The challenge I come across most when working with clients 1x1 is how to define their design style. Sometimes they’re not sure where to start, other times they feel stuck because their style is a combination of a few and articulating the blend can be really hard.

Consider this post a preview for what’s to come… It’s a running stream of thoughts by design style to give you a quick taste of each.

In the coming months, I will be going one by one, sharing in-depth descriptions, visuals, characteristics, finishes, search keywords, Pinterest boards, shoppable resources, etc., to simplify the confusing jargon we hear thrown around so often.

My goal is to empower you with an understanding of what you like vs don’t like, and what to call it. Once you’re able to identify your unique aesthetic, sourcing inspiration and making enhancements to your space becomes a million times easier.

Let’s go…

(Ps. don’t forget to check out the corresponding Pinterest board linked to each style title!)

Art Deco

Refers to a distinctive style that emerged during the ~1920’s-1940’s in Western Europe and the United States. Characterized by rich colors, bold geometric patterns (specifically a stepped outline pattern), glitzy, glamorous, sleek. Arches and archways, metallics, mirrors, triangular/trapezoidal shapes, zigzags. Bright gold & antique brass accents, vibrant wallpaper. Black marble, velvet, ornate wall sconces, tiered crystal chandeliers. Fun, lively, maximalist, elegant.

Learn More Here

Shoppable Post

Pinterest Board

Bohemian (“Boho”)

All about relaxed, casual living. It embraces natural and handmade elements, infuses a bit of color against otherwise predominantly neutral backdrops. The presence of plants - lots and lots of plants. Indoor potted plants, succulents and trees, inviting the outdoors in. It’s a little bit hippie, a little bit funky, a little bit beachy. Incense, candles, dreamcatchers, hanging swings. Pinks, peach, blues, greens, muted reds, natural oak wood, rattan.

Contemporary

The definition of contemporary is: belonging to or occurring in the present. Therefore, contemporary design (in my opinion) is what is popular and widely sought after right now. Contemporary design is ever-evolving. Right now, contemporary design includes lots of white: white walls, white tile, white marble, etc., surrounded by neutrals. Possibly some shades of light grey, light wood floors, brass or matte black finishes and black steel windows. Refined, simple, serene; bright, light, airy, inviting. Clean lines. Relaxed but extremely thoughtfully curated.

French Country

Think traditional meets farmhouse (descriptions below), but with European influences and no hints of modern. Heavy emphasis on natural materials, antiques, muted colors, light patterns, tailored upholstery. Toile fabrics, ruffles, shabby chic… but less shabby, more chic. Bronze accents, soft yellows, warm orangey-reds, light pinks, baby blues, and cream. Graceful, inviting, feminine, worn in woods, florals.

Industrial

Think urban warehouse. All about raw materials - concrete, steel, exposed brick, wood, leather, metal, iron. An unfinished feel. Often stark, but sleek. Cold, unless softened through use of cozy textures. Shades of grey, black, brown, deep red, burnt orange, stainless. The space itself becomes a work of art.

Island Style

I think there’s a misconception that Island / Coastal style must integrate pictures of sand dunes, have lots of light blues against all-white backdrops with a ton of nautical, seashell, starfish and sand dollar decor sprinkled in… That’s certainly one type of coastal style, but island living is all about honoring the surrounding landscape… therefore one must ask the question of where the place is located - is it the coast of California? Miami? The Caribbean? - because geographic location hugely influences the aesthetic and elements found within the space. Generally speaking, Island Style incorporates a lot of natural materials - rattan, cane, antique woods, jute, sisal, palm fronds, woven grasses & baskets, linen.

Luxe

Sophisticated elegance. The highest standard of quality. Elaborate, decadent, extremely refined. Floor-to-ceiling marble and stone, textured wall coverings, velvet, suede, cashmere, tweed. Custom furnishings, immensely tall ceilings. Gold, crystal, metallic & glass accents. Original paintings, sculptures, Persian rugs, tiered chandeliers, perfectly understated lighting. Hollywood Regency.

A hint of maximalism. Design by the incredibly talented Kelly Wearstler | @kellywearstler — *A hint of maximalism. Design by the incredibly talented Kelly Wearstler |* *@kellywearstler*

Maximalism (Eclectic)

The polar opposite of Minimalism (description below). Think a diverse blend of patterns, colors, textures, finishes, all in one space. Funky, artistic, creative. Not ascribing to one style, rather integrating many. Overwhelming to some, incredibly expressive and awe-inspiring to others. Sometimes there’s a theme, sometime’s it’s a hodge podge of beloved elements. Think words like “wow” and “oh my goodness”! As with everything, maximalism lives on a spectrum - from a few thought-provoking, eccentric pieces sprinkled in, to utterly wild.

