10 unique interior design styles/decors - Architecture

As we evolve, our homes should too.

"The details are not the details, they make the design"   -    Charles Eames

Interior design helps in achieving a healthier and more aesthetically pleasing environment for the people using the space. Interior spaces must be functional, safe and beautiful. One must accurately select decorative items such as colours, lighting and material.

After all, don't we all want an elegant and pleasing space to live in?

Below I've written about a few unique interior design styles which can be incorporated even by a common man in this space without the need of a professional.

Traditional interior design is typically defined as being predictable, yet both cozy and comfortable at the same time. It gives a feel that is completely opposite to the minimalist. It projects a few qualities like:

1. Neutral walls - This is done in order to visually ground any elaborate furnishings that are in the same space.

2. Colour typically introduced through accessories.

3. Deep wood tone - Cherry, Maple, Mahogany.

4. Common fabrics are - Cashmere, Silk, Velvet, Cotton, Linen.

5. Detailed wood.

6. Bronze accents.

7. Furniture style mainly consists of clawfoot table and wingback chairs.

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. It projects a few qualities like:

1. Warm earthy tones.

2. Wood that is commonly- Rough hewn, Reclaimed, Distressed.

3. Metals that are commonly - Tarnished, Bronze, Hammered.

4. Repurposed objects - Think metal washtubs for sinks.

5. Sturdy fabrics - Linens, Wool, Cotton, Burlap.

The Arts and Crafts style is very widely known and popular. It is a very pure style that focuses on craftsmanship. It projects a few qualities like :

1. Warm/neutral colours of nature.

2. Copper and Bronze metals - usually antiqued or patinated.

3.Expertly crafted wood in rich tones that highlight the natural beauty and grain of wood- typically oak.

4. Authentic character with some DIY arts and crafts.

5. Flooring is mostly natural stone or slate tiles.

6. Lighting is from beautifully crafted lamps made of glass.

7. Fireplace is an integral part of this style.

Transitional style is simply the combining the “old” with the “new”. Transitional creates a timeless and restful space that appeals to the masses. It projects qualities like :

1. Neutral colours such as creams, taupes, greys and blacks.

2. Contrast is highlighted through textures or tones.

3. Minimal accessories.

4. Materials that were utilised in the past, but incorporated into the home.

5. Fabrics such as suede, chenille and leather.

6. Bold furnishings with classic, simple lines - not too many curves.

7. Mirrored, glass and metallic furnishings and decor.

Industrial is a raw style that encourages open concepts and takes a minimalist approach. It mimics a “warehouse” look, but with added comfort. It projects qualities like :

1. Exposed ceiling - pipes and ducts to show it's unfinished.

2. Metal surfaces are exposed in the columns and beams, typically like the industrial era.

3. Wood, concrete and bricks are common materials used for walls.

4. Vintage furniture are used that has some metal.

5. Colours are kept warm, earthy and neutral staying true to the nature of materials.

6. Ceiling height is unusually more.

Bohemian is a free spirited style bursting with colour and pattern. Bohemian is not for those afraid of colour and attention. When done right, the bohemian style creates an energetic and creative space that expertly blends multiple patterns and colour. It projects qualities like :

1.Simple base colour - Warm and earthy tones make the perfect canvas.

2. Botanicals fit perfectly in this style as plants are affordable.

3. Layering similar patterns and adding a decadent note to any area.

4. Contrasting patterned rugs, cushions and throws.

5. Low lying furniture.

6. Shy away from minimalism.

The eclectic style blends textures, time periods, styles, trends, and colours. This is probably one of the hardest design styles to achieve as it can look haphazard. It projects a few qualities like :

1. A calm mix of periods and styles.

2. Neutral background colours.

3. Unexpected use of materials/items.

4. Uniqueness in furnishings and art.

5. Everything has it's place but it may look cluttered.

6. Handmade items or items with sentimental value.

7. Celebration of contrasts.

The minimalist is a crisp, clean, almost bare style. It encourages a simplified, uncluttered life, keeping only what is essential. It projects a few qualities like :

1. Simple, efficient and straightforward.

2. Makes the spaces uncomplicated and predictable.

3. No extra accessories or furnishings.

4. Avoids bright and bold colours.

5. Neutral colour palette - light colour tones for walls, floors and ceilings.

6. Strategy to make the space look huge.

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. It projects a few qualities like :

1. Several parts of the house must be asymmetric. 

2. Big windows for sunlight.

3. Naturally integrated to nature like trees, woods or even water.

4. Central colour is warm and natural like a transition of wood colour.

5. Creates an illusion of having wide rooms.

6. Geometrical patterns give a graphic impression.

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. It projects qualities like :

1. Wallpaper was a big aspect for this style.

2. Parquet flooring or mid-toned polished floorboards.

3. A large interesting rug or patterned carpet in the middle.

4. Soft, subdued tones - nothing bright or vivid.

5. Styles of fabric - heavy silk damask and heavily patterned floral print.

6. Multiple lamps that give soft, ambient lighting.

7. Furniture should be prominently displayed.

So now that you have an understanding on the basic styles it would be easier to incorporate certain elements without the need of an expert. You can also merge a few styles together and give different rooms different looks.

Feel free to contact me for any queries. If you have any feed backs or suggestions please do drop them in the comment section.

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