Do you need inspiration for you home? If the answer is yes, here you can find some of the most popular interior design styles, which could be the theme for your next project. Whether you’re looking to update a room of your choice or transform your entire home, these are some classic styles that both look great and can be easily achieved.
Industrial
This is often an option preferred by those with large open spaces, such as a loft apartment, and incorporates simple design with carefully selected bold furniture and items. The aim is often to create an unfinished look, achieved with a combination of raw and rough surfaces, which complement the clean and polished elements of the room. It is often a minimalistic style, so storage should be well-thought-out to maintain a tidy appearance.
Colours are kept warm and neutral, with grey and white popular colours used by fans of industrial interior design. Key pieces in the room should be made from materials such as steel, metal or wood that look as though they have been salvaged or recycled. Vintage pendant lighting is a great example of this.
Victorian
As the name suggests, the Victorian style takes its inspiration from the era dating 1837-1901, when Britain was reigned by Queen Victoria. It is a highly decorative and classic look, with plenty of detailing and a luxury feel. Extravagant furniture such as quilted sofas and rich wooden cabinets are all fine examples of ways to make a room look Victorian, with gold ornaments giving an edge of indulgence also.
High ceilings and original cornicing and coving are all features associated with Victorian interior design, and those lucky enough to have these features in a room should make sure to highlight these. Colour schemes are often dark, with burgundy, plum, ruby, emerald and navy all choices which would work well, with the addition of floral patterned wallpaper reflecting the period further.
Scandanavian
The Scandinavian design concept comes from creating a bright space in order to combat the long, dark winters experienced in Sweden. Modern, clean and crisp, it’s a great option for smaller lived-in spaces, and can be achieved on a budget with the help of stores such as IKEA. Elements of shabby chic which match the colour scheme can also be incorporated, and wooden floorboards can be a nice added touch.
The Scandinavian colour palette is a mix of white, off whites, soft greys and smooth tones of nature. Those who would like to inject a bit of colour can also do so with pastels, which can also add a softness to the room. Inspirational artwork is also a great way to put an individual stamp on the room, although it should be contemporary in order to be fitting with the rest of the décor.
Retro
The 60s and 70s were colourful decades, which have been reflected in retro interior design. Music such as disco was a large influence during this time, and the hippy movement of freedom and self-expression had an impact too. This was demonstrated through interior design with bold colours and clashing prints, as well as statement tubular or chrome furniture.
With the colour scheme, think ethnic, such as Morocco and India. Choose shades such as avocado green, sand, brown, mustard, burnt orange and wine. Those seeking a retro style will want to incorporate lots of patterns, whether that’s by adding wallpaper, or using mix and match fabrics. Funky scatter cushions and kitsch ornaments will also add character, although these should be kept to a minimum to ensure that you don’t overdo it.
Gothic
This post-medieval style was popular in the Middle Ages and has since been incorporated into many homes today, adding a sense of drama. Gothic interior design can be recognised by dark moody tones and ornate architecture, often inspired by historic cathedrals and churches. Lighting can be used in clever ways to add elegance and drama, with candles making the perfect accessory to add to the room.
In order to recreate this style, you will need to draw on elements from the past, for example lancet windows and wrought-iron chandeliers. While black is the key tone for a Gothic room, it is possible to bring in bright colours such as an item of pink statement furniture which has intricate detailing to remain in keeping with the style.
Nautical
The nautical trend is not only found in houses located near the coast, but is also prevalent in the middle of cities, which shows just how adaptable the theme has become. This interior style provides the opportunity to create a calming and serene atmosphere, drawing inspiration from the sea and the ships which sail on it. Common features of a nautical room will include whitewashed timber, driftwood and rope detailing.
Light and airy colours such as white, aqua, navy and pastel blues all work well with a nautical theme, with striped material adding to the coastal chic. Shabby chic furniture often fits in well, opening up possibilities for upcycling existing cabinets with gold or wooden door knobs. Feature pieces are also often well-placed within coastal themed rooms, with items such as a ship’s steering wheel or a giant anchor making great focal points. What’s more, many of the decorative bits and pieces you could display can be simply found on the beach, which are both unique and cost-free!
Image Credit: Mini OzzY (Flickr.com)