When it comes to decorating your home, you may know what you love when you see it, but have a hard time describing your interior design style. Likely you haven’t taken the time to delve into what you do like and why, and you also may be lacking the understanding or vocabulary to describe & define your personal interior design style.
Determine What You Like
So, the first step to identify your interior design style is to find things you like, and we have some tips on how to do just that:
Browse magazines (don’t you mean Houzz or Pinterest?!?)
No, we don’t mean Houzz or Pinterest. These are great, but it can be difficult to zero in on a style that you are most drawn to from the overwhelming number of gorgeous images on these social platforms. Instead, we recommend that you go old-school and flip through magazine pages one by one and tear out the photos of rooms & homes that you’re most drawn to. There’s no right or wrong–just tear out what you love! Study what you tear out and then identify what the images have in common.
There’s a quiz for that
We all love a good online quiz, and there’s certainly no shortage of ones designed to help you find your decorating style. Choose a couple of quizzes to take at your leisure. If they end in similar results, you are definitely on the right track. They’re fun and can help you define your style. Check out these from Houzz and Better Homes and Gardens.
Take a walk-through
No, not of a fancy model home, but your own home. Walk through your house and take notes. In each room, make a list of the furniture and decor that you love, and those things that are just taking up space. Determine what those things that you love have in common and consider those things when making a purchase for your home to help you keep you true to your style.
Find the Design Style That Most Closely Fits Your Taste
Okay, now that you have figured out what you like, it is helpful to learn a bit about the different types of design styles and where your personal style fits – although it’s likely a little bit of a few different styles.
Modern
Modern typically refers to a home with clean, crisp lines, a simple color palette, and the use of materials that can include metal, glass, and steel. Oftentimes described as sleek, there is not a lot of clutter or accessories involved with a modern style.
Contemporary
Contemporary is different from modern because it describes design based on current trends rather than modern’s strict interpretation of design that started in the 20th century. Contemporary is more fluid, with less adherence to one particular style.
Minimalist
Taking the idea of modern design and simplifying them further, the minimalist style uses color palettes that are neutral and airy, furnishings that are simple and streamlined, and nothing is excessive or flamboyant in accessories or décor.
Mid-century modern
If you watch House Hunters on HGTV, you have definitely heard this term! Mid-century modern is a throwback to the design style of the 1950s and 60s, that incorporates retro nostalgia and elements of minimalism. It easily complements any interior and also helps with seamless transition from interior to exterior.
Traditional
This style includes classic details, sumptuous furnishings, and an abundance of accessories. Traditional homes often feature dark, finished wood, rich color palettes, and a variety of textures and curved lines.
Transitional
Borrowing from both traditional and modern designs to facilitate a space that’s not “too much,” in terms of one style or another. Transitional design includes relatively neutral color palettes, creating a calming and relaxed space that manages to feel both stylish and sleek, as well as, warm and inviting.
Shabby chic
A vintage-inspired style, shabby chic is often compared to a bohemian look, but it tends to be more feminine, soft, and delicate. Furnishings are often either distressed or appear that way; paint tends to have antique-style finishes and color palettes include white, cream, and pastels.
Coastal
A relaxed and comfortable style inspired by the beach and ocean, coastal designs often feature light, airy color palettes with cool neutral shades paired with blues and greens. Furnishings are often white or beige and decor incudes elements of wood and are often inspired by the sea.
At Compass Homes, we build homes with more thought per square foot, the kind with warmth, grace, charm, and character. For more design trends and tips, follow our blog, explore our Inspiration Gallery, or contact us today to get started designing your new dream home.
