5 Design Styles Commonly Used

Written by: Design Delicacy

Ever see something that you're drawn to and you try to explain it to someone but you can't quite put your finger on the right word? Boho Chic? Scandinavian? Jungalow? ('Is that even a thing?' you might ask) With the world now at our finger tips - the possibilities are endless when it comes to design inspirational photos. So I ask you...What's your favorite design style?

We are going to explore 5 different design styles that we use frequently. Many times our clients find they are a blend between several different types of design styles - So let's get right into this stuff and have some fun!

#1 Modern

“The word “modern” is one of the most misused phrases in decorating. Often confused with contemporary style, today’s modern style is based on a design movement that was birthed around the turn of the 20th century” - Understanding the Modern Style of Decor by Tonya Lee

Identifying features - Modern design often looks minimal and doesn't usually have a lot of details. Think clean, crisp, and uncluttered. Usually, all the items featured in the design have a specific purpose. If something doesn't have a practical purpose, then no need to keep it in the space!

Finishes - Lots of woods, natural materials and chrome, steel or glass surfaces. Oftentimes, you'll see wood beams exposed.

Color Palette - Typically it's monochromatic. Despite gray being widely used, warm neutral colors are commonly used in modern designs.

Example of a Modern Living Room in cool hues (Above)

#2 Mid-Century Modern

“When many Bauhaus architects and designers migrated to America as a result of changes in Germany after the second World War, they started the design movement known as Mid-Century Modern. It's characterized by simplicity and functionality.” - 5 Things You Should Know About the Mid-Century Modern Style, Abe Abbas

Identifying features - Functionality is still a key player here, sleek lines with more organic patterns and stark contrasts. Fresh, bold, and "retro" best describe this era.

Finishes - Wood, plastics, metal, glass, vinyl, lucite

Color Palette - Bright colors. Some colors can include greens, yellows, oranges and earth tones (although not limited to these).

A Mid-Century Modern Apartment taken from HomeKlondike.com (Above)

#3 Contemporary

“Since contemporary interior design styles are forever evolving to what is the latest, it tends to pick up various elements that cannot be utilized in modern design." - CONTEMPORARY VS MODERN INTERIOR DESIGN: A BREAKDOWN OF THE STYLES

Identifying features - Just as the above quote stated, "Contemporary" can be defined as "What's trending or what's current." It tends to take on more fluidity as opposed to modern design. Since this style is constantly evolving, it tends to be rather "Eclectic" - taking on multiple design styles from different eras. Curves, comfort, sophistication, simplicity, sleek surfaces, unique lighting.

Finishes - Can be many; woods, metals, glass, etc.

Color Palette - Contemporary designs tend to stick to more of a black and white or gray color palette but other colors can be used here.

Example of a Contemporary Living Room with color (By Studio 54)

#4 Transitional

“Think a restful and serene transitional living room that features a thoughtful mix of contemporary, modern, and even antique furnishings with punchy flourishes that together evoke the art of brilliant combinations." - TRANSITIONAL STYLE DEFINED WITH TIPS TO MAKE IT WORK FOR YOU IN 2019 - Decor Aid

Identifying features - As if Modern and Contemporary weren't already confusing, Transitional is a blend between traditional and modern. There is really no end to the direction you can take here. Oftentimes you'll see antique pieces mixed together with modern pieces that create a seamless blend. Balance is key here!

Finishes - The sky is the limit here. Protip: Don't use use too many conflicting colors or patterns otherwise it will take an Eclectic turn!

Color Palette - It all depends on the tone you'd like to set for the room

Transitional Dining Room - Notice the blend of traditional and modern elements. (culturacolective.com)

#5 Hollywood Glam

“Hollywood Regency is known for its glamour, drama and new twist on old classics. The style became popular in the 1930s during the golden age of Hollywood" - DESIGN STYLE 101: HOLLYWOOD REGENCY by Mandi Johnson

Identifying features - Luxurious, dramatic, bold, shiny, and glitzy! Lots of mirrors, and fun textures. The beautiful thing here is you can incorporate traditional pieces without feeling "old."

Finishes - Metallics, mirrors, glass, metals, luxe fabrics, velvet, etc.

Color Palette - Black and white or neutrals accented with some color.

Monochromatic Glam Living Room

So there you have it! 5 styles that we find ourselves designing in frequently. But that's not all - Be on the lookout for part 2!

Comment below, we'd love to hear what you thought about this article!