Interior Design: Decor Style

My interest in interior design began in earnest in 2020 when I had to decorate and furnish my newly renovated home. It was quite a daunting task because I had a completely blank canvas – the house had been completely stripped, walls taken down and rebuilt elsewhere, and although I did have a few pieces of furniture from our previous house, I was essentially starting all over again. This was when I started asking myself “What’s my interior design style?” “Where do I start, planning my interior decor?” So, if you’ve ever wondered what your interior design decor style is then read on…

There’s a style out there to suit every taste and personality. Whether you’re drawn to clean lines, ornate details, rustic charm, or luxurious extravagance, the world of interior design offers a variety of styles to transform your home. In this blog post, we’ll look into eight distinct interior design styles: Contemporary, Traditional, Modern, Industrial, Minimalist, Mid-Century Modern, Scandinavian, and Glam. Each style has its own unique character, and we’ll explore what sets them apart.

Contemporary

Characteristics:

• Clean lines and simplicity are at the forefront of contemporary design.
• Neutral color palettes with occasional pops of bold color.
• Open and airy spaces with ample natural light.
• A focus on function and minimalism.
• A mix of materials like glass, metal, and wood.
• Striking art and statement pieces as focal points.
• Furniture with sleek, unadorned profiles.

Contemporary in a Nutshell:
Contemporary design embodies the essence of the present moment. It’s all about creating a harmonious, clutter-free space that emphasizes function while maintaining a strong aesthetic. Natural light plays a pivotal role, enhancing the feeling of openness and serenity.

Traditional

Characteristics:

• Rich and warm color palettes featuring deep reds, blues, and earthy tones.
• Ornate furniture with intricate detailing.
• Plush fabrics like velvet and silk.
• Formal layout and symmetry in room arrangement.
• Decorative moldings and elaborate chandeliers.
• Classic patterns such as florals, damasks, and stripes.

Traditional in a Nutshell:
Traditional design is a nod to the past, embracing elegance and sophistication. It pays homage to history with its opulent furnishings and meticulous attention to detail. If you crave a timeless and luxurious feel, traditional style is for you.

Modern

Characteristics:

• Emphasis on simplicity and minimalism.
• Clean lines and uncluttered spaces.
• Neutral, monochromatic color palettes with occasional splashes of bold color.
• A focus on form and function.
• Incorporation of natural materials like wood and stone.
• Iconic furniture designs from the early 20th century.
• Open floor plans for a sense of spaciousness.

Modern in a Nutshell:
Modern design is all about “less is more.” It’s characterized by simplicity, functionality, and a sleek aesthetic. This style draws inspiration from the early 20th century and has a timeless appeal that continues to captivate interior enthusiasts.

Industrial

Characteristics:

• Utilitarian materials like exposed brick, concrete, and metal.
• A color palette featuring shades of gray, black, and brown.
• Rough textures and unfinished surfaces.
• Open, loft-style spaces with high ceilings.
• Vintage and repurposed furniture pieces.
• Statement lighting fixtures, often with an industrial flair.
• A focus on showcasing structural elements.

Industrial in a Nutshell:
Industrial design celebrates the beauty of raw, unrefined elements. It transforms former factories and warehouses into trendy living spaces. If you’re a fan of the urban aesthetic, complete with exposed beams and brick walls, industrial style might be your choice.

Minimalist

Characteristics:

• A “less is more” approach with a strong focus on decluttering.
• A limited color palette with a predominance of white and neutrals.
• Functional and multi-purpose furniture.
• Clean and unadorned lines in both furnishings and architecture.
• Abundant use of natural light.
• The promotion of tranquility and simplicity.
• Empty spaces as part of the design.

Minimalist in a Nutshell:
Minimalism seeks to simplify and declutter our lives through design. It’s an oasis of calm in a hectic world. Every element serves a purpose, and the absence of unnecessary decoration allows for a sense of serenity.

Mid-Century Modern

Characteristics:

• Iconic furniture pieces from the mid-20th century.
• Clean lines, organic shapes, and tapered legs on furniture.
• A mix of materials, including wood, plastic, and metal.
• Bold, vibrant colors like orange, turquoise, and avocado green.
• A sense of nostalgia and retro charm.
• Open floor plans and large windows to connect with nature.
• Integration of nature-inspired elements like indoor plants.

Mid-Century Modern in a Nutshell:
Mid-century modern design captures the spirit of post-war optimism. It combines sleek lines and innovative materials with a touch of nostalgia. This style is for you if you’re a fan of retro chic,

Scandinavian

Characteristics:

• A light and airy color palette dominated by whites, greys, and pastels.
• Use of natural materials like wood and leather.
• Minimalistic, functional, and cozy furniture.
• Abundant use of textiles like wool and sheepskins.
• Plenty of natural light and large windows.
• Simple yet impactful decorative elements.
• A strong connection to nature and the outdoors.

Scandinavian in a Nutshell:
Scandinavian design embraces the idea of hygge, the Danish concept of coziness and comfort. It’s characteristics are simplicity, functionality, and a strong connection to nature. This style creates a welcoming and inviting atmosphere.

Glam

Characteristics:

• A lavish and opulent style.
• Rich and bold color schemes, including black, gold, and jewel tones.
• Luxurious materials like velvet, silk, and crystal.
• Elaborate and ornate furniture and decor.
• Statement lighting fixtures and chandeliers.
• Mirrored surfaces and reflective elements.
• A sense of drama and extravagance.

Glam in a Nutshell:
Glamorous design is all about indulgence and drama. It’s a style that revels in luxury and opulence. If you want your home to feel like a high-end Hollywood penthouse, this is the style for you.

In the world of interior design, these eight styles represent just a fraction of the possibilities. There are many more design styles out there but I have focused on the styles I came across during my research and home renovation. Each style has its own unique charm, and choosing the right one for your space can transform it into a reflection of your personality and taste.

Of course, you can combine styles if you are drawn to more than one. A rule of thumb would be to style your room 80% one style and 20% of a complementary style. Whether you gravitate toward the simplicity of minimalism or the extravagance of glam, there’s one or two styles that are perfect for you. So, which style do you think suits you? Go ahead and explore the world of interior design, and turn your living space into a place that’s uniquely yours.

I would love to hear how you have styled your home? If you’d like to share your ideas and preferences, leave a comment below.

Elaine