional interior design style appeared in the 18th and 19th centuries in Europe.
Traditional home designs are usually defined by classic and comfortable interiors. Spaces are functional, family-friendly and well put together with a focus on symmetry and balance.
The colours that define traditional interiors are usually neutral shades of grey, beige, white or pastels. Brighter colours and motifs such as floral or stripes can be added through décor accessories or even patterned wallpaper.
This style is also characterized by classic and heavy pieces of furniture, usually decorated with patterns and in dark wood.
A traditional design is pulled together by its details (like wood-panelling or crown moulding), but also by the accessories that form the space. You will most likely find classic accessories like chandeliers, vintage rugs, candle holders, china, or paintings.
Transitional
Transitional interior design style is a combination of modern and traditional styles. Modern elements bring sophistication to a more classic space. For example, you could style a traditional piece of furniture with modern accessories, or vice versa. If you have a modern interior, you can bring in some vintage décor items.
Transitional design focuses on functionality, harmony and comfort. Every element brought in the space has a function and a purpose. Think minimalism and visual interest.
The colour palette is composed of neutral shades like white, grey, beige or taupe.
This design style gives more importance to layering textures and tones rather than bringing another colour in order to create visual appeal.
Photo: via Jean Stoffer Design
Photo: via One Kindesign
Rustic
Rustic design style emphasizes on natural and organic materials to create a welcoming and relaxed interior.
You will find warm and neutral colours such as whites, beiges or browns; as well as natural materials like raw wood, stone or bricks. Regarding fabrics, you can also use natural textures like jute, linen or cotton.
The furniture is often seen as heavy, but with simple lines and design to not obstruct the space.
Coastal
You don’t need to live near the ocean to create a coastal interior. It all comes down to the colours, materials and furniture you use.
This interior design style inspires relaxation and peace, bringing the outside in. It incorporates natural materials and textures like light woods, rattan, wicker, jute, linen, or organic cotton. The elements are simple and not bold.
A coastal interior is also defined by a bright and light space. And because white reflects light, shades of whites are the main colours for this interior style. You can still bring touches of colour in your décor, although they should still be in neutral shades such as warm beiges and creams, light blues or greens.
Photo: via Homes to Love AU
Photo: via Home Decor Apartment Blog
Bohemian
Bohemian interior is an eclectic design style mixing different interior styles to create an unconventional space. It inspires a rather carefree lifestyle and doesn’t give importance to design rules.
This interior design style is very personal. Every boho space reflects the person’s character and identity.
It focuses on layering different textures, fabrics and colours. It combines elements from various design styles and is one-of-a-kind.
There are no rules regarding colours or materials. Bohemian interiors usually include neutral shades and bright colours, layering of rugs and pillows, vintage accessories, handmade décor items, indoor plants. You can incorporate vintage or modern pieces of furniture. It is up to you, there are no rules with this style!
As design styles evolve constantly, there are many different ones today. And while this guide gives you an overall look at some of the main interior styles, it doesn’t mean your dream style is in this list.
The interior design style that defines you is most probably a combination of different styles’ features.
The most important in this process is to find your own style, the one that represents you and your personality. It is essential in order to create the perfect interior where you feel at home and at peace, which is what we’re all looking for no?
So, what is your interior design style?
Tips to start your interior decorating journey on the right foot