Before my initial design consults, I typically send my clients a design questionnaire. This useful tool helps the client and myself determine what their wants, needs, and tastes are for the project at hand. However, there is one question that either gets left blank or gets a big “NO IDEA” marked next to it. “ What is your Interior design style?”

When I ask my clients to clarify or give me examples , I get the STINK EYE. Can you believe it?! Unfortunately, this happens roughly 85% of the time, the other 15% I am blessed with the “deer in the headlights” look. It took me weeks months to figure out that most of my clients had no idea what I was talking about ! They had no idea what a transitional space looked like, or that bohemian could be a design style for their home.

So, in an effort to help you understand design styles and ultimately encourage you to discover your style( as well as minimize the number of times I get the stink eye) I have simplified ten common interior design styles.

Traditional

The traditional style is probably the most familiar design style. Symmetry and comfort are important when designing in the traditional style. While not overly ornate, it does not project a minimalist feel. Common design characteristics are:

• Neutral walls

• Color typically introduced through accessories such as artwork

• Deep wood tone

  • Cherry, maple, mahogany

• Plush furniture

• Solid color fabrics are common but can be:

  • Floral, damask, paisley

• Common fabrics are:

  • Cashmere, silk, velvet, cotton, linen

• Built in cabinetry

• Detailed wood

• Claw foot table

• Wingback chairs

• Bronze accents

Rustic

Rustic is a nature inspired style that creates a powerful outdoor connection. Rustic is usually associated with ski lodges, cabin, and resorts, but can be used just about anywhere. The warm and inviting elements encourage relaxation and appeals to many. Characteristics of the rustic style are:

• Warm earthy tones

• Wood that is commonly:

  • Rough hewn, reclaimed, distressed

• Metals that are commonly:

  • Tarnished, bronze, hammered

• Repurposed objects

  • Think metal washtubs for sinks

• Sturdy fabrics

  • Linens, wool, cotton, burlap

Rustic dining room design by new york architect Granoff Architects

Arts and Crafts

The Arts and Crafts style is very widely known and popular. It is a very pure style that focuses on craftsmanship. Think Frank Lloyd Wright. Common design characteristics are:

• Warm neutrals/ colors of nature

• Copper and bronze metals

  • Usually antiqued or patinated

• Expertly crafted wood in rich tones that highlight the natural beauty and grain of wood

  • Typically oak

• Functional furnishings

• Natural flooring materials

  • Stone, Hardwood, Cork, Slate

• Mika and Tiffany lighting

• Art glass in simple geometric patterns

Craftsman entry design by minneapolis general contractor John Kraemer & Sons

Transitional

Transitional style is simply the combining the “old” with the “new”. Transitional creates a timeless and restful space that appeals to the masses. Common design characteristics are:

• Warm neutral tones such as khaki with espresso brown accents

• Simple lines and crisp profiles

• Texture brings the interest to transitional spaces, rather than pops of color

  • Coarse weaves, natural fibers, blend of matte and shiny finishes

  • Leather, sisal, burlap, chenille, rattan

• Understated patterns

• Simple window treatments

• Minimal accents

Industrial

Industrial is a raw style that encourages open concepts and takes a minimalist approach. It mimics a “warehouse” look, but with added comfort. Common design characteristics of the Industrial style are:

• Warm neutral tones

• Wood and metal surfaces, often combined

• Exposed pipings, ducts, and other structural elements as showpieces/focal points

• Brick and concrete either on walls or floors

• Furniture inspired by old factory and laboratory pieces, or actual vintage pieces

Industrial dining room design by san francisco interior designer Muratore Construction + Design

Bohemian

Bohemian is an eclectic, free spirited style bursting with color and pattern. Bohemian is not for those afraid of color and attention. When done right, the bohemian style creates an energetic and creative space that expertly blends multiple patterns and color. Common design characteristics are:

• Bright saturated colors

• Pattern on pattern

• Layered rugs and textiles

• Tapestries

• Moroccan inspired decor

• Macrame

• Plants, plants, plants!

• Beaded curtains

• Lanterns and chandeliers

Source: DigsDigs

Minimalist

The minimalist is a crisp, clean, almost bare style. It encourages a simplified, uncluttered life, keeping only what is essential. Common design characteristics are:

• Muted colors

• Simple and sharp lines

• Low furniture

• Usually one single “stand out” piece

• Allows texture and materials to bring the space together rather than decor and color

Source: Dezeen

Eclectic

The eclectic style blends textures, time periods, styles, trends, and colors. This is probably one of the hardest design styles to achieve as it can look haphazard. Common design characteristics are:

• Wide variety of color palettes can be used

• Intentful mismatching

• Repetition in shapes

• Layered textures

• Unexpected accents

Eclectic living room design

Mid Century Modern

Mid Century Modern is an uncomplicated and simple style that promotes easy living. The phrase “less is more” certainly applies, as with this style nothing unnecessary is used. It also strives to incorporate a strong indoor-outdoor flow. Think big windows that let nature and natural light shine through. Common design characteristics are:

• Neutrals paired with bright unexpected color combos

  • Tangerines, mustards, avocados

• Wood details as focal point

  • Teak commonly used for furniture

• Graphic patterns such as:

  • bold geometrics, strong curves, whimsical motifs

• Heavy textures in materials

  • Burlap, nubby wool knits

• Statement lighting

• Period Art

Midcentury living room design by other media and blogs Jeni Lee

Victorian

Victorian is a very ornate and cluttered style. It was a popular style among the wealthy in its hey day, but has fizzled out to a outdated and rarely used style in recent years. Some designers are putting a new spin on this style, featuring less clutter and more focus on function. Common characteristics are:

• Subdued tones such as:

  • Rosey pinks, lavenders, grays, sage

• Ornate furniture

• Wallpaper

  • Large animal, bird, and floral prints

• Large patterned rugs typically centered in a room

• Multiple patterns per room

• Heavy silks, damasks, lace

• Heavily patterned floral prints on toile or chintz

• Ornate lamps

  • Tiffany

• Stained glass

Victorian living room design by other photographer Elad Gonen

So now that you have a basic understanding of the 10 Most Common Interior Design Styles, go easy on your designer, no stink eyes allowed! And remember, don’t feel like you HAVE to stick to one particular style. These are merely guidelines, get creative! Who says you can’t be a bohemian minimalist?!

Need assistance in discovering your style and pulling the space of your dream together? Check out my design packages here or feel free to contact me with questions!

Peace,

Jessica, “ Stink eye survivor”

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