Have you ever been in a thoughtfully decorated home and felt an instant connection? A well-designed space can reflect the owner's personality and create a comfortable atmosphere. But finding your unique home decor style can be a challenging task. That's why I've created this step-by-step guide to help you define your decor theme while adding your creative touch.
A Brief Roundup of Popular Interior Design Styles
To get your creative juices flowing, let's start with a quick rundown of some popular interior design styles:
Minimalist
Minimalism emphasizes functional pieces and intentionally owning fewer things. It utilizes monochromatic colors with a pop of interest and highlights architectural features or unique decor pieces. The use of tall furniture legs and minimal rugs creates an airy and uncluttered feel.
Mid-Century Modern
Celebrating the aesthetic popular in the 1940s, mid-century modern combines clean lines, comfortable materials like wood and leather, expressive patterns, and tactile textures. You can find retro pieces or affordable replicas to bring this classic style into your space.
Industrial
The industrial style highlights exposed beams, aged brick, and metals like copper, brass, and iron. It balances roughness with textures like jute, linen, worn leather, and warm wood. Iron pipe furniture is an excellent way to introduce an industrial element to any space.
Modern Farmhouse
This style combines the traditional farmhouse aesthetic with modern lines and a clean feel. It emphasizes homemade handiworks, natural lighting, and soft neutral color palettes. Shiplap panels and painted brick walls contribute to the overall look.
Bohemian
Bohemian style is a mix of eclectic textures, colors, and patterns inspired by global art. It creates a cozy and layered look with space for showcasing mementos from your travels. You can find affordable boho-inspired pieces that won't break the bank.
Jungalow
The jungalow style combines boho vibes with vibrant colors, tribal and modern prints, and plenty of houseplants. It creates a green-infused aesthetic that maximizes natural lighting and celebrates nature. Justina Blakeney is a prominent figure in the jungalow style for inspiration.
Scandinavian
Scandinavian design emphasizes function, clean lines, and a soft neutral color palette. It incorporates elements from the natural world, such as wood and stone. IKEA is a great place to find Scandinavian-inspired decor, or you can explore other Scandi-focused stores for higher-quality pieces.
Hygge
Hygge takes the minimalist and clean vibes of Scandinavian style and adds cozy touches like plush faux lambskins, chunky knit blankets, candles, and rough-hewn and whitewashed wood. It embraces imperfections and creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Japandi
Japandi is a fusion of Scandinavian style and Japanese wabi-sabi. It combines minimalist aesthetics, natural elements, and warm neutral colors. The wabi-sabi element encourages embracing imperfections and adding personality to a room.
Bauhaus style
The German Bauhaus style blends functional and beautiful furniture that can be mass-produced. Look for classic examples like Wassily chairs, nesting tables, and Walter Gropius's armchair.
Gender-Neutral
For couples with different preferences, finding a balance is essential. Incorporate both masculine and feminine touches into your decor without excluding anyone. Think neutral colors, prints, and clever compromises that cater to both parties' preferences.
But, Which Style to Choose?
You don't have to limit yourself to one style. Mix and match elements that you like to define your perfect style. Here's how:
Step 1: Gather Examples
Save images of home decor styles that you love. Use platforms like Pinterest, Google Drive, or Instagram to collect inspiring photos. Don't limit yourself to just one style; save everything that catches your eye.
Step 2: Define Your Unique Style
After gathering a collection of images, review them and look for patterns. Identify common elements or themes that resonate with you. Write down your observations and draw a circle around them. Congratulations, that's your unique style!
Name It and Claim It
Give your style a name that captures its essence. This name will guide you as you select elements for your room. For example, if your style is "Neutral-Toned Wabi-Sabi Farmhouse," you'll know which pieces align with your aesthetic and which ones don't.
Try Before You Commit
If you're unsure about your chosen style, try it out in a small space first. Decorate a reading corner or a bedside table with your desired style and live with it for a week or two. If you still love it, you're ready to decorate the rest of the room. If not, go back to Step 1 and explore new options.
Share Your Style
Have you defined your decor style? Share it with us in the comments section below!
Dive Deeper:
- How to paint an accent wall
- 10 Quick & Easy Apartment Decorating Tips
- The Modern Man's Guide To Decorating With Color And Texture
- Turn Your Souvenirs Into Home Decor
Images:
Caption: Sundby furniture by Nordic House
Caption: Bedroom Redo: A Breakdown Analysis
Caption: Recreate This Room: This Primer Reader's Drool-Worthy Living Room is Inspiring and Shoppable
Now that you have a clear understanding of various interior design styles and how to find your unique decor theme, have fun exploring and creating your dream home!
