How many interior decorating styles are there and how do you know which one defines you best?
As an interior designer, this is one of the first questions I get asked before I know which direction to take the change they want. But with so many options, it’s not easy to know what your design style is.
That’s why I wanted to make this first article; to help you lay the foundations, to help you get to know the most popular design styles and, of course, to help you discover your own!
Discover the different types of styles you can find, both current and new.
In this post I am going to tell you about the main decorative styles to design and decorate the interior of your house or room, although there are many more like the
kinfolk
or the
wabi sabi
.
Styles are constantly changing and evolving, and many, if not most, people can identify with a combination of several different styles.
The list is as follows:
Modern
It is usually associated with cold, austere and deserted spaces, but the truth is that it is characterized by being simple and focusing on clean and pure elements; that is, there are no extra decorations. Generally, the style is based on using neutral colors with some touches of color.
Traditional
It is one of the oldest design styles. Timeless pieces are often used, meaning that they have not changed at all since they were first created hundreds of years ago. Its spaces are coherent, conventional and symmetrical.
Industrial
As its name indicates, it is a factory style. Perhaps it is the one that may seem, at first glance, more masculine because of the use of metallic, rustic wood and leather elements. Although its softness, neutral colors and the use of vintage objects make these spaces totally valid for any person, regardless of gender.
Boho
The bohemian or boho style was born years ago, but has recently become very popular. It has organic and natural elements, so it is common to see materials such as wicker, bamboo or cane. Textiles are characterized by exotic, bright and saturated colors. It is a fun and original style.
Minimalist
It is similar to the modern style, with simple lines and pure shapes. His motto “less is more” (Mies van der Rohe) is what characterizes him the most. A minimalist space must have a purpose, so all the details or superfluous elements that do not provide a function, have no place in this style.
Mediterranean
It is a more coastal and informal style that is usually seen mostly in coastal homes. Use natural beach elements such as bleached wood furniture, blue and white broken or stripped tones, as they help the sun to bounce off and the spaces are cooler.
Mid century or mid-century modern
Its origins date back to the 50’s and 60’s, so it has been a very common style in many homes. The pieces designed in those years are timeless and remain fresh and modern. The furniture is characterized by simple and minimalist lines, and is usually made of wood in warm tones with design details.
Modern organic
Its clean and pure aesthetics and colors are similar to the modern style: it is elegant and neutral, but not so formal. It makes use of neutral fabrics and textures and then adds touches of color. It is characterized by the use of wood elements with light tones and muted fabrics combined with black, brass or chrome light fixtures.
Eclectic
You could say that it is the refined brother of the boho style: natural elements, color palette or refined aesthetics; although the pieces are not so organic and are a little more stylized. Eclectic spaces often have iconic pieces from different styles that work well together.
Glam
As the name suggests, the spaces have touches of luxury or glamour. Use fabrics such as leather, suede or velvet, and colors in jewel tones. The elements are very high end, polished and finished to the highest quality. It is characterized by an elegant and luxurious look without too many extra details or ornaments.
Country
Unlike the modern country house, the country style is much more traditional and classic. Use simple, traditional materials, such as rustic wood, country plaids, stripes or checks, and simple spindle-back furniture, for example. Also noteworthy is the use of vintage elements
vintage
barn lamps or reclaimed wood.
Transitory
Let’s say it is the middle ground between traditional and modern style: it uses more conventional elements (such as moldings on ceilings or walls, paneling or classic carpets). The furniture is usually modern and is combined with avant-garde art or lighting pieces to create spaces that combine past, present and future.
Rustic or country house style
The rustic styleis inspired by old houses, more specifically from the last century, with country touches because it is linked to nature, and a relaxed and cozy atmosphere. It is characterized mainly by rustic elements such as wooden beams or stone walls, combined with neutral tones such as white, beige or gray.
Scandinavian
It has its origins in the Nordiccountries, and has become very fashionable in recent years largely due to its modern and minimalist touch, but with warm touches. The color palette is soft, in pastel tones such as white, beige or tan, combined with light wood furniture. It is attractive, simple and pure, yet warm and comfortable.
Modern country house
In the last 5 years it has become a quite common and popular style. It is mainly characterized by giving a second life to objects and vintage pieces.
vintage
(or rescued from elsewhere), giving them a more modern and refined touch. Lose a bit the rustic look of the typical country house and use colors like blue or green and lots of black and white. It is a very attractive, yet comfortable style. It is one of my favorites because, although it is casual and informal, it maintains its traditional essence. A rustic but refined style.
In addition to these, there are other lesser-known styles (such as English, Japanese, Victorian or Colonial) whose aesthetics may also suit you.
And, although you may think that your 60 m2 house doesn’t look like the one in the photos, that’s no impediment to having the house you think you want.
What do you think you want?
Yes, or does your home have to follow a particular style? Why? Is the house you think you want the house you really want?
Every change starts in your mind, I’m just on the other side of the screen for you to make it happen 😉
