Interior Design Who?

Everybody who's anybody knows what interior design is. And I don't mean they went to school and got a degree, or have a random certificate framed on the wall; that's not what I'm talking about. I'm talking about walking into your Grandma's thirty-year-old house, and faking admiration for the the lace doilies that are draped over her bought-in-the-last-year desktop computer. I'm talking about seeing stripes and polka dots on the wall and cringing, because you've seen those two things go well together but whatever this diner has going on is not it.

Whether or not you think you're an interior designer, you know what design looks like. Do you have to know all the different styles and how to transition from one to the other if desired? Absolutely not. But it might help you in your search to turn your living space from drab to fab, it might help you to understand these 12 styles. But don't worry—there's no quiz at the end.

Modern/Contemporary:

Characteristics: Clean lines, minimalism, open spaces, neutral color palettes, and a focus on functionality.

Appeal: Modern design prioritizes simplicity and sophistication, creating an uncluttered, airy atmosphere.

Traditional

Characteristics: Ornate furnishings, rich colors, intricate details, and a sense of timeless elegance.

Appeal: Traditional interiors evoke a sense of grandeur and comfort, perfect for those who value classic beauty.

Industrial

Characteristics: Exposed brick walls, raw materials (concrete, steel), open spaces, and a utilitarian aesthetic.

Appeal: Industrial design embraces the rough, unfinished look of warehouses and factories, offering a blend of urban grit and chic.

4. Scandinavian

Characteristics: Minimalism, light colors, natural materials, functional furniture, and an emphasis on natural light.

Appeal: Scandinavian design is celebrated for its simplicity, functionality, and cozy ambiance.

Bohemian (Boho)

Characteristics: Eclectic mix of colors, patterns, and textures, with an emphasis on self-expression and cultural diversity.

Appeal: Bohemian style is all about free-spirited creativity and a relaxed, unconventional atmosphere.

Mid-Century Modern

Characteristics: Clean lines, organic shapes, minimalist design, and a focus on functionality.

Appeal: Mid-century modern design, rooted in the mid-20th century, offers a timeless appeal.

Coastal/Nautical

Characteristics: Light and airy color schemes, natural materials like wood and wicker, and nautical-themed decor.

Appeal: Coastal design brings the relaxed, seaside vacation vibe into homes.

Rustic

Characteristics: Raw, natural materials like wood and stone, earthy color palettes, and a cozy, cabin-like atmosphere.

Appeal: Rustic interiors embrace the charm of the countryside and evoke feelings of warmth and nostalgia.

Art Deco

Characteristics: Geometric patterns, bold colors, mirrored surfaces, and a touch of luxury and opulence.

Appeal: Art Deco design exudes glamour and sophistication, harkening back to the Roaring Twenties.

French Country

Characteristics: Rustic furnishings, warm colors, natural materials, and a touch of elegance.

Appeal: French Country design brings the charm of rural France into homes.

Victorian

Characteristics: Ornate details, rich colors, antique furnishings, and a sense of old-world opulence.

Appeal: Victorian interiors capture the romance and grandeur of the 19th century.

Mediterranean

Characteristics: Warm earthy tones, textured walls, and natural materials like stone and wood.

Appeal: Mediterranean design evokes the charm of coastal regions with its timeless and inviting aesthetic.

Now that you're a little more familiar with these styles, you'll feel more comfortable deciding what your own personal design style is. That being said, these aren't the only design styles in the world, and you certainly don't have to chose just one. When you see on social media the terms "cottage" or "vampire" with the addition of "—core" at the end, these are examples of ordinary people creating new design aesthetics or niches within or without existing styles. So don't be afraid, because there will be something out there that feels right—even if you have to make it up.