Decorative item & Furniture Renovation
Different Interior Design Styles
Modern, industrial, Scandinavian, ethnic... and the list goes on. One of the main challenges many of our clients face is a lack of understanding or vocabulary to describe and define their personal interior design style. With so many decorating styles available, it can be difficult to determine which one suits you best. Some people also like to combine elements from several styles to create their ideal look.
A good starting point for an interior design project is to learn a little about each style and how they differ from one another.
Perhaps you'd like to change your style but don't know where to start? Keep reading this guide by Delisse, which decodes everything you need to know about the main decorating styles of the moment.
The modern style
The term "modern" is a general term that typically refers to a home with clean, precise lines, a simple color palette, and the use of materials that may include metal, glass, and steel.
Modern design emphasizes a sense of simplicity in every element, including furniture. A word commonly used to describe the modern style is "clean and minimalist."
We're here to clarify the difference between modern and contemporary. Despite their many similarities, there are a few key signs that indicate you're in the presence of a modern interior. Modern design refers to a specific period. Contemporary design is constantly evolving. Modern interior design emerged in the mid-20th century.
For example, the furniture features clean lines with smooth, elegant surfaces. Metal, chrome, and glass, in particular, are designers' preferred choices. In modern interiors, decor is kept to a minimum. Designers tend to get rid of knick-knacks and use art as the primary decoration. It's common to see colorful and bold accents in art and furniture within an otherwise neutral space.
Contemporary style
The main difference between modern and contemporary design styles is that modern is a strict interpretation of design that began in the 20th century. Contemporary, on the other hand, is more fluid and can represent a sense of current events with less adherence to a particular style. For example, contemporary style may feature curved lines, whereas modern design does not.
When you examine interior design styles throughout history, contemporary interior design is the only one that is constantly evolving. The contemporary design style will most likely continue to evolve throughout the 21st century. Contemporary refers to anything that is of the present moment, creating an environment suitable for a lifetime.
Minimalist style
The minimalist concept is very popular in some English-speaking countries. It takes the principles of modern design and simplifies them even further.
Color palettes are neutral and airy, furniture is simple and uncluttered, and nothing is excessive or flamboyant in the accessories or decor. Ultimately, minimalism is defined by a sense of functionality and ultra-clean lines.
Contemporary design and minimalist design share many qualities. Both feature simple shapes, clean lines, and simple finishes. The minimalist decorating style draws inspiration from Japanese design and focuses on the principle that "less is more." Minimalist design embraces empty spaces.
While most minimalist interiors feature a neutral color scheme, primary colors can also be used as accent colors. With this "less is more" philosophy, you'll find that functional furniture is the most essential design element.
Storage is so important in minimalist interior design that furniture often incorporates hidden storage. For example, a coffee table that lifts to reveal a storage compartment is one of the many creative solutions used in minimalist interiors.
Industrial style
The industrial style, as the name suggests, draws inspiration from warehouses or urban lofts. There's a sense of raw, unfinished quality to many elements, and exposed brick, pipes, and wood are common. An iconic example of industrial design would be a renovated loft in a former industrial building. While industrial interior design is undeniably fashionable, it has a history. When factories in Western Europe closed at the end of the Second Industrial Revolution, they left behind many large, unoccupied buildings. Increased population led to the conversion of industrial areas into residential neighborhoods. Materials like brick and concrete are excellent ways to add character to a space. You won't hear the words "soft" or "intimate" used to describe this unique style of interior design. Its masculine tendencies are softened through the use of textured surfaces. Oversized artworks and decorative accessories are perfect complements. The furniture is often raw or unfinished and combined with antiques.The Scandinavian style
Scandinavian design pays homage to the simple lifestyle of the Nordic countries. Scandinavian furniture design often feels like a work of art, despite its simplicity and understated elegance. The pieces are functional and feature interesting lines, many with a sculptural influence. Other common characteristics include predominantly white color palettes and the incorporation of natural elements such as pressed wood, glossy plastics, enameled aluminum, steel, and wide planks. Any splashes of color typically come from the use of art, throws of natural fibers or furs, or a single piece of furniture. Natural and spacious lighting, fewer accessories, and functional furniture characterize Scandinavian designs. Scandinavian design is one of the easiest interior design styles to recognize. Think light, airy, and organic. Wood is almost always an ash color in Scandinavian interiors. Nordic spaces exude a relaxing and inviting atmosphere. Among their key features are :• white walls • large mirrors • comfortable and cozy textiles
