How to Decorate Your Home in 6 Different Interior Design Styles
So, you've chosen your design style and are eager to begin decorating. But how do you capture the essence of wabi-sabi or mid-century modern aesthetics? How do you decorate in a modern coastal style without leaning too thematic?
To simplify things and help you achieve your vision, we've outlined six popular design styles and offered our styling tips — along with some professional advice from the experts — for decorating your home with confidence.
Modern Coastal
Modern coastal interior design has emerged as a leading global aesthetic, prized for its effortless tranquillity and minimalist charm. Drawing inspiration from traditional coastal themes like Hamptons, Mediterranean, and Bohemian, this style blends elements from each into a streamlined, contemporary interpretation.
In modern coastal design, the emphasis is on creating a serene atmosphere through the use of natural materials such as rattan, reclaimed wood, linen, concrete, and stones like travertine and limestone. However, the hallmark of this design approach is its commitment to minimalism — avoiding clutter while maximising texture and depth.
A modern coastal colour palette features soothing whites, soft blues, and sandy neutrals, with charcoal and mushroom browns serving as ideal contrasting colours.
For modern coastal decor ideas, consider incorporating sisal rugs, linen cushions, stone vases, and woven baskets to add subtle layers of texture. Neutral coastal landscape paintings or prints are encouraged, but it's advisable to use other coastal-inspired motifs such as surfboards, shells, coral, or woven fans sparingly to avoid overwhelming the space.
Coastal interiors celebrate the beauty of the natural world, so incorporate biophilic design whenever possible. This can be achieved through plants like cacti, palms, or hanging ivy, and by using light, airy window treatments to allow a naturally uplifting ambience.
For modern coastal tapware, choose finishes that reflect coastal colour palettes such as brushed brass, brushed nickel, and white for a lighter, brighter look, and brushed gunmetal for a more striking contrast.
Mediterranean
In recent years, modern coastal and Mediterranean interior designs have frequently been combined due to their shared coastal influences and focus on texture and simplicity. However, authentic Mediterranean design relies less on tropical or marine-time aesthetics and remains deeply rooted in history, embodying the warmth and timeless elegance of the Greek, Italian, Spanish, and Moroccan regions.
In Mediterranean interiors, natural materials such as clay, terracotta, stone, and wrought iron are preferred, reflecting architectural traditions and values centered around handcrafted tiles, mosaic patterns, and intricate woodworking.
For Mediterranean decor ideas, seamlessly blend ornate and rustic elements together to create inviting and practical spaces.
“The kitchen or living room should embody comfort, hospitality, and convenience,” says Fantastic Services' painting and decorating expert Ilia Nachev.
“Decorate open-shelve cupboards or buffet cabinets with accessories such as bright kitchen utensils and decorative plates, decorative ceramics like pots and plates, amphoras, and wrought copper, such as candlesticks and lamps.”
While the decor itself is minimal, the use of textiles and art is generous, with stone, tiles, and arched details being integral features across Spain, Italy, Greece, and Morocco. So be sure to choose items with plenty of curves and avoid overly rigid, boxy shapes.
When selecting your base colour palette, choose warm, natural earthy tones like terracotta, ochre, and sandy beige. Enhance these with region-specific accents: for Greece, incorporate vibrant whites, Aegean blues, and turquoise; for Spain, use deep reds and bright yellows; for Italy, mix olive greens, sea blues, yellows, and terracotta based on whether you prefer a rustic or coastal-inspired look; and for Morocco, rich oranges and reds inspired by the vibrant hues of their spices.
However, to truly evoke Mediterranean design, incorporate traditional patterns and designs such as hand-painted tiles, rugs, tapestries, and ceramics. Additionally, lighting is essential in setting the ambience, with wrought iron chandeliers, lantern-style pendants, and wall sconces adding a warm, inviting glow and old-world charm.
When selecting fixtures and finishes for Mediterranean design, opt for textures like our Namika Reeded Collection and cement basins. Finishes should complement the space and available light, with popular choices including matte black, aged brass, brushed copper, and brushed nickel. These selections add depth and character while maintaining the timeless appeal of the Mediterranean style.
Wabi-Sabi
Inspired by Japanese aesthetics, wabi-sabi interior design embraces the beauty of imperfection and is rooted in nature and mindfulness. It values authenticity and simplicity, celebrating the inherent beauty found in natural materials like wood, stone, and handmade ceramics.
In wabi-sabi interiors, excessive decorating is deliberately avoided to maintain a peaceful atmosphere; however, if you prefer to decorate, objects that reflect the passage of time are preferred.
The colour palette in wabi-sabi design leans towards earthy tones and muted shades, echoing the natural world and promoting a sense of harmony and tranquillity.
For wabi-sabi-inspired decor ideas, consider incorporating handmade pottery, worn wooden furniture and organic textiles like linen throw pillows and blankets. Remember, when choosing decor pieces for wabi-sabi, the more imperfections and history, the better.
Lighting is also crucial in wabi-sabi as it sets the ambience for the home. Fixtures such as organically shaped pendants and box lights will create a soft lighting effect while adding to the organic feel of the space.
When choosing your fixtures, opt for textural finishes such as our Namika Reeded Collection and cement basins. Finishes are dependent on the space and natural light available; however, the most common finishes include matte black, aged brass, brushed copper, and brushed nickel.
