What are Interior Design Styles?

Have you ever walked into a space and it just felt “right”?

That is the benefit of Interior Design and planning.

Interior design communicates with you without talking. It’s the feel of the kitchen counters, the way the sheer curtains move with the breeze, the angle of the sunlight on the walls, the texture of the cushions.

Interior design is creating a visually appealing space that suits its occupants. Whether it be a bright cheerful playroom or a calm relaxing bedroom, interior design creates a space that caters to the use of the space.

The size of the table and space to move around the chairs, the height of the wall art, the shape of the furniture all contribute to the design of a space.

But where to start?

First thing would be to get an idea of what design style you like.

“But, I don’t know design styles: you say. Don’t worry, we have some info.

Remember, you can also combine 2 design styles together to create your own space.

Think about the feeling you would like in your space and who will be using the space.

Pinterest is your friend. Search interior design styles or a type of room that you would like. (Examples could be Hamptons style, calm relaxing living room, coastal homes, blue bedrooms ) and save any pins that you like. See if there are similarities between your pictures. Are you drawn to one color, is there a similar type of furniture, do you like a certain type of artwork? These are all clues to your type if interior design style.

To help you discover your Interior Design Style, we have listed the most popular design styles in Australia with a short description. (This article is an evolving blog. in future we will go into more detail on each design style with a link to each blog.)

Feel free to subscribe to our Home Decorating Tips and Ideas Insiders E-mails for more Design Styles and Tips. 

 

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BOHEMIAN

Bohemian living takes on a decidedly ethnic look while embracing all cultures. Bohemian styled atmospheres are free-thinking and do not conform to the norms of society. Bohemian interiors are offbeat beautiful and artistic delights, keeping away from carefully constructed interiors.

Feel right at home with the bold, colourful patterns of Asia, India, the Middle East and Africa. The key to a Bohemian style is to carefully present a messy look on purpose using a mix of colours and a variety of elements like throws, rugs, pillows, trinkets, tapestry. The Bohemian style allows for expression of personal tastes and freedom. with the mis-match of old and new furniture, ,  décor and colours that create a cheerful atmosphere for a free-spirited lifestyle.

Boho Chic is a more modern fresh updated expression of Bohemian.

Styling for Boho Chic include

Layers and textures

Patterns

Bright colours

Rugs

Macrame, Fringes, crochet

Natural elements such as hanging plants

 

 

COASTAL

Coastal interiors bring the outdoors inside with a relaxing, cheerful, airy atmosphere. A fresh, relaxed style inspired by the ocean, reminding us of lazy days at the coast with the sun, sea and sand. Coastal interiors embrace the sun kissed aesthetics, bringing organic inspiration and nautical tones together in a bright, energizing aura of life at the each

Create Coastal interiors with:

 Abundant natural light

Vanilla or white tones as a backdrop to create a cool , calm interior.

The white interior allows your shades of blue, aqua, turquoise and teal come alive in the organic accessories used to decorate the space

Nautical theme with ropes and nautical icons.

Light curtains such as sheer instead of heavy fabrics.

Natural fibre baskets and rugs

Large glass bowls, vases and bottles in shades of blue.

Soft fabrics/linens in grey, taupe and pastels.

Louvre windows

Indoor plants (tropical)

Coastal Artwork

Decorative accessories also include washed back picture frames, seashells and driftwood sourced locally.

Read here for more on creating a Coastal Interior Design Style in your home.

 

CONTEMPORARY

A Contemporary design style is sometimes confused with modern. Contemporary IS designed around whatever is in style today. Contemporary follows current trends ands evolves all the time. There are no defined colours or design characteristics.

 

COUNTRY

Country style is cozy embracing a warm timeless cottage feel. Country style has changed over time to the Modern Country that we know today. Influenced by the culture/country traditions this style has varying types such as American country, English country, French country or Tuscan country. However all these types are the same in their love of the rustic and organic.

A country look is achieved by

The mixing of new and old.

The use of wood paneling in white.

Soft florals, striped, vintage or checked patterns.

Pottery, wood and organic materials such as baskets.

Subway Tiles.

Wall papered or stenciled walls.

Warm muted colours.

Oversized sinks and vintage faucets.

 

ECLECTIC

Eclectic style is not afraid to break the rules, encouraging freedom and individuality.  This style draws inspiration from other styles, evoking a sense of surprise and imagination in unexpected contrasts to suit the space and its intended use. Eclectic style is bold and personal, designed with layers and variation, filling a space with items you love without being overwhelming.

