Does your home feel boring or unplanned? Check out these different interior design styles that can make any room a masterpiece.
Interior design is both a thrilling and daunting undertaking.
You want to decorate your home, apartment, yurt, cabin, what have you, to suit your style. But you may not know where to start.
First things first — you must choose a specific design style and go from there. Once you know the general style you want to incorporate, you can start the really fun part: shopping!
If you’re feeling a little low on inspiration or are maxed out on concept photos on social media, we’ll pare it down to the essentials for you.
1. Modern
Modern can seem like a difficult interior design concept to grasp. I mean, it’s always modern times, right?
But in terms of style, modern interior design is simply sleek and uncomplicated. It celebrates a relaxed atmosphere and open space.
Is Modern Interior Design Right for Me?
Choose this interior design style if:
- You’re not a fan of patterns.
- You prefer walls and furnishings in neutral tones (although a few pops of color are fine and expected.)
- You love the industrial style, like metals, brickwork, wooden beams and flooring, and a few antique pieces.
- You want natural lighting and lots of open space.
2. Traditional
Traditional interior design is another that may seem obscure initially.
At its basic level, the traditional design style means you decorate your home to look cozy and classic. Your goal is to create an elegant, inviting atmosphere.
Is Traditional Interior Design Right for Me?
Choose this interior design style if:
- You appreciate design elements like crown moldings, chandeliers, and large, pricy handmade furniture.
- You like patterns, but nothing too crazy. Stripes, plaids, and chevrons are just fine.
- In terms of paint color, you like pale, expected colors in whites, tans, grays, and blues.
- You’re not charmed by seeing anything too wacky in your home.
3. Cottagecore
Cottagecore is one of the latest, greatest home decor and lifestyle aesthetics to emerge.
It’s inspired by charming English cottages and a back-to-basics principle. Cottagecore homes are brimming with floral prints, country-style furniture, and kitsch knickknacks.
Is Cottagecore Interior Design Right for Me?
Choose this interior design style if:
- You’re all about that lace (as in curtains and doilies)
- You strive to be more eco-conscious and enjoy second-hand home goods and supplies.
- You love classic cottage color schemes, like pale blue and white.
- You *cannot* get enough plants and floral patterns.
4. Farmhouse
Farmhouse is a classic interior design that never goes out of style.
As its name suggests, it is a style inspired by farm homes; pale blue colors, peaked roofs, and rustic touches. Farmhouse design is like Cottagecore in its rustic approach, yet it’s far less soft and feminine.
Is Farmhouse Interior Design Right for Me?
Choose this interior design style if:
- You adore wooden features, like beamed ceilings and wooden barn doors, to add undeniable charm to your space.
- You love the idea of wood and metal furniture, including your dinner table and chairs, coffee table, and bookcases.
- Shades of blue, gray, white, and taupes are your ideal wall colors.
5. Minimalist
Minimalism is an interior design style that celebrates a less-is-more aesthetic.
It champions crisp, bare spaces, clean lines, and as little decor as possible. Minimalist homes often feel relaxed without overflowing with warmth.
Is Minimalist Interior Design Right for Me?
Choose this interior design style if:
- You abhor clutter since minimalist homes keep spare items out of sight and out of mind.
- You prefer pale, neutral colors and a basic design scheme throughout your home.
- Patterns? Colors? No thank you.
- You’re not keen on collecting antiques or any unnecessary items that add color and texture to a space.
6. Maximalist
A trending home design concept, maximalist homes are, you guessed it, the opposite of minimalist homes.
It’s a more-is-more aesthetic, so you can bring in as much stuff as you like without worrying about clashing. Maximalist design often tells a story, so it’s not just rooms bursting with stuff.
Is Maximalist Interior Design Right for Me?
Choose this interior design style if:
- You love decorating your home with unique trinkets and never feel overwhelmed by shelves teeming with objects.
- You adore mixing patterns and colors in any room.
- You love new tech, classic antiques, books from any and every era, and keeping it all in your field of vision.
- You have a quirky sense of style that you love to show off.
7. Mid-Century
Mid-century refers to the decor and styles associated with the early to mid-20th-century.
Its common characteristics include wood furniture, clean lines, industrial architecture, and warm lighting. Mid-century home decor can feel a bit retro at times, so it’s often balanced with a modern zen aesthetic to keep it fresh.
Is Mid-Century Interior Design Right for Me?
Choose this interior design style if:
- You adore the idea of geometric prints for wallpaper and pillows, as long as it’s tasteful.
- You appreciate the sparse beauty of Scandinavian design and the retro appeal of ‘50s Americana.
- Dark wooden furniture, Eames chairs, and pale wall colors are your thing.
- You would totally move into Don Draper’s Mad Men apartment tomorrow if possible.
8. Bohemian
The boho style is one that is ever-evolving and eclectic to the max.
It’s a global-inspired look that is very laid back and colorful. Bohemian homes typically feature colorful textiles, rattan furniture, and lush greenery.
Is Bohemian Interior Design Right for Me?
Choose this interior design style if:
- You love mixing ornate patterns and bright colors.
- You enjoy a home with a layered look that is easy to change out with the seasons (and your mood).
- Low seating, lots of plants, and unique lighting are your thing.
9. Coastal
The coastal style is all about creating a home with a breezy style and a relaxed atmosphere.
Colors inspired by the sea and sand are ideal, with seashells, rope, and ship accouterments decorating the walls and shelves. But remember: coastal design is not about cheap or tacky items. It’s more minimalist than themed.
Is Coastal Interior Design Right for Me?
Choose this interior design style if:
- You love the idea of decorating with natural textural elements, like seagrass.
- You prize the concept of a home that looks and feels relaxed more than anything.
- You prefer sand and stone colors as well as shades of blue and green.
- You’re a fan of function and aesthetics when it comes to decor.
Conclusion
These are nine of the key interior design styles thriving in the home decor industry. Some are timeless; others are just a lot of fun and more trendy than permanent.
No matter which style you choose in your home, don’t let any style hamper your creativity. It’s still your home, after all. Deck it out to suit your style and needs, and you’ll never go wrong.
[Client bio]
Dominique Daniels has five years of Property Management experience working primarily in high-end apartment community living. Her ability to consistently deliver white-glove services to her residents and prospects has propelled her in a successful career that now finds her leading the Tobin Estate Apartments team.
