What are the most common interior design styles? Most people have ideas about how they want their homes furnished. Some people's taste in decor fits into certain typical interior design styles such as traditional, modern or coastal, but not all do. Established interior designers are often known for their trademark styles, and clients who share their taste will seek them out. Interior design comes in a range of formats and formulas, sometimes utterly distinct and other times with only the subtlest of differences. Yet each presents its own flavour, finish and experience that render a space in unique chapters of inspiration, history and creative endeavour. Therefore knowing what sets an interior design style apart may be a lot handier than you might realize, ensuring you pick the perfect style for your space and ambitions, and helping you achieve visual perfection with a lot less difficulty. There are some most common interior design styles :
Modern Modern design is rooted in minimalism. Function is the focus, so lines are clean, decorative elements are subtle and accessories are kept to a minimum. A modern space is likely to feature a neutral colour palette, polished surfaces, strong geometric shapes and asymmetry. Though some find modern design too harsh or cold, others find it calming and appreciate its ability to maximize a small space. Modern architecture and design, including interiors, is a broad umbrella term for design styles united by a common intention – a celebration of material, technology and composition through authenticity, transparency and efficiency. Modernist interiors are therefore often a complex overlay of functional programming, careful compositions and clearly articulated lines and geometry. The inherent materiality of a form is an integral part of the design language here, as is an emphasis on visual and functional simplicity .
Mid-Century Modern Mid-Century Modern describes a style that gained momentum in the aftermath of the Second World War. The modernist interior design is set apart by its vivid use of color, crisp lines, and interactive dialogues with nature and the outdoors. Functionality or “fussy-free” was the main theme for Mid-century design. Its emphasis on pared-down forms, natural or organic shapes such as “egg-shaped” chair, easy-to-use contemporary designs and simple fabrications. It easily complements any interior and also helps with seamless transition from interior to exterioror.
Minimalist
Sparked by the Minimalist art movement of the 1960s and 70s. The minimalist design takes a ’less is more’ approach to interior decorating. Straightforward geometric forms, little ornamentation, simple materials and the repetition of structures put the focus on the essential quality of the space, rather than the objects that fill it. Minimalism is ideally suited to large, open spaces with natural light and cleverly hidden storage.
Traditional / Classic Order, symmetry and balance are the key elements of classical interior design. Classic spaces are often built around a focal point, like a bed or a feature fireplace, that forms the centre around which visual balance is achieved. In addition to the mirrored setup, classic design is characterised by natural colours, elegant fabrics, and natural flooring made of wood, stone or marble. Traditional style turns to the past to create ideas for the future. The approach here can be true to source or a slight retake on classical suggestions, bringing time-tested elements, motifs and proportions to fit a modern lifestyle.The backdrops are usually pale and simple, with rich colors, lines and profiles imbibing classical opulence into space.Delicately carved and lacquered dark wood furniture and architectural embellishments abound in this style.
Scandinavian The scandinavian design embodies a move towards simplicity, functionality and efficiency; it also, however, brings an emphasis on affordability to the palette.The Scandinavian design strikes a careful balance between Minimalist efficiency and warm, personal invitations.This style is characterized by organic materials, bare ornamentation and clean detailing. The color palette swims in black and white, with greys and blues or the occasional pop of color bring visual respite. Silhouettes and contours are more rounded and sinuous, which along with organic textures create a much cosier vibe in even the barest of layouts and arrangement,
Urban Style Interior Design Urban design blurs the line between domestic and industrial. Think concrete floors, exposed beams, metal siding, galvanised steel and unfinished surfaces. Unique, non-functional objects (at least in terms of a living space) are often used as features to create a distinct look that is both modern and bohemian. Urban interiors are often designed to create open space, sometimes in surprising ways, and allow for multifunctional rooms.
Transitional Transitional is a very popular style because it borrows from both traditional and modern design to facilitate a space that’s not “too much,” in terms of one style or another. There’s a sense of balance that’s appealing and unexpected.A transitional design may incorporate modern materials, such as steel and glass, and then unite them with plush furnishings.The transitional design also includes relatively neutral colour palettes, creating a calming and relaxed space that manages to feel both stylish and sleek, as well as warm and inviting.
Country style
Warm, earthy colours are indicative of a Country design style, as are worn and ornamental wooden furnishing. The style has an overarching farmhouse inspiration. Country design may include soft and warm tones of red, yellow or gold and natural materials like stone and brick. Country design can include collections of ornate porcelain dishes and heavy linens and bed coverings.
Coastal Interior Design Fresh, relaxed and excitingly versatile, just like the ocean that inspires it, the Coastal style takes organic inspiration into new dimensions. Instead of merely embellishing the interior with oceanic materials, motifs and elements.Aqua, teal, turquoise and these myriad shades of blue come alive in light, organic materials that are reminiscent of summer.There is of course also the opportunity to go completely literal with the theme, using everything from seashells, ropes, nautical icons to driftwood for maximum aesthetic impact.
Bohemian Interior Design Bohemian is a popular style of home design and fashion. It reflects a carefree lifestyle with little rules, except to follow your heart's desire.Bohemian homes may include vintage furniture and light fixtures, globally inspired textiles and rugs, displays of collections, and items found in widely varied sources including flea markets and during one’s travels.It’s not uncommon to spot floor pillows and comfortable seating spaces when incorporating the bohemian style. This eclectic style can incorporate an ultra-glam chandelier paired with a well-worn rug and a mid-century chair
Hollywood Glam Also referred to as Hollywood Regency, Hollywood Glam is a design style that tends to be luxurious, over-the-top and opulent. It’s a dramatic design style, perfect for a homeowner who enjoys making a statement.This design style can incorporate some features of Victorian design, including plush, velvet furnishings, tufting and antiques. The colour palettes are particularly bold—think purples, reds and turquoise.
A rudimentary understanding of design fundamentals and styles can be a great help in solidifying your personal design ideals. The ability to identify different interior design styles will help you conjure up inspirational visions of your future home and provide a framework to build your personal aesthetic. With a vocabulary to express your inspired vision, magic happens. Together, we make homes beautiful. If you would like to consult with us and know more information about interior design styles, please contact us.