To encourage an Eclectic design with rhythm and contrast without the chaos :

Create harmony and cohesion through colour with a main go to colour to return to in your design.

Choose a go to colour to consistently return to, creating a cohesive look

Textures and fabric bring variation and layers such as mixing textures of silks and velvets with natural hide.

Explore patterns, mixing shapes, florals and stripes.

Mix and match furniture, don’t use coordinating pieces , e.g. don’t match the chairs to a dining table, rather have different styled chairs, each different to the other but of the same colour to create harmony in your design. Use old and new, a modern chair with an old era style table.

Include personal pieces to reflect your own style and personality.

 

FRENCH PROVINCIAL

French Provincial style focuses on combining elegance and beauty with country, rustic features. French Provincial furniture is strong and sturdy with simple, elegant beauty.

This style began in the South of France with furniture makers copying the highly decorated furniture made in Paris during the 17th and 18th centuries. Rural furniture makers , unable to afford the fashions trends of wealthy Parisians , created their own affordable pieces, combining local rustic features with beauty and elegance.

 French Provincial styles were influenced by local materials and and climates. Colours were influenced by the sun, lavender fields and sea in Southern France.

The style extended to floors and interiors with :

Sturdy Baroque furniture with floral, natural or toile upholstery.

Colours of butter-yellow, blue and lavender.

Armoires for storage.

Dark wood, tile or stone floors styled with cotton or wool rugs.

 

GOTHIC

Gothic style was prominent in the Middle Ages and is still popular amongst many today.

Gothic style is opulent and has mystical charm.

Gothic styled interiors use

Satin, silk and velvet fabrics

Tall narrow windows with a point at the arch known as Lancet windows.

Architectural mouldings and a must have chandelier

Drapery richly decorated with tassels, fringes and tiebacks.

Ornate patterned wallpaper

Dark, vibrant colours such as emerald green, ruby reds, sapphire blues and deep burgundy.

 

 

 

HAMPTONS

The Hamptons is a well know wealthy vacation area on Long Island, New Your City USA.

Hamptons styled interiors reflect a relaxed, casual beach lifestyle in a classical, wealthy, sophisticated way.

Hamptons interiors are bright and breezy with white walls, plenty of natural sunlight and timber floorboards,

To create a Hamptons style incorporate

Shaker styled cabinetry

Complementary blues with natural colour palettes of cream, white, ivory and sand.

Natural textiles and textures such as rattan, jute and linen.

Artwork referring to the sea , including corals and landscapes.

Visit our blog : What is Hamptons Interior Design Style for tips and ideas to style your Hamptons Home.

 

HOLLYWOOD GLAM

Hollywood glam, also known as Regency style brings back the glamour lifestyle of the Golden Age of the American Movie Industry. Hollywood Glam never seems to go out of fashion and embraces the lavish home décor styles of film stars from the 1930’s. Hollywood Glam is opulent, luxurious, It is luxurious, opulent and while sometimes seems extravagant , is a statement for the wealthy to show off their financial success. Hollywood Glam can be achieved by styling with

Victorian inspired antique furniture with plush, velvet furnishing, tufting, silky fringes and tassels, .

Fabric and textures in bold colours with vibrant reds, turquoise and purples. 

Luxurious Shiny accessories, cut glass, sparkling fine crystals and mirrors and chandeliers

Candles and flowers

Shimmering silks, cashmere, faux fur and cushions, rich textiles and carpets.

A statement sofa piece.

 

INDUSTRIAL

Industrial design style is regularly found in reclaimed industrial spaces or lofts, transforming the working part of a building into a live-able space. Embracing the past usage of the space, with open spaces, high ceilings, large windows, beams, pipes, columns, ducts and flanges highlighted in the styling. An abundance of textures is found in the space with exposed concrete and bricks

Industrial design style is achieved with

Bare ceilings with metal air ducts

Warm neutral colours such as browns and greys.

Worn leather

The use of iron, steel, exposed concrete, bricks , worn, recycled or salvaged elements.

Weathered wooden floors or concrete floors

Steel Chairs

 

JAPANDI

Japandi is the mixing of traditional elegant Japanese styling with minimal functional Scandanavian styling. Japandi styled interiors are clean, minimalist, warm and comfortable. The philosophy of the Japandi is easy to understand. Japandi philosophy is easy to understand with the fusion of functionality and cosiness that looks beautiful.

To create a Japandi styled interior

Use a mix of light and dark timber

Use both Scandanavian and low line Japanese furniture.

