What Are The Different Home Decor Styles?
Posted by Belle and June on February 10, 2024
Whether you just moved into your dream home or are looking to revamp your current interior design, understanding different home decor styles is key to creating a personalized yet stylish space. Maybe you’ve heard of a few popular interior design styles, but want more inspiration. Or, maybe you’re trying to decide between two of your favorite styles.
Luckily, our experts at Belle & June know a thing or two about interior design. From the timeless elegance of traditional design to the bold statements made by eclectic and modern styles, we’ve got you covered. We'll tell you everything you need to know about different interior design styles, highlighting the key features, iconic elements, and distinctive characteristics that define each one.
1. Traditional: Timeless Design
The most enduring and classic option, traditional interior design is the foundation which all other home decor styles are built upon. Expect rich wood tones, intricate details, and a symmetrical balance between the masculine and feminine. However, traditional style is special in that you can truly make it your own without sacrificing sophistication.
Colors Used:
- Primary colors like red, blue, and yellow
- Dark, rich tones like burgundy, forest green, and navy
- Neutrals like beige, cream, and taupe
Fabrics Used:
- Plush, luxurious fabrics like silk, velvet, and linen
- Traditional patterns like floral or damask
Furniture Used:
- Curved furniture made from wood, rattan, steel, and lacquer
- Dark wood furniture with ornate detailing (e.g. walnut, oak, and rosewood)
- Wingback chairs and antique-style sofas
2. Minimalist: Embracing Simplicity
The embodiment of “less is more”, minimalist interior design showcases functional clean lines and neutral tones. revolves around the principle of "less is more." It emphasizes clean lines, a neutral color palette, and a focus on functionality. Think of an art gallery in a museum: a decluttered, open space where you can make a select few personalized features stand out.
Colors Used:
- White, beige, and other neutral tones
- Limited pops of color to create focal points
Fabrics Used:
Furniture Used:
- Flat, smooth surfaces with strong clean lines
- Furniture made from marble, travertine, and rich woods
- Furniture pieces with dual functions and extra storage to reduce clutter
3. Coastal: Marine Freshness
Unlike a tacky lobster shack, the coastal interior design style combines the freshness of the ocean with the tranquility and sophistication of subtle colors and patterns. Combine these light and airy color palettes with your favorite nautical elements to create an inviting atmosphere.
Colors Used:
- Soft blues, greens, and sandy neutrals
- A coastal palette of whites and creams
Fabrics Used:
Furniture Used:
- Weathered wood, rattan, and wicker furniture pieces
- White chairs, tables, and other furniture
- Striped pillows, tablecloths, and other finishing touches
4. Mid-Century Modern: Retro Revival
An innovation of the traditional style, mid-century modern design emerged in the mid-20th century. Like minimalism, mid-century modern style prioritizes clean lines and functionality, but with far more bold patterns and organic shapes. Mix and match mid-century materials and designs to create the perfect retro room.
Colors Used:
- Neutral bases of white, grey, and black
- Vibrant focal points like orange, teal, and mustard
Fabrics Used:
- Textured fabrics like tweed or leather
- Upholstery with fun and creative geometric patterns
Furniture Used:
- Teek pieces with gentle curves and clean lines
- Angular and sleek furniture pieces
- Sofas paired with armchairs and wooden coffee tables
5. Contemporary: Sleek and Sophisticated
Always changing with the times, contemporary interior design always reflects the most stylish current trends. To maintain style in this ever-changing environment, contemporary design incorporates clean lines, neutral color palettes, and functional pieces. By being able to incorporate other styles into your contemporary home, you can create a personalized and trendy space.
Colors Used:
- Neutral color palette with pops of bold, vibrant hues
- Monochromatic schemes, including blacks and whites
Fabrics Used:
- Smooth and sleek fabrics like leather and polished cotton
- Modern geometric patterns and abstract designs
Furniture Used:
- Streamlined and functional furniture with simple shapes
- Metal and glass accents for a modern touch
- Artistic lighting pieces that serve as functional focal points
6. Eclectic Style: Unapologetically Creative
If you’re a fan of bold colors, diverse patterns, and playful elements, look no further than eclectic interior design. Eclectic style combined a vibrant mix of fabrics, textures, and design elements from different areas to create a unique juxtaposition. It’s one of the easiest styles to incorporate personalized elements into, as it encourages freedom of expression and creative combinations.
