Are you tired of living in a house that looks like it’s stuck in the ’80s? Do you want to impress your guests with a chic and stylish living space? Or maybe you want an excuse to buy some new furniture and redecorate your home (no judgment here, I did just that!). Whatever your reason, it’s time to explore the world of interior design!
Okay, let’s get real here. When I first started renovating my home, I had no idea what I was doing. I thought I wanted to go with the farmhouse style (I mean, who doesn’t love a good shiplap wall?), but as it turns out, I’m not that kind of gal. It’s like when you think you’re a dog person, but then you meet a cat and you’re like, “wait a minute, I think I’m a cat person now (I’m allergic to both, but you know what I mean)”. So, that’s pretty much what happened to me with interior design styles.
But you know what? That’s totally okay! After some soul-searching (and some serious Pinterest scrolling), I realized that I’m more of a contemporary/industrial/minimalist kinda gal. Who knew? The point is, you don’t have to pigeonhole yourself into one particular style. It’s your home, your rules! And if that means mixing and matching different styles to create your own unique vibe, then so be it.
Of course, it’s important to make sure that your design choices are consistent throughout the house. You don’t want to walk from room to room and feel like you’re in a completely different house. So, whether you’re into boho chic, mid-century modern, or something in between, but make sure you stay true to your personal style and keep all elements of your house cohesive.
In this blog, we’re going to take a journey through 15 different interior design styles. From minimalist to modern to shabby chic, I’ve got you covered. I will also throw in some tips and tricks along the way to help you create a space that’s not only stylish but also functional (because let’s face it, nobody wants a couch that looks good but feels like sitting on a bag of rocks). Let’s get started!
1.Discovering the Timeless Appeal of Mid-Century Modern Design
Mid-century modern is a retro interior design style from the 1950s and 60s that features clean lines, bold colors, and a minimalist aesthetic.
When I think of the Mid-Century Modern style, I can’t help but think of one of my favorite stores, West Elm. It’s no secret that I absolutely love this style! The clean lines, simple forms, and organic shapes give any space a stylish and practical look that never goes out of fashion. But what I love most about this style is how it adds a touch of personality to any room, whether it’s through the bold colors or the iconic furniture pieces. And when it comes to finding the perfect Mid-Century Modern pieces for my home, West Elm is always my go-to. They just seem to nail that perfect blend of retro charm and modern sensibility that makes this style so timeless and irresistible.
The Mid-Century Modern style is a timeless and functional design trend that originated in the 1940s and continued through the 1960s.
One of the standout features of Mid-Century Modern style is its use of bold colors, such as mustard yellow, avocado green, and burnt orange, which add a touch of personality to any space.
Furniture is also a key element of this style, with iconic designers like Eames, Saarinen, and Noguchi creating pieces that are still popular today. Materials like wood, metal, and glass are frequently used in furniture and decor, giving the space a warm and inviting feel.
The Mid-Century Modern style is also known for its integration of indoor and outdoor living spaces, with large windows, sliding glass doors, and open floor plans creating a seamless transition from inside to outside.
Accessories like geometric patterns, abstract artwork, and statement lighting fixtures are often used to complete the look and add visual interest.
In short, if you want a stylish and functional home with a touch of retro charm, Mid-Century Modern style is the way to go!
2. Scandinavian Design: A Timeless Approach to Modern Living
The Scandinavian interior style is characterized by simplicity, functionality, and natural materials, creating a cozy and welcoming atmosphere with a focus on minimalism and clean lines.
I absolutely adore the Scandinavian style! Ikea offers great home decor that fit this style.
It’s all about creating a warm and inviting space with simplicity, functionality, and minimalism. I love how this design trend uses natural light to brighten up the room, achieved by using light-colored walls, ceilings, and floors, and large windows that allow plenty of natural light to flood the space.
Scandinavian design also emphasizes the use of natural materials, like the beauty of the unfinished or lightly stained wood in furniture pieces, and multi-functional decor that’s both beautiful and useful. The focus on neutral tones like white, beige, and gray with sparing use of bold accents is just stunning.
I love how Scandinavian design creates a streamlined look that’s both beautiful and practical, perfect for any modern home.
3.The Rise of Industrial Design: How It Shaped Modern Aesthetics
The industrial interior design style is characterized by raw materials, utilitarianism, and practicality, featuring exposed brick, steel, iron, and other metals in combination with wood, brick, and concrete.
The industrial interior design style has always been one of my favorites.
This style originally emerged during the industrial revolution, showcasing raw materials and an unfinished look. I even incorporated some of these elements in my own home, like the black windows and doors and the metal accents throughout the house.