Hang a pendant made out of paper

Have one statement piece with minimal accessories

Use natural materials such as bamboo, rattan, wood, wool and linen

Mix soft Scandi pastel tones with the warmer rich Japanese colours

 

JAPANESE

Japanese styled interiors are about balance, harmony and consideration. Based on local cultures, materials and a history with a lack of foreign invasion and influence, Japanese designers have developed an innately native style. With a basis of minimalism in it’s simplicity in both finishes and layout , Japanese interiors embrace the principles of Zen. Zen interiors introduce silence and stillness, inside and out, into your life with the elevation of simplicity into an art form. Every surface, form and line is styled with thought and efficiency , without any frills. Japanese styled interiors are minimalistic and styled purposely with bare essentials.

Zen interiors weave all the elements of design including space, light and shapes into a home creating a peaceful ,relaxed state of mind.

Japanese interiors are designed with

Soft natural colours in earthy tones with chromatic harmony. The same colours repeated to balance spaces and surfaces.

Furniture low to the ground

Natural organic materials found in Japan such bonsai and bamboo.

Water elements and lantern style lighting

Screens and doors made of natural materials and wood

Tatami mats

 

MEDITERRANEAN

As the name implies Mediterranean style is influenced by countries north of the Mediterranean Sea. Mediterranean homes reflect the culture and climate of Spain, Greece and Italy.

Each country uses specific colours, materials and textures influenced by their local culture, history, available building materials and climate.

In Greece you will find the famous whitewash walls and roofs.

In Spain, wrought iron banisters and balconies are used.

Italy uses it’s well known red – tiled rooftops, with reference to Tuscan architecture.

Mediterranean interior colours are influenced by the sky and sea

Mediterranean style designs include

Columns and curved forms and arches

Stone and brick

Wall textures

Interior balconies

Rattan

Rustic furniture

 

MID-CENTURY MODERN

Spanning the architectural and artistic era of the 1930s to 1960’s Mid-century interior design gained momentum in the aftermath of World War 2. Mid Century Modern has echoes of Bauhaus and International movement but differs in its crisp lines and vivid use of colour. Embracing the form follows function principle resulted in creations from this time taking up as little space as possible and with purpose in their designs. A connection between the house and it’s natural surroundings with a functional and visual clarity is essential in Mod-century Modern homes. Mid-century modern houses, have large rectangular windows, characteristic flat roofs, and sometimes are cylindrical in structure such as designs by Frank Lloyd Wright.

Visually light Mid-century modern (MCM, for short) interiors are achieved with :

Generous open plan with common shared areas built with reinforced concrete and steel.

Furniture designs in plastic and wood.

White and pale neutral walls to highlight bold accents in the room, making them appear more luxurious and expensive.

Colour tones of brown, orange, yellow and green and sometimes deviations to the colour palette is seen.

 

MINIMALISM

Minimalism design style embraces less is more. Originally introduced by Mies van der Rohe a German architect who used steel, glass and wide open spaces to create his unembellished modern designs. Minimalist interiors were influenced by the Minimalist arts movement of the 1960 and 1970’s along with traditional Japanese design and Zen

When well put together Minimalistic interior design is chic with clean lines and open spaces. Minimalistic interiors are free from clutter and distractions , emphasis is on the visual impact and use of the space.

Minimalist design styles are achieved by :

Keeping motifs and elements and motifs to a bare minimum.

Lots of natural light to keep the space light and dynamic.

Design with the repetition and movement of lines.

Having a standout piece of furniture

Displaying a single dominant piece of artwork.

Creating negative spaces

Function is the focus with concealed storage and careful detailing.

Simplified colour palette in hushed tones with one or two accent colours.

Quality items over quantity.

 

 

MODERN AUSTRALIAN

Modern Australian interior styles are humble and simplistic in design. This interior design style is relatively new as is Australia. A relaxed style with a love of the indoor/outdoor living spaces built on natural materials.

Modern Australian shows an appreciation for craftmanship with minimal styling, enjoying functionality and simplicity.

Modern Australian interiors have elegant modern touches alongside rustic, earthy materials with the use of:

Natural colours, stone and wood.

Achromatic colour schemes

Greenery and artwork to bring the outdoors inside.

Large bi-fold windows and doors.

Click here for more info on Modern Australian Interior Design Style

 

MODERN FARMHOUSE

Modern Farmhouse is a mixture of old and new. Modern Farmhouse is the comfortable cosy feel of a traditional home with rustic country elements. The repurposing of furniture and use of natural elements contribute to charming vintage looks. Modern Farmhouse is uncluttered spaces that are cosy and functional.