Mid-Century Modern

Refers to a very distinctive style that emerged in the mid-20th century - within architecture and furniture design in particular. Characterized by simplicity and functionality. Uncluttered and sleek, clean lines but with gentle curves. Tufted upholstery, leather, teak & walnut. Specific color palette, including orange, brown, cream, turquoise, tomato red, mustard yellow, navy, chartreuse, plum and others. Vibrant but muted, trend toward earthy.

Minimalism

Only the most important, necessary furnishings live within a space. Less is more, quality over quantity, fully furnished, just very pared down. Undressed, but not naked. Essentials only, no clutter. Frees up the mind. The concept is the absence of things - but you’re welcome to furnish with whatever style of pieces appeal to you.

Modern

Modern design is often confused with “contemporary” design because the word modern with a lowercase ‘m’ relates to the present. Contemporary Design is the trend of the moment, whereas Modern Design (with a capital ‘M’) also refers to a specific time period. Without getting too in the weeds on this now, if I had to choose one word to characterize the Modern Design Style, it would be sleek. Think no-frills, sensible, focus on form & function, quality over quantity, refined, streamlined. Heavy use of natural materials (almost industrial), shades of grey and black. Warm woods, stone (granite), and leather details.

Modern Farmhouse

Shiplap & bead board, wood furnishings, subway tiles, galvanized steel, wrought iron & matte black finishes, fresh greenery, farmhouse antiques, baskets, wood beams, rustic elements. White, neutrals and more white. Blends simplicity and clean lines with warm, welcoming comfort. Hugely popular in recent years.

Monochromatic

A style utilizing only one or two colors for everything within a space - furnishings, art, decor, window treatments, rugs, lighting, etc. - with a few different shades of that color layered in to create dimension. Neutral (beige, tan, white, cream) monochromatic spaces are very popular right now, but the concept can just as easily be applied with a bold color.

Mountain Style

Fireplaces, stonework, rustic elements, wool, tweed, plaid, big chandeliers, fur, leather, cowhides, shearling, taxidermy, landscapes, heavy drapery, wrought iron, timber frame, exposed beams. Heavy emphasis on natural materials, softened with plush textures. Tendency toward darker, moodier colors (including Earth tones & primary colors). Softly lit spaces to create a beautiful ambiance to get cozy in.

Scandinavian Modern

Monochromatic, light (but muted) neutrals, minimalist. Refined, clutter-free, clean lines, simple, functional. Less is more. Light woods - beech, ash, pine - and lots of it. Maximizing natural light, a few pieces of fresh greenery.

Southwestern

Strong influence from Mexican & Native American heritage. Embracing the richness of color found in nature - think colors inspired by clay, mud, rust, dirt, plants, food, water - both muted & vibrant. Lots of warmth. Terra cotta tiles, stucco, ceramics, archways, honeycomb shapes, intricate patterns, mosaics, dark woods, woven textiles, water features, ceiling fans, indoor trees & greenery, outdoor living rooms with fireplaces.

Traditional

Think time-travel back to America in the early 1800’s. Strong European influence with an emphasis on rich woods, antiques, tailored upholstered seating, distinctive patterns. Timeless, regal and elegant. Comfortable but not too plush. A subtle formality to everyday living. Traditional furnishings have unique characteristics - such as clawfoot bottoms or pleats. Different hues of color and styles of patterns are integrated into a space through prints, drapery, art, textiles.

Transitional

A blend of traditional & contemporary. Most often, a space will have traditional bones - such as millwork (moldings, built-ins, trim, or wood paneling) or original hardwood floors - paired with more contemporary elements, such as colorfully painted walls, furnishings, art, lighting and decor. Creates a balanced feel of old meets new - comfortable with a hint of traditional elegance.

Zen. Sourced from Aman Kyoto. — *Zen. Sourced from* *Aman Kyoto.*

Zen

Heavily influenced by the principles of Feng Shui. Balanced, natural, minimalist. Low-profile furnishings, privacy screens, indoor trees, light wood, branches, bamboo. Unobstructed views of the outdoors, honoring nature. Natural light invited in, supplemented with soft subdued accent lighting to create a calming ambiance. Ultimate serenity.

Stay tuned for in-depth content on each style in the months to come!

Until next time,