10 of Today’s Most Popular Interior Design Styles
The interior design world continues to evolve, and it can be difficult to navigate the plethora of styles out there. That’s why we’ll be looking at 10 of the most popular interior design styles today, providing details to inform and inspire you. As you read, take note of the ideas you love most and use them when designing your own home!
Contemporary
Contemporary design was born in the 1970s, but it’s not tied to any specific time period or style. Rather, it reflects the trends of the day and pulls elements from other popular design styles. Today, contemporary design is sleek and simple. Open layouts combined with neutral color palettes give spaces a light and airy feel. Metal, glass, and textured fabrics are all popular materials when it comes to décor.
Modern
While often conflated with contemporary design because of its similar name, modern design is rooted in the early to mid-1900s. It focuses on simplicity, with form following function. Colors tend toward natural and neutral, with white walls, wooden accents, and earthy tones dominating. Small splashes of color in art and furniture are not uncommon, however. Overall, modern design aims to create a warm and cozy space with a touch of luxury.
Traditional
Inspired by 18th and 19th century England and France, traditional design leans into a classic, ornate feel. Neutral color palettes are punctuated by brightly colored décor. Dark wood furniture and textiles such as silk, velvet, and linen are used to add drama. Eye-catching furnishings, including damask patterns, crystal chandeliers, and wall tapestries, further enhance the glamorous feel.
Transitional
Transitional design combines the best of traditional and modern styles, which makes it one of the most popular interior design styles today. You may find cozy, modern furniture paired with ornate rugs or classical art in a transitional home. By borrowing elements from these two time periods, transitional design creates a space that feels timeless. It pays homage to the past without sacrificing the comfort and simplicity of modern design.
Mid-Century Modern
Rising to popularity in the 1950s and ‘60s, mid-century modern design has stood the test of time. With a simple, functional style, it feels organic, welcoming, and optimistic. It makes fantastic use of rich woods for flooring and furniture. Warm colors such as mustard yellow, olive green, brown, and orange create an inviting glow. Midcentury modern homes also emphasize a connection to nature, with sliding doors and picture windows breaking down the barrier between indoors and outdoors.
Modern Farmhouse
If you’re yearning for a more rustic atmosphere in your home, modern farmhouse may be for you. This style is defined by nature-inspired simplicity and natural materials. Raw wood, greenery, and mixed metals take the spotlight here, adding just the right amount of rustic charm into your modern space. Shiplap, plank floors, and barn doors create a relaxed, organic feel. Colors palettes focus on neutral colors with natural highlights of navy, green, and orange.
Minimalist
Inspired by Japanese design, minimalism maintains that less is more. It emphasizes reducing clutter and consumption, helping people focus on what matters most in their space and in their life. Color schemes are mostly neutral, but primary colors can be used for accents. Minimalist spaces prioritize function, with simple furniture and efficient storage space.
Bohemian
In contrast with many of the simple, minimal styles popular today, bohemian design uses layers of patterns and colors to create an eclectic look. Also known as boho, spaces decorated in this style are free-spirited, exotic, and playful. You’ll find many bright colors and décor from a variety of sources. Natural elements such as cane, rattan, and bamboo are also common. Untethered by strict rules, boho allows you to create a unique space that truly reflects your personality.
Scandinavian
This Nordic-inspired style is easily recognized by its light, airy, and organic atmosphere. With a deep appreciation for nature, Scandinavian design uses materials such as wood and rattan in addition to cotton and linen to create spaces that feel warm and relaxed. Soft, simple colors such as white, cream, tan, and beige add to the laid-back, comfortable feeling. Scandinavian design is increasingly inspired by the Danish concept hygge, which is a sort of cozy feeling that celebrates the simple things in life.
Industrial
This style was born out of necessity in the 1960s, when people began converting former industrial areas into residential neighborhoods, but it continues to be popular today. It intentionally leaves brick walls, pipes, and steel structures exposed to create a masculine and dramatic effect. Weathered wood, leather, concrete, and metal create a worn look while antiques and found items add character.
Design Your Home with Hanson Builders
We hope you have been inspired by the many interior design styles that are popular today. But you need not follow any particular style exactly. The beauty of building your own home is finding a style that is unique to you, although you make take cues from a number of trends. At Hanson Builders, the experienced designers at our interior design studio in Andover can help you create a space that feels like home to you and your family.
Contact us today to start designing your new home.