One of the defining features of industrial design is its emphasis on utilitarianism and practicality, with a focus on exposed brick walls, pipes, and ductwork. This style is characterized by the use of steel, iron, and other metals, often in combination with wood, brick, and concrete. Whether it’s in a loft apartment or a modern home, industrial design adds a touch of rawness and uniqueness to any space.
The color scheme for this style is usually neutral, with black, white, and gray being the predominant colors. Industrial lighting fixtures, such as metal pendant lights and Edison bulbs, add to the overall look.
Furniture in the industrial style is often made from reclaimed or repurposed materials, such as salvaged wood and metal. Pieces are typically large and sturdy, with a focus on function over form. An industrial-style living room might feature a large leather sofa paired with a vintage metal coffee table, while an industrial-style kitchen might showcase stainless steel appliances and open shelving made from reclaimed wood.
When decorating in the industrial style, it’s important to strike a balance between rough textures and sleek finishes. While exposed brick walls and metal pipes add to the industrial feel, they should be balanced with softer elements like plush rugs or cozy throw blankets. Textures like burlap and canvas can also add to the overall look.
The industrial style has become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly in urban areas. It offers a bold and edgy look that is perfect for those who want to make a statement with their interior design. Whether you live in a loft or a traditional home, adding industrial elements to your decor can add a unique and stylish touch.
4.Bohemian Style: Embracing the Eclectic and Creative Spirit
Bohemian style, also known as boho or boho chic, is an eclectic and colorful interior design style that emphasizes mixing patterns, natural materials, and decorative elements to create a cozy and unique living space.
I absolutely love the Bohemian style, also known as boho or boho chic! It’s such a colorful, free-spirited, and eclectic interior design style that draws inspiration from various cultures and time periods. This style is all about mixing and matching patterns, textures, and colors to create a relaxed and cozy vibe. It’s perfect for those who want to express their individuality and creativity in their living space.
One of the key elements of bohemian style is the use of natural materials such as wood, leather, and woven textiles. This creates a warm and organic feel that is inviting. Bold and vibrant hues like red, orange, and purple are mixed with earthy tones like brown and green to create a harmonious and balanced look.
Bohemian style also incorporates a lot of decorative elements such as vintage pieces, eclectic artwork, and unique accessories. Plants and flowers are also popular in this style, as they bring in a sense of life and vitality to the space. Textiles such as tapestries, throws, and pillows are also commonly used to add texture and visual interest.
Another defining feature of bohemian style is the layering of different patterns and textures. Mixing floral prints with stripes, for example, is a common practice in this style. This creates a visually stimulating and cozy atmosphere that is both inviting and comfortable.
The Bohemian style is perfect for those who want to create a cozy and eclectic atmosphere that reflects their personality and individuality. With its use of natural materials, bold colors, and decorative accessories, this style is perfect for creating a warm and inviting space that is full of personality and charm.
5. Classic Elegance: Discovering the Timeless Beauty of Traditional Design
The Traditional style is a timeless and elegant interior design style known for its warm and sophisticated look, featuring plush furniture, intricate patterns, and symmetrical designs in a warm and balanced color palette.
The Traditional style is a classic and timeless interior design style that is known for its elegant and sophisticated look. This style is characterized by its use of rich materials, intricate patterns, and ornate details that create a sense of warmth and coziness in a space. In a traditional-style room, you can expect to see plush furniture, layered textiles, and formal window treatments.
When it comes to color palettes, traditional interiors tend to feature warm, rich colors like reds, greens, and browns. Neutral colors like cream, beige, and white are also commonly used as a backdrop for the more colorful accents. This creates a sense of balance and harmony within the space.
One of the key features of traditional style is the use of symmetry in design. This means that furniture and accessories are arranged in a balanced and symmetrical way, creating a sense of order and harmony. Traditional-style rooms also often feature ornate moldings and trim work, adding a sense of grandeur to the space.
The Traditional style is all about creating a sense of comfort and familiarity in a space. It’s a great choice for those who appreciate classic design and a sense of formality in their home. To achieve this style in your own space, focus on incorporating rich materials, elegant furniture, and a warm and inviting color palette.
6.Coastal Style: Creating a Serene and Beachy Escape in Your Home
The Coastal style brings the beachy vibes into your home with its light and airy feel, natural materials, and ocean-themed decor, creating a serene and relaxing atmosphere.
The Coastal style, also known as beachy or nautical, is a design style that draws inspiration from the ocean and the coast. It is characterized by its light and airy feel, natural materials, and beachy color palette.