Layered fabrics, glass furniture, clean lines, and textures create a truly comfortable and cozy atmosphere.Transitional style
Transitional style is very popular because it borrows from both traditional and modern design to facilitate a space that isn't "too much," in terms of style or otherwise. There's a sense of balance that is appealing and unexpected. A transitional design might incorporate modern materials, such as steel and glass, and then pair them with plush furniture. Transitional design also features relatively neutral color palettes, creating a calm and relaxed space that manages to be both elegant and streamlined, as well as warm and inviting. Transitional style is an ideal solution for someone who doesn't define their style one way or the other between classic and contemporary, says interior designer Vanessa Yufe of VY Designs. Rather, there's a perfect transition between these two aesthetics, and when this balance is executed well, the result is usually a sophisticated yet relaxed and approachable interior.The French country style
Warm, earthy colors are characteristic of a French country design style, as are distressed, decorative wooden furniture pieces. This style is inspired by our beautiful farmhouses. French country design can include soft, warm tones of red, yellow, or gold, and natural materials like stone and brick. "French peasant" design might incorporate collections of decorated porcelain tableware, linens, and bedspreads. Like many other interior design styles, this style is a sophisticated blend of several different styles. It all starts with timeless antique furniture. For example, a Louis VI chair updated with a modern print. Juxtapositions are found throughout this eclectic, feminine, and neutral design style.Bohemian style
A very popular style for interior design and fashion, it reflects a carefree lifestyle with few rules, except for following your heart's desires. Bohemian homes might include vintage furniture and lighting, textiles and rugs inspired by artisans from around the world, displays of collections, and items found in a wide variety of sources, including flea markets and during travels. Floor cushions and comfortable seating are common when incorporating the bohemian style. This eclectic style might feature an ultra-glamorous chandelier paired with a well-worn rug and a mid-century chair. Bohemian style embodies a laissez-faire attitude where anything goes as long as you love it. Just like mid-century style, bohemian interiors continue to gain popularity. With many brands fully embracing this trend, there's no better time than now to explore your bohemian side. In short, bohemian design is a free-spirited aesthetic that blends different cultures and artistic expressions into an eclectic, unconventional style. A relaxed bohemian atmosphere emphasizes nature. However, bold patterns and vibrant colors are common in furniture and accessories. When you step into a bohemian-designed home, you immediately feel immersed in another culture. Travel mementos are on display, and the ambiance is very nomadic. When comparing different design styles, bohemian is one of the few where order isn't required. Mixing patterns and colors is encouraged. Similarly, there's a growing trend toward a modern bohemian style. The addition of animal hides, metallic accessories, and rich wood helps to modernize this collector's style. We love that bohemian-style interiors use things in unconventional ways.Rustic style
Rustic design draws inspiration from nature, utilizing raw and often unfinished elements, including wood and stone. Rustic design can incorporate outdoor accessories whose warmth emanates from the design, and architectural details that may include features such as vaulted ceilings adorned with wooden beams or reclaimed wood flooring. Many designs now integrate rustic style with more modern furniture and accessories. When considering rustic interior design, it can be defined by a few basic characteristics. It will always feature natural materials, industrial touches, and the charm of pretty farmhouses in the countryside. The rustic design style originated from the Romantic movement. It emphasizes simplicity and the effortless beauty of nature. For rustic interiors, it is common to see living room design ideas centered around a fireplace.The Asian Zen style
Have you ever heard of feng shui? Asian Zen interiors originated from contemporary design. They emphasize clean lines, interesting shapes, and a relaxing atmosphere. References to nature are essential for creating the ultimate Zen space. Asian interiors are often asymmetrical and use circles more frequently than squares. Curtain walls or door panels are common for dividing a larger space and creating a sense of privacy. The color palette is strictly drawn from nature to maintain a serene and calming ambiance. If you're looking to create a minimalist interior design in your home, drawing inspiration from the Asian Zen style might be the right direction to take, as an Asian Zen interior is minimal yet incorporates unique natural elements. Think of a minimalist space furnished with organic materials and filled with natural light. Imagine a light and airy space, free of clutter, offering a sense of openness for the ultimate oasis. An Asian Zen interior like this one should be visually balanced, with plenty of floor space promoting calm and peace.