To create a Modern Farmhouse interior style with:

Mix and match old and new accessories.

Glossy accents and smooth lines in uncomplicated, neutral or monochromatic colour palettes

Rustic beams and white walls.

Wide plank floors and barn doors.

Tongue and groove paneling, shiplap and butt boards

Open shelves and cabinets

Large open plan dining and kitchen space

Vintage furniture with a rustic feel mixed with modern furniture.

Rustic chandeliers

 

MOROCCAN

Morocco interior styles is influenced by the cultures surrounding it in North Africa, with coastline along both the Mediterranean and Atlantic, nestled between Europe and Africa.

Moroccan styling is a blend of French, Portuguese, Spanish, Persian, Islamic, Mediterranean and African influences.

To create a Moroccan styled interior style with :

Arched doorways

Overhead Canopies

Sensual Moroccan Scents

Wall Mirrors

Beni Ourain area rugs

Coloured glass and cut metal in lamps and pendants

Furniture with no armrests and low backrests

Fabrics with strong jewel tones

Intricate carving

Intricate mosaic or terra cotta tile details

Ornately carved wood

Furniture with mother of pearl inlay and elaborate wrought iron scrollwork

 

RETRO

Loud, busy and energizing, Retro interior design is from the 1950s, 1960s and 1970s. Retro styles are known for the popular flower power, pop music and pop art along with the boom of advertising. With a varied look of plastic fantastic, disposable and low maintenance to psychedelia. Retro styles are suited to a certain personality and bold approach to complete the look. 

 

Create a Retro Interior design with:

Textures and fabrics in crushed velvet, soft vinyl and shas carpets.

Posters

Bright colours

Linoleum flooring in black and white.

Juke boxes, record players and old phones.

 

RUSTIC

Rustic style is popular style that’s stays in trend with it’s classical simplicity and warm homey feel. Rustic is similar to Country style, with the charm of a family home in the country that many long for in the city. This style is found in various buildings in both country and urban apartments.  Modern rustic interiors are interesting with a mixture of contemporary design and rustic design. An emphasis on unrefined, natural elements and objects is found in rustic interiors.

To create a Rustic design use:

Animal hides

Oversized sturdy furniture with a classical design, often chunky and weathered.

Solid, dark stained timber furniture with matching upholstery of natural leather and rougher fabrics.

Natural raw elements

Floors with wider planks

Paneled walls and ceiling beams

Fireplace

Rock and stone

Natural neutral colour palette varying from whitewashed tones of neutral colours to darker shades of brown.

Repurposed, salvaged, handcrafted items.

Accessories made of wood, natural fibres, wood, rattan, wicker and wrought iron.

 

 

SCANDINAVIAN

Scandinavia is a well known for it’s interior design style. Scandinavian style embraces simplicity, efficiency, functionality and affordability. Influenced by it’s by democratic design ideals, this style has created a balance between warm personal invitations and minimalist efficiency. Scandanavia design styles originated in Northern Europe covering Sweden, Norway and Denmark.

Scandanavian interior design can be divided into two styles.

The first is the Scandinavian mid-century design style, that began in the 1930’s by the modernist movement and is used today.  Born from the principles of modernism and made with local materials, joining clean lines, simplicity, flawless craftsmanship and understated elegance. These principles have made Scandanavian mid-century style long lasting and still used today.

To create a modern Scandinavian interior style with:

Mid-century designed furniture (see Arne Jacobsen , Hans Wegner, Alvar Aalto)

No clutter and clean lines

Plants and greenery

Plenty of natural light

Accents in timber such as pine, beech and ash

Cosy throws

Light muted colours – baby blue, mint green, blush pink and the use of soft greys sparingly.

The second style is Swedish Gustavian country style, similar to the French neoclassical style of  Louis XIV, but less extravagant. King Gustav lll visited the Palace of Versailles in the 1780’s and decided to replicate the style at home. The Gustavian style is a paler version of the French style , with soft furnishings in a muted color palette.  To brighten up dark rooms in the long Scandanavian winters , the colours of pale blues and greys were used.

Creating a Swedish Gustavian country style use

Barrel back chairs

Sofa Benches

Carved wooden settees

Carved woods in pine, birch and beech.