This style is perfect for those who love the ocean and want to bring the beachy vibes into their homes. The Coastal style often incorporates light and neutral colors such as white, beige, and light blue to create a relaxed and calming atmosphere. These colors are often paired with natural textures and materials such as rattan, jute, and linen to create a coastal feel.
Additionally, the use of ocean-themed decor such as seashells, anchors, and sailboats is also common in Coastal design. Furniture in the Coastal style is typically light-colored and made of natural materials such as wicker, rattan, or driftwood. Upholstery is often done in a white or light-colored fabric, creating a breezy and relaxed feel. In terms of accessories, Coastal design often includes artwork or decor featuring ocean scenes, such as seascapes or beach landscapes.
This style also incorporates plenty of natural light and greenery, such as potted plants or fresh flowers, to bring the outdoors inside.
The Coastal style is a perfect choice for those who want to create a serene and relaxing atmosphere in their homes while also incorporating elements of the beach and ocean. With its light colors, natural textures, and ocean-themed decor, this style is sure to bring a sense of calm and tranquility to any home.
7.Farmhouse Style: The Perfect Blend of Rustic Charm and Modern Comfort
Farmhouse style is a warm and inviting design trend that emphasizes simplicity, natural materials, and practicality, making it a popular choice for homeowners seeking a cozy and functional space.
Looking to create a cozy and welcoming space that feels like home? Look no further than the farmhouse style!
Inspired by traditional American farmhouses, this design trend emphasizes simplicity, comfort, and practicality. With its warm and inviting feel, farmhouse style is a popular choice for homeowners who want a comfortable and relaxing space. Neutral and earthy tones like white, beige, gray, and brown are commonly used in farmhouse style.
Furniture and decor often feature distressed or weathered finishes that give them a vintage and rustic look. Natural materials such as wood and stone, as well as vintage and repurposed items like barn doors and farmhouse sinks, are also hallmarks of this style.
Functionality is key in farmhouse style, with furniture that is both practical and stylish. Pieces like farmhouse tables, oversized sinks, and open shelving are perfect for entertaining and family gatherings. And with large windows and doors that bring in natural light, this style creates a bright and airy atmosphere.
The small details are important in achieving a true farmhouse look. Think woven baskets, galvanized metal accents, and mason jar lighting to tie the whole room together. Embrace the farmhouse style and create a comfortable and inviting space that you’ll love to call home.
8.Rustic Charm: Creating a Cozy and Inviting Home with Rustic Design
Rustic style is a warm and inviting design aesthetic that emphasizes the natural beauty of materials and the charm of handcrafted items, using natural elements like wood and stone, distressed finishes, and vintage accents to create a cozy atmosphere in any space.
Rustic style is a warm and inviting design aesthetic that emphasizes the natural beauty of materials and the charm of handcrafted items. Whether you’re living in a city apartment or a countryside cottage, rustic style can be applied to any space to create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The key elements of this style include the use of natural materials such as wood, stone, and leather, as well as vintage or handmade items. Rough-hewn beams, exposed brick walls, and distressed finishes on furniture and accessories are common features. The color palette tends to be earthy, with shades of brown, green, and red, and pops of bright colors can be added through textiles or artwork.
If you’re looking to add a touch of rustic charm to your home, consider incorporating elements like a reclaimed wood accent wall, a stone fireplace, or a vintage-inspired chandelier. Furniture with a distressed finish, such as a farmhouse dining table or a leather armchair, can add a touch of rugged elegance. Textiles such as wool blankets or cowhide rugs can also add warmth and texture to the space.
It’s important to balance the use of natural materials with modern conveniences when designing a rustic-style home. Consider adding lighting fixtures with a vintage or industrial look to add character to the space while providing ample illumination. By keeping this balance in mind, you can create a space that is both functional and stylish.
Rustic style is all about embracing the natural beauty of materials and creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. By incorporating natural materials, vintage or handmade items, and earthy colors, you can create a cozy and charming space that feels like home.
9.Minimalism: The Art of Simplifying Your Home and Life
Minimalism is an interior design style that embraces simplicity and spaciousness, using clean lines and a neutral color palette to create a calming and functional environment.
Minimalism is all about keeping things simple, functional, and spacious. It’s an interior design style that emphasizes clean lines, neutral colors, and a focus on space and light. This style is perfect for those who appreciate a calm and clutter-free environment that encourages relaxation and clear thinking.
To achieve a minimalist look, it’s important to reduce clutter and keep only the essentials. This means getting rid of unnecessary items and using storage solutions to keep things organized and out of sight. Furniture should be sleek and simple, with clean lines and minimal ornamentation. Neutral colors like white, black, and gray are often used, with pops of color added sparingly through artwork or decorative objects.
