Defining your own interior design style should be the first step towards designing the perfect space you have always dreamt of. The challenge is, there are a plenty of styles to choose from and you are most often likely to resonate with more than one particular style. Many of our clients find it difficult to explain their design preferences due to lack of understanding and vocabulary of various styles to describe their choices.
A basic knowledge of what exactly defines these popular interior design styles will make this important first step very convenient and clear. Here is our guide to the most popular interior design styles which will help you select that perfect style which best reflects your personality.
Most Popular Interior Design Styles -
1. Contemporary
Contemporary and modern are frequently used interchangeably. However there is a difference between these two styles. Modern refers to the interior design styles which became popular after 1920s post war era, whereas contemporary style is all about here and now. It is the style which is presently popular at a given time. Currently a modern luxurious style of designing can be defined as a contemporary interior design style.
Contemporary furniture design is simple and comfortable but finishes are luxurious and innovative often upholstered in lustrous velvets and chenilles. Color palette is usually neutral with bold elements that stand out to serve as a focal point of a given space. Lighting design and function is also an integral part of contemporary interior design.
2. Minimalist
Minimalistic interior design style is defined by function and ultra clean lines. It takes modern design style to the next level by simplifying it further. Very neutral color pallets or even sans colors with simple furnishings and no excessive accessories and decor are principles of this style. Built-in storage, behind seamless doors, and streamlined clean arrangements create a cool, composed vibe.
If simplicity and no-fuss is your preference, then this interior style will suit your taste best.
3. Mid Century Modern
A throwback to interior design styles of Mid 1900s mainly the 50s and 60s, Mid Century Modern style has influence of modern and Scandinavian design with iconic furniture pieces with show wood and curved designs such as egg shaped chair. Canary and mustard yellow, carnation and flamingo pink, chartreuse, pale turquoise and avocado are quintessential Mid-century colour pallets. If you are looking to give your interiors warmth and a touch of traditional style, mid century modern is a perfect mix for you.
4. Scandinavian
One of the most popular styles in interior design today is Scandinavian design style. It is defined by easy living, functionality and all things natural. Scandinavian design is inspired by the simplicity of living demonstrated in Nordic countries. Furniture design is simple and understated and artistic with sculptural influence.
All white color palettes and natural elements and tones are the classic characteristics of this design type. Pops of colour often comes from the use of art, natural fibre throws or furs, or a single piece of furniture. Airy spaces, natural lighting, functional and low profile furniture and decor define the Scandinavian interior style.
5. Industrial
As the name implies, this look draws inspiration from warehouses and urban lofts, thanks to its undone, raw undone finishes. It’s not uncommon to see exposed brick, ductwork and wood. High ceilings, old timber and metal fixtures with sparse functional furniture monolithic in size and shape are classical features of industrial interior style. There may possibly be one or two pieces of abstract art or photography to add a dash of colour to an otherwise neutral colour scheme derived from the primary materials of wood and metals. This style often deemed very manly for its raw appeal and use of black and monochrome bold look is equally liked by our young, dynamic female clients.
6. Hollywood Glam
This style is also referred to as Hollywood regency is defined by luxurious, over the top and opulent designs. This design interior style is inspired predominantly by the glamorous residences of the cinema’s Golden Era movie stars. High-contrast very bold colour combinations – hot pink and kelly green, black and white, turquoise and lemon yellow, purple – are one of the style’s most notable features. This design style can also incorporate some features of Victorian design, including plush, velvet furnishings, tufting and antiques. A homeowner who is looking to make a bold statement would often choose this style and is perfect for large spaces if it suits your personal style.
7. Art Deco
If your taste veers towards the ornate and jewel-like, this 1920’s French origin design style throwback might just be your best option. Key Art Deco indicators are stylised sunburst and graduated step motifs; a fascination with African, Russian and, most importantly, Egyptian cultures; and exotic materials such as macassar ebony and zebrano woods, lapis lazuli and jade stone and shagreen. The style was heavily inspired by the Industrial Revolution so metal was also incorporated into furniture design. Forms were curved or angular and the most recognisable colour palette was black, white and gold.
Modern art deco interior design should be filled with designs featuring laurels of leaves, branches, feathers along stylized animal elements whether a bird sculpture or a Chinoiserie fish. Bold and deep jewel tones also have a place in modern art deco interior design. Think bright and deep yellows, reds, blues, greens, pinks, and purples, accompanied by softer creams and beiges to soften up your art deco look.
8. Bohemian
One of the most timeless and endlessly popular styles, the bohemian style interiors are for free spirited ones who lead a care and fuss-free life. If you’re already blessed with a varied array of distinct furnishings and admire the idea of beautifully rendered juxtapositions, this may just be the perfect interior design styles living room to consider. Bohemian homes normally include lots of nature incorporated through indoor plants, 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 very common to spot floor pillows and comfortable seating spaces. This eclectic style also touches on hints of everyday glamour via crystal extras, beaded fabrications, jewel tones, and overall relaxed mood.
9. Traditional
Traditional interior design offers classic furniture details, sumptuous furnishings, and an abundance of accessories. Traditional homes often feature dark, finished wood, rich colour palettes, and a variety of textures and curved lines. Furnishings have elaborate and ornate details and fabrics, like velvet, silk and brocade, which may include a variety of patterns and textures. Handsome, rich and inherently formal are the style’s underpinning elements. Important pieces, such as the button-tufted Chesterfield sofa or wingback chair, characterise its penchant for well-constructed, robust designs.
There’s depth, layering and dimensionality within most traditional designs, regardless of their origin. This timeless interior style never goes out of style and class.
10. Japanese
One of our most favourite styles, Japanese interior design style boasts tranquil simplicity inspired by the modest designs of Japanese culture and Zen philosophy. The modern Japanese house is the result of centuries of perfecting the art of Japanese architecture and interior design, creating a style of living that is uncluttered and clean. Japanese interior design embraces ancient customs, balance and order, serenity, and love for natural beauty. The style creates more space and brings harmony between the different aspects by keeping décor to a minimum. Elements of nature, sliding doors and screens, natural wood and bamboo and minimal and functional furniture are classic features of Japanese interiors.
A new variation called ‘Japandi’ derived from Japanese and Scandinavian, is a very popular interior design trend right now. Japandi blends these two styles to create an amazing combination of nature and simplicity inspired tranquil interiors. If you love natural elements, simplicity and tranquillity, then this style of interiors is for you.