What Is My Interior Design Style?

Aesthetic Rooms

Ever wondered why you're drawn to certain design aesthetics while others leave you cold? It's likely because you have a specific interior design style that resonates with your personality and preferences. The first step in creating a home that feels authentically you is identifying your interior design style. With so many options to choose from—including modern, bohemian, farmhouse and etc—it can be overwhelming to pinpoint your aesthetic. In this guide, we’ll explore different interior design styles and provide practical tips to help you discover your unique taste.

Why Knowing Your Interior Design Style Matters

• By knowing what you like, you avoid purchasing items that don’t fit your aesthetic which means you'll save money and time looking for home decor. 
• When you have a defined style, it becomes easier to curate furniture, decor and colours that complement each other.
• Your home is a reflection of your personality. Knowing your style allows you to express yourself more authentically.

How to Determine Your Interior Design Style

• One of the quickest way to determine your style is to use this interior design style quiz. It is a good starting point and will help you narrow down your preferences.
• Browse interior design magazines, websites, Pinterest and Instagram to gather inspiration. Create a mood board or a digital collection of images that resonate with you. Look for patterns—do you lean towards clean lines and neutral tones or are you drawn to bold colours and eclectic patterns?
• Consider your lifestyle, think about how you live and what makes you comfortable. If you have kids or pets, you may want a more practical style like Scandinavian or farmhouse. If you enjoy entertaining, a modern or traditional style might suit you better.
• Take a look at your current space and identify the elements you love and those you don’t. This can help you determine what you’re naturally drawn to and what you want to avoid.
• Don’t be afraid to mix styles! You don’t have to stick to one specific style—sometimes combining elements from different styles creates a unique and personalised look. For example, you can blend bohemian and Scandinavian for a cosy, eclectic vibe.
• Begin with a small area, like a reading nook or an entryway, to experiment with different styles. This will allow you to test your preferences before committing to a larger space.
• Sometimes, an outside perspective can be helpful. Ask friends or family what they think your design style is.

Popular Interior Design Styles

Let’s dive into some of the most popular interior design styles to help you get started:

Modern

Characteristics: Clean lines, neutral colours, minimalism and a focus on function.

Details: Modern design emphasises simplicity, open spaces and a clutter-free environment. Think sleek furniture, glass, metal accents and a neutral colour palette with occasional bold accents.

Who is it for: Those who love sleek, functional spaces with a minimalist touch

Bohemian (Boho)

Characteristics: Eclectic, vibrant and filled with patterns and textures.

Details: Bohemian style is all about personal expression. It combines different cultures, bright colours, vintage furniture and an array of textures like woven rugs, macrame and plants.

Who It’s For: Creative spirits who love to mix and match and aren't afraid of bold colours and patterns.

Farmhouse

Characteristics: Cosy, rustic and warm with vintage elements.

Details: Inspired by country living, farmhouse style often includes distressed wood, vintage accessories, white and cream tones and cosy textiles like linen and cotton.

Who is it for: Those who appreciate a warm, welcoming and lived in feel.

Industrial

Characteristics: Raw, edgy and rugged.

Details: Inspired by urban lofts and factories, industrial design incorporates raw materials like brick, metal and reclaimed wood. Exposed pipes, large windows and open spaces define this style.

Who is it for: Fans of urban living and those who appreciate a masculine, unfinished aesthetic.

Scandinavian

Characteristics: Minimalistic, functional and cosy.

Details: This style focuses on simplicity, functionality and comfort. It often uses light wood, neutral colours and clean lines with a touch of hygge—a Danish concept of cosiness and contentment.

Who is it for: Minimalists who value functionality and comfort without sacrificing style.

Mid-Century Modern

Characteristics: Retro, functional and organic shapes.

Details: Originating in the 1950s and 1960s, this style includes clean lines, organic forms and vibrant colours. Iconic furniture pieces, such as the Eames lounge chair, are staples of this design style.

Who is it for: Fans of vintage, retro styles with a contemporary twist.

Traditional

Characteristics: Classic, elegant and symmetrical.

Details: Traditional style is rooted in European decor, featuring dark wood, ornate details, plush furnishings and classic patterns like florals and damask.

Who is it for: Those who appreciate timeless elegance and comfort.

Coastal

Characteristics: Light, airy and relaxed.

Details: Inspired by the beach, coastal design incorporates light blues, whites, natural textures and plenty of natural light. It often features elements like driftwood, rattan and nautical decor.

Who is it for: Anyone who loves the beach and wants to bring that relaxing vibe home.

Bringing Your Style to Life

Once you've identified your style (or styles), it's time to bring it to life. Here are a few steps to help you create a cohesive look:

• Pick colours that reflect your style. Modern styles may lean towards monochromatic palettes, while boho styles embrace a wide range of colours.

•  Invest in a few statement pieces (pendant lighting, rug or sofa) that anchor your room and set the tone for the rest of the space.

• Textiles like rugs, cushions and throws are an excellent way to add depth and personality.

• Include personal items like photographs, art or unique decor pieces that reflect your story and personality.

Finding your interior design style is an exciting journey of self-discovery. Remember that your home should be a reflection of you—a home where you feel happy, comfortable and inspired. Whether you lean towards sleek modernism, cosy farmhouse or vibrant boho, the most important thing is that it feels right for you.

So, take your time exploring, experimenting, and most importantly, have fun with it!

Next read: Colour Scheme Ideas

Happy Decorating x