The Basics Of Popular Design Styles

Three slides of different interior design rooms, the leftmost showing a neutral and white color palette design bedroom with a white bed spread and neutral color pillows, the middle image showing a navy blue couch with a wooden coffee table in front of it and a large window showing shrubbery outside behind it, and the image on the right showing a colorful living space with a neutral colored couch, a wooden cofee table, a patterned rug, two art pieces on the wall, and greenery and plant design accents.

The Basics Of Popular Design Styles

Before defining your design style, it’s essential to explore the most influential and timeless aesthetics. Whether you’re seeking inspiration or refining your vision, understanding the fundamentals of popular design styles can guide your creative journey.

Discover our curated guide to some of the most iconic and beloved design styles—each with its own distinct charm and character.

Minimalism

The focus of minimalism in interior design is simplicity. Creating a clean and organized space free of clutter and full of simplicity is the key. Through simple, monochromatic color palettes, limited decor and open floor plans, minimalism allows for a calming and functional space.

Scandinavian

Scandinavian design often aligns with minimalist design, but certain key elements make it uniquely its own. This style has more of a cozy, soft, and comforting focus. With elements such as rounded edges in furnishings, soft fabrics and plush pillows, and nature-inspired design elements, Scandinavian design achieves the ultimate clean, bright, and calming space. 

Industrial

In contrast from the light, bright, and calming design of minimalism and Scandinavian design, industrial styles focus on raw materials and unfinished design elements. Often inspired by the look of warehouses, old industrial buildings, and factories, this style incorporates brick, concrete, exposed beams, dark accent colors, and vintage industrial lighting to create a more urban-inspired design style.

Coastal

Inspired by the beach living we all yearn for, coastal design is the embodiment of a relaxed oceanside vacation. Attempting to bring the soothing energy of the beach into design, coastal design includes elements that reflect the ocean’s vibes. With soft color palettes and blues, natural materials such as linen and wood, and nautical accents like shells, this design style creates the perfect, relaxing, serene vibe.

Mid-Century Modern

Combining modern function with retro charm, mid-century modern design styles are a well loved choice in homes. Its timeless aesthetic and functionality makes it popular among families. The design elements including wooden and vintage furniture, retro colors, and simple and functional design craft the perfect blend of nostalgia and modern design.

Art Deco

Inspired by the architecture and design of the 1920s, the art deco design style is known for bold shapes, luxurious textures, and glamor. Through bold jewel tones, glossy or metallic elements, geometric patterns, and statement furniture, this design style is truly opulent.

Hollywood Regency

The golden age of Hollywood is known for its glamor and vibrancy. Creating drama through design, Hollywood regency style often includes bold colors including black, white, pinks, and greens, luxurious fabrics such as silks and velvet, mirrors and metallics, and ornate lighting. This design style truly represents the glitz and glamour of the time, bringing the luxury straight into your design space.

French Country

Merging the charm of rustic design with elegance, French country design will transport you to the fields of France. This design crafts a comforting atmosphere with floral prints, natural wood elements, antique furniture, and warm, earthy tones such as sage greens, terracotta, and dusty blues. Bring the soothing energy of the European countryside into your home with this impressive style.


No matter what design styles you love, it is always good to have an idea about what they entail. If you prefer bold, you may go for styles such as art deco or Hollywood regency. Prefer a calming space? Consider the French country style, minimalism, or Scandinavian design. Whichever style you choose to create, what matters is that it works for you!

Further Reading