7 Different Interior Styles – What’s Yours?

By Amy Kilvington

Content Writer at Blinds Direct

Fri 9 Feb 2018

Last updated Tue 21 Jun 2022

There are so many different interior styles in the world, it’s near impossible to mention them all. But we wanted to give it our best shot. So we’ve narrowed things down to seven of the most popular styles, explaining key features, colour palettes and textures, along with special elements to incorporate for an authentic chic approach. Want to freshen up your space but unsure which style to go for? Read on to find out more.

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1. Industrial Chic

Industrial interiors are all about edgy, unrefined style. Rather than covering up the structural elements of your home or disguising ‘ugly’ raw materials, industrial design embraces grittiness and transforms functional aspects into fashionable interior design features.

Industrial chic is inherently unfinished, but it just seems to make sense. Consider concrete, stripped back flooring, beams and exposed brickwork.

If you need inspiration, think about items that are a natural fit with an old mill or factory, like wooden palettes, metal sconce lights and vintage clocks. When it comes to materials, try timber, brass, steel and stone. Don’t worry too much about coordination; the beauty of industrial interiors is that their effortless and raw cohesion.

Of course, your industrial chic interior will need softening up in order to be comfortable. Bring some warmth and texture with rugs, cushions and throws, along with a stylish window dressing.

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2. Scandi Fusion

We’ve seen Scandinavian interior design soar in popularity over recent years. The distinctive approach can be tweaked in a number of ways to achieve your desired Scandi fusion look, including an injection of Japanese with light hues and indoor plants, or combined with bright tones and graphic shapes for a more playful twist.

Whichever style your prefer in your home, the basic principles of Scandinavian design stays the same: high quality and effortless interiors that will last for the long run, both in terms of durability and their timeless appeal. This makes this style extremely good value for money.

Achieve your Scandi fusion space by balancing functionality with aesthetics, opting for pieces that are highly practical whilst offering understated elegance.

Clean lines and natural materials are a must, and you can brighten things up with your choice of colours and prints when selecting soft furnishings.

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3. Modern Minimalism

Minimalism began in the early twentieth century. Built around the idea that ‘less is more’, this interior style concentrates on simplicity and the essentials.

Clean, clutter-free spaces (ideally open-plan) are the canvas, punctuated only by vital pieces of furniture and storage solutions, with colours, patterns and textures used sparingly and intelligently.

The modern approach to minimalism is slightly more relaxed, though the original principle remains. Achieve your simple, contemporary space with natural light, multi-functional furniture and a minimal neutral colour palette. Consider earthy or stony shades of sand, khaki, white and grey, incorporating pops of colour like peach, mustard and green for a little added excitement.

Keep surfaces clear and limit your accessories to two or three statement pieces, ideally in sleek, unfussy materials. Glass works well, along with natural stones for a more laid back feeling.

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4. Maximum Impact

Maximalism can be difficult to get right, but when executed correctly, it’s an interior style that is guaranteed to turn heads and bring you joy every time you step into the room.

Create your luxurious and eclectic room by beginning with a simple canvas. Stick to neutral flooring and walls, the perfect base for dressing up to the max.

You can then bring excitement to the space with oversized lampshades, cabinets crammed full of trinkets and layered up window treatments.

Forget your old ideas about a strict colour palette; instead, layer different tones in various textures for a truly interesting effect. While maximalism is risky, you can maintain balance by blending an even mix of old and new, bright and muted, curved and linear.

The most impactful maximalist spaces offer a cohesive combination of these contrasts, bringing balance and calm to a room, even if it’s full to the brim!

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5. The Traditionalist

One of the most popular styles in interior design is the traditional look. While this is open to interpretation, the general rules for a traditional home include classic pieces of furniture, heavy fabrics and dark wood, although lighter tones and texture can also work well, especially if you prefer soft blue, cream and duck egg colour schemes.

Traditional design focuses on quality over quantity, so focus on investment pieces that’ll stand the test of time. High quality fabrics should be selected over synthetic blends, so consider leather, silk and cotton.

When it comes to pattern, choose quintessentially English designs, like stripes, florals and paisleys. Bring a sense of opulence to the space with investment pieces like fine china or a chandelier.

Don’t forget to maintain symmetry throughout; a key part of traditional interiors is uniformity, from the artwork on the wall to the cushions on your sofa.

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6. Retro Vibes

Retro interior design allows you to dig around in the different styles of eras gone by, selecting and combining as you wish.

It’s a fun approach to decorating, allowing you the freedom to design a space specific to your personality and lifestyle, whilst channelling the charm and creativity of the mid-century.

If you want to create a space filled with retro vibes, think about the era or eras that best appeal to you. Pinpoint the aspects that you’d like to include in your home, such as a classic piece of furniture, some bold wallpaper, or window treatments with colourful prints.

Mix and match these ideas in a way that works for you and your home. For instance, checks and pastels are the perfect choice for 1950s fashion, whilst wood panelling and geometrics in orange, brown and yellow offer ’70s flavour.

You could also combine your retro features with modern design, creating a unique space that spans the centuries.

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7. Country Chic

Though they draw inspiration from quaint cottages in rural settings, country chic interiors work brilliantly in a number of settings, including the contemporary home.

An interior design theme with a countryside twist is the perfect way to bring warmth and femininity to your space. Whether you prefer an authentic English style with pastel tones and chintz, or an elegant French approach with whitewashed wood and lace, country chic can be achieved easily.

Draw on the iconic elements of countryside style, including pale tones, light fabrics and rustic accents, set upon a clean and simple backdrop.

Consider mixing up patterns for an interesting layered effect, like polkadots paired with paisley, or botanical prints alongside checks.

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Are you looking for more interior design inspiration? Be sure to explore our full range of window blinds, curtains and home accessories. You can also take advantage of our FREE Personal Shopping Service by contacting our experts directly: [email protected] or 01924 848739  (8:30-4:30 MON-FRI)

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