Interior design is constantly evolving, but some styles never go out of fashion. From contemporary minimalism to eclectic maximalism, each style has its own unique traits. Whether you're looking to create a new look for your home, or want to complement your existing decor, understanding the most iconic interior design styles can be a valuable source of inspiration.
We've rounded up the 11 most popular and timeless interior design styles, and distilled their defining elements, to help you make your home look the way you want it. Use these classic aesthetics as a guide for your next interior design project.
#1 Scandinavian
The Scandinavian style is often associated with the minimalist displays of IKEA, but there's more to it than just white walls. To achieve this cozy Nordic look, play with natural light, warm woods, and muted colors, and prioritize function over decoration. Hygge, a key aspect of Scandinavian design, is all about creating a cozy atmosphere, so add plush area rugs, throw blankets, and textural fabrics to make your space feel warm and inviting.
#2 Modern Farmhouse
The modern farmhouse style combines rustic charm with contemporary design and has been growing in popularity since the mid-2010s. To create this look, you'll need clean lines, neutral colors, and raw materials, such as exposed beams, reclaimed wood, or firewood. Don't forget to add a touch of shiplap! Whether you're decorating your kitchen, bedroom, or living room, the key to a modern farmhouse aesthetic is combining contemporary sophistication with rustic natural materials.
#3 Midcentury Modern
The midcentury modern design emerged in the mid-20th century, at a time when homeowners were looking for functional and practical designs that would benefit their families. The style was characterized by clean lines, bold accent colors, and furniture and finishes made of wood. The geometric shapes and nods to nature in midcentury modern design are still popular today and evoke a sense of nostalgia, making this style a timeless classic.
#4 French Country
Bring the elegance of the French countryside into your home with the French country interior design style. This style is all about soft tones, vintage detailing, and a mix of muted colors, making it a sophisticated and feminine take on farmhouse design. To achieve this look, use furniture with weathered wood and chipped paint surfaces, and balance rustic elements with elegant details like a crystal chandelier or gilded mirror.
#5 Industrial
The industrial design style was inspired by the Industrial Revolution and is characterized by open floor plans, high ceilings, and the use of existing materials like exposed brick walls and concrete floors. To create this style, incorporate materials like distressed leather for furniture and mixed metals for lighting, hardware, and accents. Showcase salvaged items like gears and old machine parts for a touch of industrial charm. Caged lights and Edison bulbs will help tie the look together.
#6 Bohemian
Bohemian style is all about free-spirited individuality and creativity. This design style is eclectic, featuring an array of colors, patterns, and textures. It’s a mix of old and new, high and low, and incorporates vintage, ethnic, and handcrafted elements. Textiles, like vintage rugs and patterned throw pillows, are a key component of bohemian style, along with global and nature-inspired accents.
#7 Rustic
Rustic interior design brings a natural and earthy feel to your home. This style is inspired by the outdoors, with a focus on organic textures, raw materials, and natural colors. Reclaimed woods, stone, and metal are often incorporated into the rustic design, along with elements such as exposed brick, distressed finishes, and wrought iron accents. The goal is to create a warm and cozy atmosphere that feels like a cabin in the woods.
#8 Hollywood Regency
Hollywood Regency style is inspired by the glamour and opulence of Hollywood’s Golden Age. This style features bold patterns, bright colors, and eclectic decor elements. Hollywood Regency is all about creating a luxurious and over-the-top look with dramatic furnishings, such as mirrored coffee tables, velvet upholstery, and elegant lighting. Gold and metallic accents are key to this style, as well as geometric shapes, curves, and drama.
#9 Hollywood Regency
Hollywood Regency is a stylish and glamorous interior design style that was popular in the 1930s and 1940s, particularly in Hollywood. This style is characterized by its mix of elegant furnishings, metallic accents, and bold geometric patterns. Hollywood Regency interiors often feature bold and luxurious materials, such as velvet, silk, and satin, combined with bright metallic accents like gold, silver, and brass. The color palette typically includes black, white, and jewel tones and the lighting is often grand and dramatic, featuring chandeliers or table lamps with elegant shades.
#10 Rustic
Rustic interior design is inspired by the simplicity and natural beauty of the countryside. This style is characterized by its use of natural materials, such as wood, stone, and woven fabrics, and its focus on bringing the outdoors in. Rustic decor often features distressed finishes, warm earthy colors, and simple yet functional furnishings. Accents like taxidermy, antlers, and vintage tools can be used to add a touch of character and bring the rustic feel to life.
#11 Scandinavian
Scandinavian interior design is a style that originated in the Nordic countries of Europe. It is characterized by its minimalism, simplicity, and focus on functionality. Scandinavian interiors typically feature light, neutral colors, clean lines, and an emphasis on natural light. Furnishings are often made of natural materials, such as wood, and there is a strong emphasis on cozy, comfortable spaces. This style often features light-colored woods, like birch and pine, and simple yet beautiful design elements, like intricate wood carvings and traditional textiles.