Colors Used:
- Vibrant and contrasting color combinations
- Rich jewel tones mixed with neutrals
Fabrics Used:
- Diverse fabric choices, from bold prints to textured solids
- Layered textiles for a cozy, inviting look
Furniture Used:
- Statement pieces that draw attention (e.g. a bold red sofa)
- Furniture with unique shapes and patterns
- Large art pieces that draw the eye
7. Art Deco: Glamorous and Luxurious
Who doesn’t love the Roaring 20s? Capture the magic of that period with art deco interior design, a style synonymous with retro luxury, glamour, and opulence. More specifically, the Art Deco style is characterized by bold colors, geometric patterns, and metallic accents that can easily be adapted to your own taste.
Colors Used:
- Vibrant colors like gold, black, and jewel tones
- Contrasting color combinations for a dramatic effect
Fabrics Used:
- Luxurious materials like velvet, silk, and satin
- Incorporated zigzags, chevrons, and other bold patterns
Furniture Used:
- Streamlined, yet intricate furniture with geometric details
- Lacquered finishes and reflective surfaces
- Exotic metal or wood furniture (e.g. zebra woods and mahogany)
8. Industrial: Urban Edge
Stylishly masculine, industrial interior design draws inspiration from urban lofts and warehouses. Expect exposed brick, metal accents, and raw, unfinished elements incorporated into any industrial style. These gritty and utilitarian elements create a stylish, yet functional decor.
Colors Used:
- Neutral tones like gray, brown, and black
- Metallic accents and finishes
Fabrics Used:
- Utilitarian fabrics like canvas and burlap
- Leather upholstery for furniture
Furniture Used:
- Functional and robust furniture with a focus on metal and wood
- Repurposed and salvaged items for a vintage industrial feel
- Utilitarian pieces made from metals like iron and steel
9. Modern Farmhouse: Modern Rustic Charm
Incredibly popular for its combination of contemporary elements and rustic charm, the modern farmhouse style is the perfect way to make your home feel warm and cozy. This feeling is accomplished through the combination of reclaimed wood, clean lines, and neutral tones, resulting in a style that celebrates the simplicity of rural living with a modern twist. The design also emphasizes a connection to nature, often incorporating natural materials and plenty of natural light.
Colors Used:
- Neutral colors like white, beige, and gray
- Accents of earthy tones and muted colors
Fabrics Used:
Furniture Used:
- Distressed wood furniture with a mix of traditional and modern pieces
- Cozy and inviting seating arrangements
- Comfortable rugs, linens, and other fabric touches
10. Scandinavian: Simplicity and Functionality
Popularized by countries like Sweden (think IKEA), the Scandinavian style emphasizes simplicity, functionality, and a connection to nature. Scandinavian design utilizes clean lines, neutral colors, and an abundance of natural light to create a bright and airy atmosphere. It’s an absolute go-to for clean comfort and practicality.
Colors Used:
- Predominantly white with touches of light, muted colors
- Limited contrasts of black, gray, or natural wood tones
Fabrics Used:
Furniture Used:
- Streamlined and functional furniture
- Light-colored wood chairs, tables, and couches with sleek designs
- Furniture including extra storage to reduce clutter
11. Rustic: Natural Chic
From pelts to antlers, rustic interior design style combines different elements of farmhouse and industrial styles. The rustic style is rooted in the charm of the countryside and embraces natural elements that connect your home to the great outdoors. Use warm, earthy tones, reclaimed wood, and organic textures to create a cozy and inviting retreat.
