Are you designing or redecorating your home and have no clue where to start? Well, you're in luck because we're here to help! First things first, we'll need to identify your design style before you even step foot inside a paint shop or furniture store. Okay, maybe that's a bit dramatic, but before we determine what your unique style is, let's define some of the more popular ones to help us narrow down our options and get inspired.
Transitional
Transitional design is pretty much contemporary and traditional wrapped up in one comfortable, streamlined box. You get the best of both worlds! It's a medley of the warmth taken from traditional design with the cleaner lines and metallic finishes from it's counterpart. There is an emphasis on basic shapes and usually the go to color here is Beige. It's a fresh new take on your classic style, but with a modern twist.
Industrial Modern
This style is the raw "unfinished" look that you basically find at every Starbucks location. Often times used in loft apartments, modern homes, or commercial spaces. A lot of exposed brick with steel and wood elements are used here and the features you would normally like to conceal are on fabulous display. You get that chic warehouse/factory look with a functional approach.
Coastal
If you love going to the beach then you'll love this next style. It will transport you to a bright and breezy seaside escape. Inspired by the ocean, this design reflects the spirit of Summer and being away on holiday. An airy and relaxed atmosphere is achieved with a neutral color palette dusted with shades of blue. Nautical elements along with some beachy motifs are sprinkled around to remind you of the sun, sand, and surf.
Mid-Century Modern
Mid-Century Modern has that fresh minimalistic approach to design that we just love. It's the style that we find the most popular and complimentary to other designs. Simple and functional shapes with elegant lines and contemporary patterns are key.
Eclectic
This approach is more thoughtfully designed then one might think. It is blend of different elements with enough common ground, so it doesn't look like a complete disaster. Layered textiles and a whole lot of contrast with mix-and-match items define this style. It is one of the harder ones to achieve since you are a throw pillow away from creating chaos, but it sure is one of our favorite.
Scandinavian
A lot of you might think IKEA, but there is more to this design style then just a furniture store. It's best characterized by its simplicity and utilitarian lifestyle. It's a breakaway from the modernism movement with a very minimalistic look. It centers on a black and white aesthetic with plenty of natural wood and bright colors for accents. A Scandinavian interior is usually very light and fresh.
Shabby Chic
Here is where we don't mind the look of some wear and tear! This cottage inspired style is the charmer in the bunch. Some distinctive features include muted colors, antique pieces, painted furniture with a traditional flair, and weathered wood. Just think Flea Market finds, which can make this style the most budget-friendly.
Modern
Simple, clean, uncluttered. You'll notice an absence of decoration with the use of geometric shapes, clean lines, and asymmetry. Frequented by neutrals with pops of bold color, modern interiors are the most spacious with emphasis on industrial materials such as concrete and glass. It's safe to say this style doesn't fall under the family friendly category.
By no means should you only stick to a single design style, but it's nice to get a sense of where you fit in. As designers, we like to mesh up different elements from each and make up our own style. For example, we've been known to blend transitional with shabby chic, which gives you transitional chic! Ha! As you were scrolling down, did you notice one you gravitated towards more? It's hard to pinpoint, but take note of what you like, find a common thread, and just have fun!