Lighting is another key aspect of minimalist design, with natural light preferred whenever possible. Windows are often left uncovered or with simple, sheer curtains to allow in as much light as possible. Artificial lighting is used sparingly, with recessed or track lighting providing a subtle glow.
The minimalist style is ideal for those who appreciate simplicity and functionality in their home decor. It’s perfect for small spaces as it maximizes the use of space while maintaining a stylish and modern look. If you’re looking for a peaceful and harmonious environment that encourages mindfulness, then minimalist design might be just what you need.
10.Exploring Art Deco: Glamorous Design of the Roaring Twenties
Art Deco style features bold geometric shapes, rich colors, and lavish ornamentation, creating a glamorous and luxurious look influenced by Cubism, Futurism, and the Bauhaus.
Are you looking to add a touch of glamour and luxury to your home decor? Consider incorporating Art Deco style, also known as style moderne, into your design. This design movement emerged in the 1920s and flourished during the 1930s, and is characterized by bold geometric shapes, rich colors, and lavish ornamentation. Art Deco draws influence from Cubism, Futurism, and the Bauhaus movement, resulting in a unique and striking look.
One of the defining features of Art Deco is its use of bold geometric shapes, including zigzags, triangles, and chevrons. To create a luxurious look, this style often incorporates materials such as chrome, glass, and lacquer. The color palette of Art Deco is typically bold and vibrant, with black, gold, silver, and deep reds being popular choices.
Art Deco interiors often feature high-gloss finishes and mirrored surfaces, which reflect light and add to the opulent feel of the space. The furniture in this style is often sleek and streamlined, with curved lines and smooth surfaces. Lighting is also a key element of Art Deco design, with dramatic fixtures making a statement.
Incorporating Art Deco into your home decor can transform any room into a stunning and memorable space. Use bold geometric patterns, rich colors, and high-gloss finishes to achieve this style. Choose furniture with curved lines and smooth surfaces to create a streamlined look, and opt for lighting fixtures that add drama and impact. From living rooms to bedrooms to bathrooms, Art Deco can be incorporated into many different types of spaces, adding a touch of glamour and luxury to your home.
11.Hollywood Regency Design: The Perfect Blend of Glamour and Sophistication
Hollywood Regency style is all about glamour, luxury, and bold statement pieces.
Hollywood Regency style, also known as Hollywood Glam or Regency Moderne, is an interior design style that exudes luxury, glamour, and sophistication. It originated in the 1930s during the Golden Age of Hollywood and was inspired by the opulence and glamour of the movie industry.
The style is characterized by a bold use of color, luxurious materials, and dramatic details. It incorporates elements of Art Deco, Rococo, and even Chinoiserie design. Bold geometric patterns, such as chevron and zigzag, are often used in combination with metallic accents and plush, high-quality fabrics like velvet, silk, and satin.
Furniture in the Hollywood Regency style is often oversized, with curved lines and exaggerated details. Mirrored surfaces, lacquered finishes, and elaborate hardware are also common features. The use of animal prints and exotic materials, like shagreen and faux tortoise shell, is also popular.
When it comes to color, Hollywood Regency interiors are known for their bold and contrasting color schemes. Black and white, paired with bright jewel tones like emerald green, sapphire blue, and ruby red, are commonly used to create a dramatic and high-contrast look.
Incorporating Hollywood Regency style into your home can add a touch of glamour and sophistication to your space. By using luxurious materials and bold color combinations, you can create an interior that feels timeless and chic. When executed well, the Hollywood Regency style can be both glamorous and playful, making it a fun and exciting option for those looking to add some pizzazz to their interiors.
12.Shabby Chic Style: Embracing the Beauty of Imperfection
Shabby Chic design style is a blend of vintage, cozy and rustic elements that evoke a charming and comfortable feel in the home.
Shabby Chic is a design style that has gained popularity in recent years. It is a blend of vintage and feminine elements, and it embraces imperfection to create a relaxed and comfortable atmosphere. This style is perfect for those who love a casual, romantic, and eclectic look.
The Shabby Chic style incorporates muted and pastel colors, floral patterns, distressed or worn furniture, and vintage or antique accessories. It often features white or light-colored walls, which provide a perfect backdrop for the other elements of the design.
Furniture is an essential part of the Shabby Chic style, and it is often painted in a distressed or antiqued finish. Common materials include wood, wrought iron, and wicker. Upholstery is typically soft and plush, with an emphasis on comfort.
