How do I find my decorating style?

A question people often ask themselves before redecorating their home: how do I find my decorating style? Indeed, furniture manufacturers produce a wide variety of collections, and it's sometimes difficult to find your way around all the decorating styles on offer. If you're wondering how to create a consistent style in your apartment or home, it's time to consider some of today's biggest trends in interior design. After reading this article, you'll know all about the different styles you can adopt for your interior design!

The Modern style

The term "modern" is one of the broadest in the world of decoration and architecture, and can encompass a number of different sub-styles. The modern style is characterized by clean lines, a simple color palette and elegant accents. There's little clutter in a modern-style apartment or house, and the materials most commonly represented are steel, glass and metal.

Contemporary

The contemporary style is a subcategory of the modern decorating style. Although many people use the two terms interchangeably, there are some notable differences. Modern is a strict interpretation of twentieth-century design, while contemporary leaves more room for experimentation. It also embraces current styles, such as curved lines.

Minimalist

Some people also use the term "minimalist" to describe modern styles, but true minimalism takes modern decor and simplifies it even further. Most colors chosen are neutral or pastel to create a feeling of openness and lightness. Furniture is as uncluttered as possible, focusing on functionality and ergonomics rather than decoration. There's nothing excessive or extra in a minimalist environment.

Scandinavian

Scandinavian decor is another style that uses minimalism. Instead of functional minimalism, Scandinavian minimalism is about paying homage to the simplicity of the Nordic lifestyle. All-white color palettes are very common, and functionality is balanced by sculptural design. You'll see a number of natural elements incorporated into Scandinavian spaces, including wood and natural fiber accents. Typically, a little color is introduced through accent furniture.

If the environment you're looking to decorate is spacious and benefits from plenty of natural light, it's perfectly suited to Scandinavian-style decor. Nordic style can also help you find the right style for your apartment or house, and make the most of smaller spaces with smaller, functional pieces of furniture.

Japandi

The Japandi style is the intersection of Scandinavian and modern Japanese interior design styles. Both are based on minimalist design principles and emphasize warmth, natural elements and color palettes reminiscent of nature. With Japandi style, you won't find ornate details on furniture. Instead, shapes and lines are truly streamlined, with furniture and décor that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. Abundant natural light and plants are also key elements of Japandi interior design.

Industrial

Inspired by urban spaces and construction projects, the industrial look is full of exposed brick and ductwork, old wood, hanging light fixtures and rebar. Many industrial designs appear accidentally when a former industrial space is converted into an apartment complex or mixed-use space. A neutral color palette with lots of wood or metal evokes the traditional industrial ambience. Add a few pieces of photography, abstract art and furniture with metal ornaments to complete the space and find your home's style.

Shabby Chic

Shabby Chic is definitely a bohemian-inspired style, but it tends more towards femininity and delicacy. Soft furnishings, antique accents and aged fixtures are the main characteristics of this style. While most of the rooms chosen in this style are simple, you'll discover ornate decor in the form of wall hangings and light fixtures. The color palettes of this style are cream, white and pastel.

Traditional

Derived from European decorating, the traditional style tends to use an abundance of accessories to evoke a sumptuous environment. Dark woods and richly colored fabrics reign supreme, while velvet and silk are used as often as possible. Many textures and patterns are added to spaces with a traditional style.

Rustic

Rustic style is one of the most popular design trends, drawing inspiration from the natural world. When you're trying to style your interior, if you're drawn to reclaimed wood, natural textiles and plants, rustic style is for you. Many people looking for rustic furniture tend to turn to wicker chairs, stone table tops and natural textiles.

COASTAL

Coastal decor is inspired by the seaside look of the U.S. East Coast. Neutral color palettes are enhanced by oceanic blues and greens, and wood elements are common. Most accents are inspired by plants and animals. The coastal style of your home can be seen in white-painted wooden furniture, beige sofas and patterned rugs, pillows and blankets.

TRANSITIONAL

Transitional decorating is a very popular style, as it tends to incorporate both traditional and modern design. By choosing a few pieces from each style, transitional decor offers a sense of balance and ensures that no one style dominates the room. A common example of transitional decor is the fusion of modern materials, such as glass and steel, with more traditional furniture. A transitional space is often very elegant while retaining a warm, soothing feel.