How many magazines or Instagram pictures have you flipped through, looking at the different designs of kitchens, living areas and bedrooms and just thought “I want that” but ‘’HOW???’’
Not many people have the time to research and be an expert to different styles and designs.
So, how can you differentiate the most popular Interior Design Styles and take steps to create the interiors of your dreams without having to take an Interior Design Course or spend hours googling info and pictures?
Take a quick read below for our guide to 6 popular interior styles and the must haves for each of them: what do they look like and what home decor key items you can add to easily and quickly achieve the style YOU want.
Modern: functional and sleek with warmth of natural materials
The modern style (not to be confused with the contemporary style which changes over time to reflect what is popular to the current era) is also referred to as a slick and simple style.
One of modern design’s characteristics is to believe that all furniture and decor should focus on functionality. Which means there are very few accessories added to complete the decor.
This style should have clean, crisp lines, a natural colour palette and general unadorned styling. Ideally, there is minimal clutter and everything is away in its place. The design is sleek and practical with the use of metal and glass materials and some inclusion of more natural materials such as natural woods and leather.
Industrial: Wood and Metal!
Industrial interiors are becoming a lot more popular. It pulls its style from the look of warehouses but not everyone has exposed pipes, ducts, metal beam or bricks.
However, an industrial look can be achieved with the addition of two elements: wood and metal.
A wooden table with metal chairs associated with stainless steel appliances or fixtures would instantly give the industrial vibe.
If you are looking to complete an industrial look in your home, you may choose:
- large wooden furniture with a raw finish
- vintage furniture
- metal legs for tables, stools or desks
- metal side table, cabinet or bookshelf
- metal/vintage light fixtures or bare bulbs
Scandinavian: light and airy but warm and convivial
The Scandinavian look is another very popular look at the moment. This design pays homage to the simplicity of life displayed by those in the Nordic countries.
In these countries, natural light can be scarce, especially during the long winter months. That’s why making sure there is an abundance of light in the room is very important to achieving the Scandi look. To help the space bouncing off as much sunlight as possible, there is a lot of white in the colour palette. Soft greys, pastel colours and natural wood colour also go well to introduce colour in this space while still giving a very clean and open feel to it.
Along with the lack of sunlight, the climate is also quite cold in Northern countries. To make sure, the atmosphere is warm and convivial, lots of soft furnishings must accessorise the living spaces: rugs, throws, blankets and cushions in natural fibres and soft texture. Everything to make you feel content and relaxed.
In terms of decorating? Not too much: simple but beautiful and authentic accessories and decorative elements.
The same goes for furniture: it’s here to make a statement. To show its quality and workmanship.
The accent is placed on showing off a few beautiful pieces of furniture which should be the stars of a room.
”Quality/uniqueness over quantity”
French Country: cosy and warm with a French antique touch
The French country look is all about creating a cosy and welcoming ambience. The colour palette is neutral and warm with soft yellows and browns, cream and white throughout the look of the design. There are also a lot of natural materials such as wood and stone.
The furniture is normally large and wooden with a country, rustic or antique feel to it.
Accessories should emphasise the cosiness and comfort of the interior: cushions and soft blankets are there with old world charm decor items such as a vintage birdcage, an antique round-shaped mirror and chandeliers, some large wood base lamps to bring warm lighting when sitting on your French Chairs.
Farmhouse: Farm elements with all the comfort!
The Farmhouse Interior Style has many similar aspects to the French Country Style.
The colour palette is neutral as well but white is the star to give a feel of simplicity and freshness.
It also creates a cosy and warm atmosphere where comfort is key. And farmhouse design also includes vintage and antique elements to we can feel transported back in time into an old country farm (but with all the modern comfort!).
But think about what was found in these farms: lots of storage and some industrial elements.
A wide shelf taking the space of a wall would make a grandiose storage option and decorative element for a farmhouse interior style.
Farms were used by workers and so, metal or industrial pieces were a part of these buildings. Adding a few metal pieces such as light fixtures, rails for barn doors or wall hangers would put on a finishing touch to the farmhouse design.
The kitchen is often the star room in farmhouse homes. It’s easy to add rustic touches all over:
- porcelain or glass vases and jars with labels
- traditional or industrial pendant light fixtures
- waived or metal storage baskets
- a blackboard with a message written with white chalk
- patterned kitchen towels …
And if you are homeowners, you can install the beautiful large and deep double white porcelain farmhouse sink (or apron front sink) for an immediate farmhouse distinctive look!
Hollywood Glam: a luxurious feel
The Hollywood glam look is not for everyone but it is desired by many and it has found a place in contemporary interiors.
The Hollywood Glam look is full of luxury and glamour.
The look includes:
- velvet coverings or tufted upholstery
- bold colours such as deep purples and red
- polished metals (silver or brass)
- and signature pieces that stand out such as floor-length mirrors, large crystal vases, opulent thick curtains and fancy light fittings.
Now follow these 4 easy steps so you can start having the interiors of your dreams:
1- What are the Interior Design Styles that make you go ‘’Yep, I want that!’’?
2- Pick a room you want to reinvigorate
3- From our guide, list the pieces of furniture or Home Decor items you want to add to suit your favourite Design styles (Note: Sometimes, it also means you may have to get rid of something in the room or move it somewhere else)
4- Now Style your room and have fun with it!
And remember: whichever style you decide to go with, there are many different options available within it.
You do not need to stick to just one design. It’s common for people to mix and match different styles together to create their own unique look and atmosphere.
The most important is for your home to reflect YOUR taste and personality.
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4 comments
Great blog and love the various style suggestions!
Thank you very much Nicola. So happy you like the blog 🙂 Gwen
You gathered all the popular designs and summed up here! Thanks for sharing this article along with the amazing decor pictures. It was lovely!
So glad you liked the blog! Cheers 😉