Mora Clock

Muted Colours

Organic textures and linens creating a cozy environment

 

SHABBY CHIC

Starting in the 1980’s Shabby Chic combines a vintage inspired style with soft , feminine elements. Designed with light, airy spaces, creating a balance between a weathered looking English Cottage and the finer things in life.

Furniture is given a weathered or aged look such as sanded milk paint with signs of wear and tear.

The more modern take on Shabby chic is a little more chic and a little less shabby

To create a Shabby Chic interior style with:

Soft cottons and French linens in whites, creams and pastel colours , with pink, light mint green and cool blue being the favorites.

More weathered wood with distressed painted furniture, less wicker and wrought iron

Antiques

The introduction of some darker colors alongside the softer pastel and whites.

Sophisticated floral prints

Dried flowers and quilts with a mix of modern art

 

TRADITIONAL

Traditional interior styling is inspired by the past, with the indulgences and comfort of classic European décor from the 18^th and 19^th century.

Today, Traditional interiors are styled with more modern, elegant elements. This process brings time tested elements, motifs and proportions to fit into a modern lifestyle.

Traditional styled interiors are achieved with elaborate furniture pieces and other design elements with reference to 18^th century Neoclassical, French Country, English or Colonial styles

Wing back chairs and couches, claw foot tables.

Tufted upholstery

Queen Anne, Sheraton and Chippendale Styled furniture in dark wood.

Architectural embellishments with ornate cornice, architraves and skirting boards.

Coffered ceilings

Wall Scones, candelabras and chandeliers

Table lamps and side tables

Silk and velvet fabrics and leather

Fireplaces and bookcases

Pale and simple walls with rich colours and lines and other elements bringing a luxurious feel to the space.

 

TROPICAL

Tropical interiors are inspired by nature with the colours of the Tropics and an abundance of natural materials. Think tropical beaches of the French Polynesia and Hawaii , with romantic beaches, lush jungles and vibrant colours. Tropical interiors reflect a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere.

To create a Tropical Design with animals and plants as focal points, style with :

Bamboo, rattan and teak and mahogany in furniture and doors.

Lush tropical foliage and organic shapes

Large leaf plant prints and bright floral patterns eg. Hibiscus plants

Lush green shades with shades of blue on larger surfaces and warm vibrant colour in pink, purple, orange yellow, brown , coral accessories and fabrics.

 

URBAN CHIC

Chic originates from fashion, indicating trendy elegance and fashionable.

Urban is characteristic of a town or city with suggestions of sophistication. It first appeared as trendy but is presently associated with lower socioeconomic status, calling up images of steel, concrete, and brick for the masses, which has now become dated and common.

Mix the two together, with traditional and trendy style touched and old and new décor and you get Urban Chic. Reflecting the development of cities and towns, Urban Chic spaces are open plan, multifunctional. Lots of creativity can be seen with the transformation of old warehouses ,  townhouses and city houses into  new office spaces and trendy apartments.

To create an Urban Chic design style with:

Graphic Print Wallpaper

Modern Chandeliers

Rustic touches

Leather furniture , vintage style

Rustic touches

Billboards and signs

Exposed bricks and pipes

 

VICTORIAN

Victorian interiors are still popular in the modern 21^st century. Modern Victorian combines modern styling of contemporary pieces with original Victorian architecture. Victorian home décor is luxurious and abundant. High ceilings and well pro-portioned rooms with bold colours and large artworks are found in Victorian styling.

Victorian interior are styled with

Dark walls with ornate skirting and cornices.

William Morris-eques wallpaper

The mixing of new and old such as modern styling on an original fireplace.

An ornate ceiling rose with a modern chandelier

Dark, moody colours

Contemporary statement furniture

 

WABI-SABI

Wabi-Sabi a Japanese term meaning finding beauty in imperfection. Wabi-Sabi interiors are different to others in that they don’t have specific colours, shapes or décor that define them.  Wabi-Sabi design is a cultural extension in basic design following the guiding principles of the Wabi-Sabi philosophy of natural, effortless, lives in, perfectly imperfect.

To create a Wabi-Sabi interior embracing imperfections use:

Lacquered wallpaper

Textured pendant lamps

Dipped ceramics

Farmhouse floorboards

Stoneware

Linen

Handcrafted elements

 

Wow, you’ve made it to the end. Congratulations, you are on your way to creating the interior design style that fits in with you and your family.

There sure are a lot of interior design styles. We will add more detailed info in the coming weeks along with extra design styles. Vintage and Transitional Interior Design Styles will be added soon. 

Please get in touch if you would like more info on a particular interior design style.

Happy Styling

xoxo