Design preferences are as diverse as the individuals inhabiting the spaces. Some find solace in rooms adorned with neutral colors and minimal décor, while others thrive in environments filled to the brim with furniture, accessories, and vibrant wallpaper.
If you’re about to start an interior design project in Fort Lauderdale, labeling your style might make the process easier. Take a look at some of the most popular interior design styles and get tips to discover the aesthetic that resonates with your vision the most.
Understanding Different Design Styles
Traditional
Originating from 18th and 19th-century European decor, traditional style is a testament to the elegance and refinement of historic homes and estates. It embraces ornate furniture with intricate details, luxurious fabrics such as velvet and silk, and formal arrangements.
Warm, rich colors like deep reds, greens, and blues set the tone, often accompanied by decorative accents like chandeliers, intricate moldings, and antique accessories.
If you like the traditional style for your space, choose classic furniture pieces like wingback chairs, Chesterfield sofas, and claw-foot tables. You can pair them with rich, traditional fabrics such as damask, brocade, and tapestry for upholstery and drapery.
Finally, add depth and sophistication with ornate rugs, crystal chandeliers, and framed oil paintings.
Modern and Contemporary
Emerging in the early to mid-20th century, modern and contemporary design styles prioritize simplicity, clean lines, and functionality. They feature minimalist aesthetics with uncluttered spaces and an emphasis on open floor plans and natural light.
Neutral color palettes like whites, grays, and blacks dominate, often accented by bold pops of color or metallic finishes. Furniture boasts smooth surfaces, geometric shapes, and materials like glass, metal, and polished wood.
To embrace modern or contemporary style, select furniture with clean lines and minimal ornamentation, such as modular sofas, glass coffee tables, and sculptural accent chairs.
Opt for a monochromatic color scheme with occasional splashes of color through artwork, throw pillows, or area rugs, and incorporate statement lighting fixtures like pendant lights or track lighting.
Minimalist
Minimalism emerged as a response to excess and consumerism in the mid-20th century and focuses on simplicity, purpose, and the beauty of essential elements. In other words, minimalists believe less is more.
If you choose minimalism for your project, declutter and streamline your space, focusing on quality over quantity. Choose furniture with a simple yet elegant design, such as a platform bed, modular sofa, or sleek dining table.
Moreover, pick multi-functional pieces that serve multiple purposes, like a storage ottoman or wall-mounted shelves. Keep decorative accents to a minimum, allowing negative space to enhance the aesthetic.
Industrial
Inspired by the conversion of warehouses and factories into living spaces in urban areas, industrial design celebrates raw materials, exposed architectural elements, and utilitarian aesthetics. Materials such as metal, brick, concrete, and reclaimed wood are utilized to create a rugged, unfinished look.
Other characteristics include:
- Exposed structural elements like pipes, ductwork, and beams
- Neutral color palettes with industrial-inspired hues like grays, blacks, and browns
- Pops of color or metallic finishes.
To achieve an industrial look, incorporate raw materials and exposed elements into your space. Opt for furniture with a utilitarian aesthetic, such as metal stools, wire mesh chairs, and distressed leather sofas.
Enhance the industrial vibe with factory-style lighting fixtures like pendant lights or exposed bulb sconces, and include textures with reclaimed wood accents, such as a rustic dining table or floating shelves.
Bohemian
Drawing inspiration from the unconventional and artistic lifestyle of bohemian communities, bohemian style embraces a free-spirited, eclectic aesthetic. It mixes patterns, colors, and textures from around the world to create a vibrant and eclectic look.
Layering and maximalism are key, with rich, jewel-toned colors like deep blues, greens, and purples dominating the palette. Spaces with bohemian style also feature global-inspired prints, textiles, and decorative accents.
For a bohemian-style room, layer textiles such as colorful rugs, throw pillows, and tapestries. Mix and match furniture styles and eras, incorporating vintage pieces, handcrafted items, and flea market finds. Add pops of color and pattern with bold artwork and decorative objects from your travels.
Scandinavian
Originating in the Nordic countries of Scandinavia, Scandinavian design emerged in the early 20th century as a response to the harsh Nordic climate, emphasizing functionality and connection to nature. Clean lines, minimalist aesthetics, and a focus on light and space define Scandinavian interiors, along with:
- Light, neutral color palettes like whites, grays, and pastels
- Natural materials such as wood, leather, and wool
- Functional furniture with sleek, minimalist designs and organic shapes
Achieve a Scandinavian look by using light wood furniture, sheepskin throws, and woven textiles. Keep the color palette light and airy, with occasional pops of color through accent pieces or artwork.
Additionally, enhance the sense of coziness with layers of soft textiles like plush area rugs, knit throws, and linen curtains. Maximize natural light and embrace nature-inspired elements such as potted plants and botanical artwork.
Mediterranean
Inspired by the coastal regions of Southern Europe, Mediterranean design reflects the relaxed, sun-drenched lifestyle of countries like Italy, Spain, and Greece. Warm, earthy color palettes dominated by shades of terracotta, ochre, and azure blue evoke the Mediterranean landscape.
Natural materials such as stone, terra cotta, and wrought iron are used extensively to create a rustic yet elegant look, paired with details like arches, columns, and decorative tiles.
Here are examples of what to incorporate for a Mediterranean-styled room:
- Wrought iron bed frames
- Wooden dining tables
- Upholstered seating in rich fabrics like linen or leather
- A mosaic backsplash or hand-painted ceramic accents
- Plush textiles like Moroccan-inspired rugs and woven throw blankets
Which Interior Design Is Right for You?
- Reflect on Your Lifestyle: Consider your daily routines, activities, and preferences. Are you drawn to a cozy, relaxed atmosphere, or do you prefer a more formal and structured space?
- Identify Your Preferences: Pay attention to the styles of spaces you feel most comfortable in.
- Consider Your Surroundings: Take cues from your environment, such as the architectural style of your home or the natural surroundings outside your window. Your design style should complement and enhance the existing features of your space.
- Experiment with Temporary Changes: Try out different design elements on a smaller scale before committing to a full redesign. Paint a wall in a bold color, swap out throw pillows, or rearrange furniture to see how different styles feel in your space.
- Consult with a Professional: If you’re still unsure about which style is right for you, hire an interior designer. They can help you identify your preferences and create a cohesive design plan.
Looking for Personalized Interior Design in Fort Lauderdale?
At Interiors by Brown, we can help you choose the perfect design style and follow it to create a luxurious and beautiful space, be it a kitchen, living room, or outdoor area. Contact our team today to book an initial consultation and get started!