Colors Used:
- Neutral colors like white, beige, and gray
- Earthy, natural accents of greens, browns, gray, orange, and reds
Fabrics Used:
Furniture Used:
- Wood and stone tables, chairs, and other furniture pieces
- Pieces featuring natural materials like wood, bone, and fur
- Furniture featuring earthy tones and muted colors
12. Boho: Beautifully Free-Spirited
The boho style, otherwise known as bohemian, is the best way to fill your living room or bedroom with a free-spirited and personalized atmosphere. It embraces vibrant colors and mixed patterns. This option has many similarities with eclectic interior design style, but with more global elements.
Colors Used:
- Rich jewel tones and other vibrant hues
- Earthy and warm tones with pops of bright colors
Fabrics Used:
- Textured fabrics, such as Moroccan rugs and woven materials
- Layered fabrics with different patterns and prints
Furniture Used:
- Combination of vintage and new furniture
- Furniture with unique shapes, patterns, and designs
- Low-slung seating and floor cushions for a casual and laid-back feel
13. Victorian: Ornate Elegance
Similar to the traditional interior design style, this option is characterized by ornate details, intricate patterns, and a sense of opulence. Expect dark woods, plush fabrics, and elaborate furnishings that transport your interior design back in time.
Colors Used:
- Deep, jewel-toned colors like emerald green and ruby red
- A touch of dark wood tones scattered throughout the home
Fabrics Used:
- Fine and colorful velvets and silks
- Elaborate patterns like florals and damask
Furniture Used:
- Antique-inspired furniture with carved detailing
- Heavy, substantial pieces with intricate designs
- Dark wooden furniture (e.g. walnut, oak, and rosewood)
14. Asian Zen: Tranquil Harmony
Inspired by Eastern tradition and philosophy? Asian Zen interior design also draws inspiration from that source, emphasizing balance, simplicity, and harmony with nature. Neutral colors, natural materials, and minimalist decor excel at fostering a serene ambiance. If you want something minimalist while still being unique, this style is perfect for you.
Colors Used:
- Soft, neutral tones like beige, white, and muted greens
- Accents of natural, earthy colors
Fabrics Used:
Furniture Used:
- Low-profile furniture with clean lines
- Natural materials like bamboo and wood
- Stone accents reminiscent of a zen garden
15. Shabby Chic: Vintage Charm
Shabby might not be the first word you associate with sleek, modern aesthetics, but maybe it should be. Embracing distressed furniture, floral patterns, and a pastel color palette, shabby chic interior design is an incredibly charming choice. Most commonly, this style utilizes vintage pieces and modern design philosophies to create a relaxed, comfortable ambiance.
Colors Used:
- Soft pastels like pale pink, mint, and powder blue
- Faded and weathered color tones
Fabrics Used:
- Floral prints and vintage-inspired patterns
- Soft and worn fabrics for a comfortable feel
Furniture Used:
- Distressed and painted furniture with a vintage look
- Combination of vintage and new pieces for a comfortable feel
- Accent rugs, blankets, and other accessories for chairs and couches
Choosing A Style That Works For You
Whether you’re an interior designer or not, there’s no right or wrong style to choose. Your personal style is just that, personal to you, and finding it is a journey. Here are some considerations to guide you in choosing a style that resonates with you:
- Personal Preferences: When looking for interior design styles that speak you to, pay attention to the colors, patterns, and themes that catch your eye. Consider searching for them specifically and finding the styles that incorporate them.
- Lifestyle Needs: Think about how your day-to-day hobbies and activities impact your space. Whether you need something family-friendly, entertainment-focused, or a serene retreat, different styles will complement different lifestyles.
- Functionality: Prioritize functionality based on your needs. Scandinavian and minimalist styles offer less clutter and more hidden storage, for example.
- Budget Considerations: Different styles may involve varying costs. Determine your decor budget and choose an interior design style that works for you financially.
Long-Term Appeal: Do you care about long-term appeal? If you plan on selling your home or keeping up with trends, choose a design that won't feel outdated quickly.
Shop Our Diverse Home Decor Options at Belle and June
Unleash your inner interior designer with our wide selection of home decor options at Belle & June. Visit our website at https://www.Belleandjune.com to shop our catalog of sofas, chairs, lighting, and more today. From coastal to contemporary interior design styles, we offer decor that can spice up any interior.