Modern, industrial, shabby chic….and the list goes on. A significant challenge many of our clients face is a lack of understanding or vocabulary to describe and define their personal interior design style. With an abundance of unique design styles, it can be daunting to decipher which style will work best for you. Some also enjoy combining elements of several styles to create their ideal look.
interior designers in chennai
A great starting point for an interior design project is to learn a bit about each of the styles and how they differ from one another.
1. MODERN
Modern is a broad design term that typically refers to a home with clean, crisp lines, a simple colour palette and the use of materials that can include metal, glass and steel.
Modern design employs a sense of simplicity in every element, including furniture. A word that’s commonly used to describe modern style is sleek, and there is not a lot of clutter or accessories involved with a modern style.
2.
CONTEMPORARY
Modern and contemporary are
two styles frequently used interchangeably. Contemporary is different from
modern because it describes design based on the here and now.
The primary difference
separating modern and contemporary design style is that modern is a strict
interpretation of design that started in the 20th century. Contemporary on the
other hand, is more fluid and can represent a sense of currency with less
adherence to one particular style. For example, contemporary style may include
curving lines, whereas modern design does not. You can refer to modern vs
contemporary article for more information.
3.
MINIMALIST
The minimalist concept is one
that’s popular here in Australia. It takes notions of modern design and
simplifies them further.
Colour palettes are neutral
and airy; furnishings are simple and streamlined, and nothing is excessive or
flamboyant in accessories or décor.
Minimalism is ultimately
defined by a sense of functionality and ultra-clean lines.
4.
INDUSTRIAL
Industrial style as the
name implies, draws inspiration from a warehouse or an urban loft.
There’s a sense of
unfinished rawness in many of the elements, and it’s not uncommon to see
exposed brick, ductwork and wood. An iconic home with an industrial design
theme would be a renovated loft from a former industrial building.
Think high ceilings, old
timber and dangling metal light fixtures with sparse functional furniture.
There may possibly be one or two pieces of abstract art or photography to add a
dash of colour to an otherwise neutral colour scheme derived from the primary
materials of wood and metals.
5.
MID-CENTURY MODERN
Mid-century modern is a
throwback to the design style of the mid-1900s—primarily the 1950s and 60s.
There’s a retro nostalgia present in Mid-Century Modern Design, and also some
elements of minimalism. Functionality or “fussy-free” was the main theme for
Mid-century design. It emphasis on pared-down forms, natural or organic shapes
such as “egg-shaped” chair, easy-to-use contemporary designs and simple
fabrications. It easily complements any interior and also helps with seamless
transition from interior to exterior.
6.
SCANDINAVIAN
Scandanavian design pays
homage to the simplicity of life demonstrated in Nordic countries. Scandinavian
furniture design often feels like a work of art, although it is simple and
understated. There’s functionality in the furniture along with some interesting
lines, many of which have a sculptural influence.
Other common
characteristics include all-white colour palettes and the incorporation of
natural elements like form-pressed wood, bright plastics, and enameled
aluminum, steel and wide plank flooring. If there are pops of colour it often
comes from the use of art, natural fibre throws or furs, or a single piece of
furniture.
Spacious, natural lighting,
less accessories and functional furniture characterizes Scandinavian designs.
7.
TRADITIONAL
Traditional design style
offers classic details, sumptuous furnishings, and an abundance of accessories.
It is rooted in European sensibilities.
Traditional homes often
feature dark, finished wood, rich colour palettes, and a variety of textures
and curved lines. Furnishings have elaborate and ornate details and fabrics,
like velvet, silk and brocade, which may include a variety of patterns and
textures.
There’s depth, layering and
dimensionality within most traditional designs.
8.
TRANSITIONAL
Transitional is a very
popular style because it borrows from both traditional and modern design to
facilitate a space that’s not “too much,” in terms of one style or another.
There’s a sense of balance that’s appealing and unexpected.
A transitional design may
incorporate modern materials, such as steel and glass, and then unite them with
plush furnishings.
Transitional design also
includes relatively neutral colour palettes, creating a calming and relaxed
space that manages to feel both stylish and sleek, as well as warm and
inviting.
9.
FRENCH COUNTRY
Warm, earthy colours are
indicative of a French Country design style, as are worn and ornamental wooden
furnishing. The style has an overarching farmhouse inspiration.
French Country design may
include soft and warm tones of red, yellow or gold and natural materials like
stone and brick. French Country design can include collections of ornate
porcelain dishes and heavy linens and bed coverings.
10.
BOHEMIAN
Bohemian is a popular style
for home design and fashion. It reflects a carefree lifestyle with little
rules, except to follow your hearts desire.
Bohemian homes may include
vintage furniture and light fixtures, globally inspired textiles and rugs,
displays of collections, and items found in widely varied sources including
flea markets and during one’s travels.
It’s not uncommon to spot
floor pillows and comfortable seating spaces when incorporating the bohemian
style. This eclectic style can incorporate an ultra-glam chandelier paired with
a well-worn rug and a mid-century chair. Within the Bohemian style, there’s a
laissez-faire attitude where anything goes as long as you love it.
11.
RUSTIC
Rustic design is drawn from
natural inspiration, using raw and often unfinished elements including wood and
stone.
Rustic design may
incorporate accessories from the outdoors with warmth emulating from the design
and architectural details that may include features like vaulted ceilings
adorned with wood beams or reclaimed wood floors.
Many designs now integrate
rustic design with more modern furnishings and accessories.
12.
SHABBY CHIC
Shabby chic is
vintage-inspired style, but compared to Bohemian and other styles, tends to be
more feminine, soft and delicate.
Shabby chic furnishings are
often either distressed or appear that way; paint tends to have antique-style
finishes. The Shabby Chic colour palettes include white, cream and pastels.
Light light fixture and wall hangings may be ornate and continue the feminine
vibe of shabby chic design.
13.
HOLLYWOOD GLAM
Also referred to as
Hollywood Regency, Hollywood Glam is a design style that tends to be luxurious,
over-the-top and opulent. It’s a dramatic design style, perfect for a homeowner
who enjoys making a statement.
This design style can
incorporate some features of Victorian design, including plush, velvet
furnishings, tufting and antiques. The colour palettes are particularly
bold—think purples, reds and turquoise.
14.
COASTAL/HAMPTONS
Coastal style also dubbed
Hamptons style, hails from the iconic U.S. beachside area. Common features
include light, airy colour palettes with cool neutral shades paired with blues
and greens. Furnishings are often white or beige. The room can contain elements
of wood and accessories are often inspired by the sea.
Blue and white striped
patterns for pillows, large windows, white plush sofas, and painted white wood
are also common fixtures of the classic Coastal/Hampton style.
The intention is to create
a relaxed and comfortable environment that is inspired by the beach and ocean.
A rudimentary understanding of design fundamentals and styles
can be a great help in solidifying your personal design ideals. The ability to
identify different interior design styles will help you conjure up
inspirational visions of your future home and provide a framework to build your
personal aesthetic. With a vocabulary to express your inspired vision, magic
happens!
