elnaznamakistudio

Working with an interior designer is a good thing, especially if you have no clue how to get your home ready for living. But it can be difficult to convey your requirements and needs to the interior designer. You may lack the vocabulary needed to define what style you are after. The difficulty comes from the fact that there are numerous styles. Trying to decipher which is which can be mission impossible. That is why it is a good idea to consider the following guide on interior design styles to figure if they are right for you. 

Contemporary

A lot of people use the terms ‘contemporary’ and ‘modern’ interchangeably. However, the two styles are somewhat different. The contemporary design features a fluid character with a sense of currency. It doesn’t adhere to any design style in particular. For instance, contemporary styles curvy lines, along with a modern overall look. 

Modern

It is a good idea to explain modern style immediately after contemporary so that you know the difference. The modern style is all about crisp, clean lines. Most of the times it comes with a simple colour palette and uses a lot of steel, glass and metal. There is a sense of simplicity in the details of modern styles, something that makes you say ‘sleek’ when you look at the room. There is certainly not a lot of clutter involved in this style. 

Minimalist

Speaking of less clutter, we must mention the minimalist style. It takes a great deal from modern design but takes it to another level of terms of simplicity. The colour palette of this style is usually neutral/airy, the furnishings are streamlined, and there is pretty much nothing that will strike you as expensive in terms of décor. There is one word that defines minimalist style: functionality. 

Scandinavian

This kind of style is common among Nordic countries, where simplicity reigns supreme. The furniture is often beautiful and feels like a work of art, yet it is simple and quite understated. The interesting lines don’t take away from functionality. An all-white colour palette is typical for this style, and the pops of colour usually come from art, throws or single furniture items. Another thing is that this style utilises bright plastics, form-pressed wood and wide plank flooring. This style fits spacious rooms with plenty of natural light. 

Rustic

If you are looking for natural inspiration, then the rustic design is the right one for you. It often uses unfinished and raw wood and stone elements. You can easily incorporate outdoor elements in this style. Many of the other design integrate rustic elements, especially modern and contemporary.

Industrial

The industrial style is one that draws inspiration from an urban loft or a warehouse. It comes with a certain sense of rawness, unfinished elements in the form of exposed brick, wood and ductwork. Some of the elements that contribute to the industrial look are old timber, high ceilings and metal fixtures. 

Traditional

The traditional design is all about sumptuous furnishings, plenty of accessories and classic details. For example, a traditional home would feature wooden elements with a dark finish, plenty of curvy lines and textures. It is the furnishings that usually stand out the most with their fabrics and ornate elements. This kind of design offers depth and a sense of dimensionality. 

These are just a few of the most common interior design styles that you will do well to consider when you are deciding on a look for your new home. 

© Elnaz Namaki Studio