One of the question I get asked most often is 'What are the differences between all the Interior Design Styles?' With a huge variety of Interior Design Styles it comes as no surprise that people are getting themselves into a frenzy trying to get their heads around it all. I often find myself explaining the styles so I thought I'd put together a little blog post explaining all the popular Interior Design styles. It's all part of a mini series I'm putting together, and I'll go into further detail about these styles on a later date.

Designers and brands love to reference different Interior Design styles when describing projects and products. We can't help it, it's the best way to describe our vision and what we are imagining. Design styles are seen as a language, a medium to express personality and personal taste. To understand Interior Design and decide on what look and vibe best suits your needs, you need to understand the design styles.

S C A N D I N A V I A N

A hugely popular Interior Design style inspired by the Scandinavian and Nordic countries. The colour pallette takes inspiration from the snow, mountains and fjords. A timeless style which works perfectly in all spaces and areas.

M I N I M A L I S T

One of the major Interior Design styles of today which is still relatively young as it started in the early 21th century. Takes inspiration from the simplicity of Japanese design and is usually seen merging with the Scandinavian style. Interiors are stripped down to their bare essentials allowing the space left behind to make a statement. Colour pallets are typically monochromatic, with grey, black and white featuring heavily.

E C L E C T I C

This Interior Design style takes inspiration from a huge range of different design styles and periods. This particular style has no rules, have fun and push the boundaries of creativity. No two eclectic spaces are ever the same. Blend the old with the new, dark and bright, solid colour and pattern.

I N D U S T R I A L

Takes inspiration from the Industrial Revolution. This gritty Interior Design style is unrefined and raw. Concrete, steel, bricks, brass and wood are some of the base materials of this design style. All tied together with statement lighting and bold colours. Brick red, black, grey, brown and navy are typically used in the industrial colour palette.

M I D - C E N T U R Y M O D E R N

This Interior Design style has proven to be very popular in the recent years. Taking inspiration from post World War 2 America, this 50's/60's design style is rather masculine with clean simple lines, practical furniture made of wood and metal and rich colour palette. More popular in urban and city spaces.

C O N T E M P O R A R Y

The chameleon of Interior Design styles. It's ever changing, taking inspiration from past and present design styles. As it's always evolving, there's no one way to describe this design style, making it slightly difficult to pull off. Contemporary interiors today feature modern clean lines, metal and glass, and brave use of colour.

V I N T A G E

Often classed as old fashioned, Vintage Interior Design style is far from old and is incredibly versatile. Taking inspiration from major design styles of the past, vintage can jaw droppingly opulent and sophisticated, delicate and charming, or retro and edgy.

M O D E R N

A very niche Interior Design Style, which is seemingly more popular in media and art as opposed to real life. Beautiful to look at but very actually few incorporate this design style in homes. At the cutting edge of design and technology with clean lines and basic shapes. It's streamlined and perfect for open plan spaces but can lack warmth and personality.

T R A D I T I O N A L

A mix of classical European Interior Design styles. Taking inspiration from the Renaissance, Ancient Greek and Roman, Medieval, Gothic, Romantic and Art Nouveau periods. Each era comes with a specific set of rules and usually includes intricate detailing, wood carvings, plaster mouldings, silk and velvet, heavy furniture and statement art work.

U R B A N

Brings the urban outdoors inside and takes inspiration from cities and fast living. Experiments with new and unusual materials and usually has an eclectic and modern vibe to it. Urban design places emphasis on structural and architectural elements and often favours open spaces.

R U S T I C

Takes inspiration from the natural world. Typically makes use of raw and unrefined materials such as wood and stone. Places emphasis on wooden beams, vaulted ceilings and wooden floors. Naturals textures and fibres always feature heavily alongside a neutral colour palette. Plants are used as statement features.

C O U N T R Y

A much loved Interior Design style. Exudes a sense of warmth and cosiness, perfect for a home. Includes beautifully timeless elements, such as organic materials, wood, pottery, floral prints and patterns, embroidery, and warm summery colours.

C O A S T A L

Also known as the Nautical Interior Design Style, this takes inspiration from coastal fronts, oceans, beaches and the art of sea faring. Coastal style has a fresh, clean and organic vibe, with a predominantly white and blue colour palette. Design elements include stripes, anchors, stone, seashells, ropes driftwood and linen.

T R A N S I T I O N A L

A slightly difficult Interior Design style to get right, but one that is rising in popularity. It is a fusion and transition of the traditional and contemporary design styles. Typically features solid furniture of the traditional style contrasted with little ornamentation and clean and straight lines.

Z E N

This Interior Design Style is based on the core principles of traditional Japanese philosophy of life. Zen interiors are associated with relaxation and meditation and are all about balance and harmony. Every single aspect of this design style is thought out meticulously. Makes use of organic materials such as wood, bamboo and natural fibres.

B O H E M I A N

An Interior Design style for the free spirited individuals who reflect the philosophy of living freely and in one with nature. It is a unique and bold design style which is immensely popular with the younger generations. A vivid mish mash of colours, patterns and furniture. Typically a very busy design style full of plants, flowers and organic materials.

A R T D E C O

This design style is still a player in the world of Interior Design. It is a bold exploration of symmetry and shape, with geometry being a focal point. Primary colours make up a typical Art Deco colour palette alongside black and white. Shiny chrome is the metal of choice with glossy paints and mirrored surfaces.

S U S T A I N A B L E

A relatively new Interior Design trend based around a conscious and sustainable outlook on life. It takes into consideration the impact fast consumerism has on our environment and carbon footprint. Typically this design style incorporates little to none synthetic and plastic materials. It champions local artisans and craftsmanship and focuses on local natural materials.