Accessories are also an important part of the Shabby Chic look, and they can include anything from vintage or antique mirrors, picture frames, and lamps to soft, frilly bedding, and curtains. Floral patterns are a staple of this style, and they can be found on everything from wallpaper and upholstery to bedding and curtains.
In summary, the Shabby Chic style is all about creating a relaxed, comfortable, and romantic atmosphere. It emphasizes vintage, worn, and distressed elements, muted and pastel colors, and floral patterns. This style is perfect for those who love a cozy, eclectic, and feminine look in their home.
13.Modern Style: The Perfect Balance of Form and Function
Modern home style is characterized by clean lines, open spaces, and a focus on function and simplicity.
The Modern interior design style is characterized by clean lines, simplicity, and a focus on function and form. The style emerged in the early 20th century and continues to be popular today. Modern design is often associated with a minimalist aesthetic, with an emphasis on neutral colors and materials such as metal, glass, and concrete. This style is perfect for those who want a sleek and sophisticated look in their home.
One of the hallmarks of modern design is the use of open spaces and natural light. Rooms are often uncluttered, with furniture and decor kept to a minimum. The goal is to create a space that feels open and airy. Color palettes are typically muted and monochromatic, with shades of gray, white, black, and beige.
In modern design, functionality is key. Furniture pieces are often multi-functional, serving multiple purposes to maximize space. This style is perfect for those who want a space that is both stylish and practical.
Modern design also incorporates technology, with features such as smart home systems and integrated appliances. Materials such as stainless steel and polished chrome are often used to achieve a sleek and futuristic look.
The Modern style is perfect for those who appreciate a clean and uncluttered aesthetic, with a focus on function and simplicity. This style is perfect for those who want a space that is both stylish and practical, with an emphasis on the use of natural light and open spaces.
14.Contemporary Style: Creating a Sleek and Sophisticated Home
Contemporary style emphasizes simplicity, clean lines, and functionality, and incorporates natural materials and minimal ornamentation for a sleek and modern look.
Contemporary design style is a popular choice if you are seeking a sleek and modern look in their homes. I personally love this style!
This style emphasizes simplicity, clean lines, and a focus on function. Contemporary design is often associated with a minimalist aesthetic and a neutral color palette.
Furniture and accessories tend to have simple, streamlined shapes and a lack of ornamentation. In contemporary design, there is an emphasis on using natural materials such as wood, stone, and metal. These materials are often left in their natural state or finished with a matte texture. Lighting is an important component of contemporary design, with recessed and track lighting often used to highlight architectural details.
One of the benefits of contemporary design is its flexibility. It can be adapted to a variety of spaces, from small apartments to large homes. It also lends itself well to open floor plans, as the emphasis on function and clean lines allows for a seamless transition between spaces.
When designing a contemporary space, it is important to consider the balance between form and function. Every element should have a purpose, and the design should be free of unnecessary clutter. Color can also be used in a contemporary space, but it is typically used sparingly in the form of accent pieces or artwork.
The contemporary design is a popular choice for those who value simplicity, functionality, and a modern aesthetic in their home. Its flexibility and emphasis on natural materials make it a timeless style that can be adapted to fit a wide range of spaces and preferences.
15.Transitional Style: Bridging the Gap Between Traditional and Contemporary Design
Transitional style blends traditional and modern elements for a comfortable and timeless look with a modern twist.
Transitional style is the perfect blend of traditional and modern design, creating a harmonious balance between the two. It features neutral colors and natural materials, while seamlessly mixing traditional and modern furniture to create a comfortable and inviting space that feels fresh and current. The lack of clutter and clean lines of transitional spaces create an open and airy feel, promoting relaxation and calmness. It’s a great choice for those who want a classic and timeless feel with a modern twist, offering both functionality and style.
What’s your style?
After exploring 15 different interior design styles, it’s clear that there is no one-size-fits-all approach when it comes to designing a space. Each style offers a unique look and feel, from the timeless elegance of traditional design to the sleek and modern lines of contemporary style.
Whether you prefer the bold colors and patterns of Bohemian design or the simplicity and clean lines of Minimalism, there is a style that can cater to your taste and preferences.
But beyond just aesthetics, each style also offers its own set of benefits and advantages. Some prioritize functionality and practicality, while others focus on creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. It’s important to consider your lifestyle, needs, and personal style when selecting a design style for your home.
Ultimately, the key to successful interior design is creating a space that reflects your personality and makes you feel happy and comfortable. So, take inspiration from these 15 interior design styles, mix and match, and have fun creating your own unique space!
Best of luck on your interior design journey, and may you find the perfect style that reflects your personality and brings comfort to your home.
