8 Common Types of Interior Decor Styles

When it comes to decorating your home, finding the right interior decor style is key to creating a space that reflects your personality and taste. With so many styles to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide which one resonates with you the most. In this article, we’ll explore eight common interior decor styles to help you discover which one might be the perfect fit for your home.

1. Art Deco

Art Deco is a bold and luxurious style that emerged in the 1920s and 1930s — known for its glamorous, sophisticated aesthetic. This style is characterized by its use of geometric patterns, pops of color, and opulent materials such as glass, chrome, and lacquered wood. Art Deco often features symmetrical designs, intricate details, and a sense of grandeur, making it a perfect choice for those who love a touch of elegance and drama in their decor.

Art deco’s influence can be seen in iconic buildings like the Chrysler Building in New York City, with its striking geometric design and lavish decor. In the world of interior design, popular Art Deco designers include Émile-Jacques Ruhlmann, known for his luxurious furniture pieces, and Jean Dunand, famed for his lacquered screens and vases. The style continues to inspire modern interiors, especially in spaces that aim to evoke a sense of timeless glamour.

2. Bohemian

Bohemian, also known as “boho” style, is all about embracing a free-spirited, eclectic aesthetic that reflects a love for culture, art, and adventure. This style became particularly popular in the 1960s and 1970s and is characterized by its mix of vibrant colors, patterns, and textures, often incorporating materials like woven rugs, macramé, and vintage furniture. Boho spaces are usually filled with plants, layered textiles, and global-inspired decor, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere that feels personal and relaxed.

3. Coastal

Coastal decor is inspired by the sea and beach life, aiming to create a light, airy, and relaxing atmosphere. This style typically features a color palette dominated by whites, blues, and sandy neutrals, evoking the calm and tranquility of the ocean. Natural materials such as wood, rattan, or linen are common in coastal interiors, along with nautical elements like driftwood, seashells, and rope accents. The result is a fresh, breezy space that brings a touch of the beach into your home, perfect for those who love the ocean and a laid-back lifestyle.

4. Contemporary

Contemporary decor reflects the styles and trends of the present moment, focusing on sleek, clean lines, and a minimalist approach. Unlike other styles that are rooted in a specific time period, contemporary decor evolves with the times, incorporating the latest materials, colors, and design trends. Contemporary interiors are known for their simplicity, functionality, and focus on space and light. This style of design is exemplified by architects and designers like Frank Gehry, Jean Nouvel, and Zaha Hadid (particularly known for her futuristic and innovative designs).

5. Industrial

Industrial decor takes its inspiration from old factories and industrial spaces, featuring a raw, unfinished look that emphasizes the beauty of materials like brick, metal, and wood. This style is characterized by exposed pipes, beams, and ducts, as well as large windows, open floor plans, and utilitarian furniture. The color palette typically includes neutral tones such as grays, browns, and blacks, creating a rugged yet stylish environment. 

6. Mid-Century Modern

Mid-century modern is a design style that came onto the scene in the mid-20th century, particularly popular from the 1940s to the 1960s. This particular style is characterized by clean lines, organic shapes, and a focus on function. Mid-century modern interiors often feature a mix of natural and synthetic materials, such as wood, plastic, and metal, and a color palette that includes both neutral tones and bold, vibrant hues. The style emphasizes simplicity and minimalism, with an emphasis on open spaces and seamless integration of indoor and outdoor environments.

Iconic mid-century modern designers include Charles and Ray Eames, known for their innovative furniture designs, and Eero Saarinen, famous for his sculptural chairs and tables. The style remains popular today, especially for those who love a mix of vintage charm and modern functionality.

7. Minimalist

Minimalist decor is all about simplicity, focusing on the essentials and eliminating excess. This style embraces the "less is more" philosophy, featuring clean lines, a neutral color palette, and a clutter-free environment. Minimalism is ideal for those who seek a peaceful, uncluttered living space that promotes clarity and mindfulness. The emphasis is on functionality, with furniture and decor that are simple, practical, and unadorned. Minimalist interiors often feature open spaces, with plenty of light and a sense of calm and order. Some well-known minimalist designers include John Pawson — known for his stark, serene interiors — and Naoto Fukasawa, whose designs emphasize simplicity and subtle beauty. 

8. Rustic

Rustic decor is inspired by the natural world, bringing the warmth and charm of the countryside into your home. This style is characterized by the use of raw, natural materials like wood, stone, and metal, and an earthy color palette with shades of brown, green, orange and beige. Rustic interiors often feature exposed beams, stone fireplaces, and vintage or handmade furniture, creating a cozy, welcoming atmosphere that feels both timeless and comfortable.

Take the time to explore these different styles, experiment with elements from each, and you’ll soon discover the design that truly feels like home!