Mid-Century Modern
Mid-century modern interior design reflects the optimism and innovation of the mid-20th century, particularly from the 1940s to the 1960s. It is characterised by clean lines, organic shapes, and a blend of traditional craftsmanship with modern materials and techniques.
Mid-century modern interiors prioritise functionality and simplicity. Furniture pieces are often iconic and timeless, featuring tapered legs, geometric forms, and deep, natural wood finishes.
Materials commonly used in mid-century modern interiors include teak, walnut, and rosewood for furniture and fibreglass, metal, and glass for accessories and lighting fixtures. These materials highlight the era's commitment to quality craftsmanship and innovative design.
The colour palette in mid-century modern design typically features warm earthy tones like mustard yellow, olive green, and burnt orange, as well as cool shades of blue and grey. These colours are complemented by bold accents and patterns, such as abstract geometric prints, asymmetrical designs, and a plethora of indoor plants.
For mid-century modern decor ideas, elevate practical items into artistic elements. Consider a colourful lamp, a vintage record player, or iconic furniture such as Eames lounge chairs, Nelson bubble lamps, and Saarinen tulip tables.
When selecting fixtures and finishes for mid-century modern design, opt for metals that complement the warmer tones of this scheme, like brushed copper, brushed nickel, and matte black. These choices help create a cohesive and visually appealing interior that captures the essence of this iconic design era.
Read more on mid-century modern kitchens.
Farmhouse
Farmhouse interior design is all about rustic charm and timeless appeal, drawing inspiration from traditional rural homes and barns. This style emphasises a warm and inviting atmosphere with its use of natural materials such as wood, stone, and metals like wrought iron.
Farmhouse styles vary widely, from coastal and industrial to traditional English. Recently, a minimalist farmhouse approach has gained popularity. This approach emphasises simplicity and focuses instead on rich textures. Earthy tones like warm whites, soft creams, and natural wood hues define this minimalist style, fostering a serene and inviting atmosphere while encapsulating the cosy essence quintessential to traditional farmhouse interiors.
When furnishing a farmhouse-inspired space, opt for sturdy furniture pieces crafted from reclaimed wood or distressed finishes. Textiles such as cotton and linen in muted tones add softness and authenticity to the decor.
To enhance the farmhouse ambience, consider incorporating vintage or antique accents like old-fashioned lanterns, woven baskets, and ceramic pottery, or display an eclectic mix of mixing bowls, mugs, and wooden chopping boards on open shelving to complete the look.
Greenery such as potted herbs, wildflowers, and indoor plants bring a touch of nature indoors. Alternatively, go thrift shopping for unique pieces that’ll add to the overall eclectic charm of the space.
Farmhouse interior design captures the essence of rustic elegance and simplicity, creating a welcoming retreat reminiscent of a slow life. If a rustic, country-inspired farmhouse isn’t exactly your style, don’t be afraid to mix it with other styles, such as coastal or industrial, to create the right fit for you and your environment.
Scandinavian
Scandinavian interior design has captivated the world with its clean lines, functional simplicity, and emphasis on light and space. Originating from Nordic countries, this aesthetic has evolved into a global favourite for its ability to create a cosy yet modern atmosphere.
Drawing inspiration from the region's stark landscapes and long winters, Scandinavian design embraces natural materials with an emphasis on simplicity and functionality. Every piece of furniture and decor serves a purpose without unnecessary embellishments.
“Scandi styling is all about decluttering,” says IconByDesign Interior Stylist and Design Consultant Nikita Crockett.
“Selecting a few key high-quality, minimalist furniture pieces will work wonders when working towards your dream Scandinavian aesthetic.”
To achieve a Scandinavian-inspired home, consider incorporating stacked coffee tables in the living room or a large oak dining table with wishbone chairs.
“Be sure to integrate materials such as solid timber — ideally lighter timbers such as oak — and wools into your palette to create a true Scandinavian feeling,” says Nikkita.
“[Scandanvian interior design’s] soft, muted colour palette is typically characterised by various shades of whites, creams and greys,” says Nikita.
For a pop of colour, try an egg chair in a vivid red or a brightly coloured ceramic amidst your display shelves. For additional ambience, include minimalist pendant lights with metal framing and a floor lamp with some sort of curvature.
Rugs made from natural fibres like wool or cotton, with simple geometric patterns or solid colours, are used in Scandinavian interiors to define spaces and provide warmth over hardwood floors.
Wall art typically includes minimalist artwork such as black and white photography, abstract prints, or nature-inspired illustrations for a touch of biophilic design.
Of course, Scandinavian design is world-renowned for practical storage solutions such as open shelving, modular units, and storage benches. These ensure spaces remain organised while maintaining a stylish appearance, so take advantage of wooden or metal-framed units to keep your space as clean and tidy as possible.
While these are among the most popular interior design styles, keep in mind that there are countless combinations and variations to explore. Whether you’re drawn to Coastal Farmhouse, Modern Mediterranean, or Scandi-Mid-Century Modern Chic, the possibilities are endless. Ultimately, style your space in a way that reflects your personal taste and lifestyle and use this style guide to help navigate your decorating journey.
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