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Module: 7

Popular interior styles

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What you’ll learn in this module:

7.1 Minimalist

7.2 Contemporary

7.3 Classic

7.4 Shabby Chic

7.5 Retro

7.6 New York Style

7.7 Parisian Style

7.8 Mediterranean

7.9 Scandinavian

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7.10 New England

So we’ve learned a lot about the components of interior design in terms of how best to prepare a

scheme and how to fill it creatively. While style is all about being imaginative and designing

individual schemes, there are a number of distinctive schools of style from which the designer has a

lot to learn. Recognized design genre are interesting to study as they will provide both a source of

inspiration for your own designs and will also deepen your understanding of the many kinds of

approaches that there are towards interior design.

7.1 Minimalist

Modern minimalist design has its roots in Japanese architectureand Zen philosophical teachings.

Minimalism is more than just a design style; it is the embodiment of an attitude to life where simplicity

and purity are the key. The main concept of minimalism is that less is more.

This look strives to have a space pared down to its bare bones. It is a stripped down look where only

essential items are included in the design scheme; simplicity is king. This style of design came to

prominence in London and New York in the 1980s but has remained a firm favorite for designers

striving to achieve an uncluttered look with cool lines.

The minimalist style requires the designer to take every possible item out of a space and then return

only the essentials. There is no room for frivolity. The look calls for beautiful geometric lines using

materials which are not complicated and have an essential quality. Repeated structures and clear spaces

are common features in minimalist design.

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A very important consideration to pull off this look successfully is to include as much sleek and

unobtrusive storage as you can. The essentials of life will of course still be needed but will largely need

to be kept out of sight with only a few deliberately chosen items on display so having good storage is

vital. The user will certainly also need to have a ruthless purge and declutter of the space in order to

achieve an authentic minimalist look.

The use of natural light is also very important. Any minimalist design needs to consider how light enters

the space and how it moves across the room at different times of day and throughout the seasons. The

shadows and patterns caused by the natural light will have an impact on the geometry and the lines in

the space which are key to this look.

Popular choices for a color palette for this kind of design are white and blue. Pure white is ideal but

other shades of white can be used with successful effect. Other colors which work well are natural

shades with cream and grey tones. Stronger colors can be worked into the color scheme too. They

should however be restricted to one impactful feature wall.

To dress the walls, keep away from hanging lots of fussy framed paintings. Large, unframed artwork

displayed with plenty of space to the sides will create a bold minimalist statement. Avoid over

decorating at all costs but do invest in great simple furniture and bold statement accessories.

For flooring choose a hard surface. For floorboards choose a wide cut board in long lengths to avoid too

many cuts which will disrupt the lines. Patterned wooding flooring such as parquet is too intricate for

this kind of look, so avoid this. Other flooring types to consider are smooth concrete or large natural

square stones.

The best kinds of lighting to choose are oversized statement floor lamps or attractive pendants.

Recessed strip lighting will also work. Minimalism pays a lot of attention to lighting and large statement

pieces are key features.

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7.2 Contemporary

Contemporary style refers to design which is on trend and of the moment. It is fashion led and reflects

popular themes of the era. This type of design by its very nature will therefore change with the times as

what is in mode now will of course change and adapt when new influences become popular. As with the

minimalist look, contemporary style follows the principles of uncluttered and restful design but the

contemporary look will tend to be more homely and colorful. Tidy and fresh, a restful haven.

Currently a contemporary space is signified by being inviting and relaxing. Line is important in a

contemporary scheme and common themes are high ceilings, square or rectangular rugs with blocks of

strong colors on the walls. Undressed windows and unique, statement accessories are key. The use of

empty space to the side of wall art is also an indicator of this style.

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Strong geometric lines feature heavily in furniture choices with simple, dignified and fuss free styles

being particularly relevant. Sofas and armchairs will tend to have exposed wooden legs and frills and

tassels will need to be avoided.

The color palette for this look is for neutrals or monochromes for the primary color with bold, statement

shades or geometric wallpapers for feature walls. The sense is for order and calm but with a splash of

excitement to help the space feel engaging. Exposed architectural features such as piping, air ducts and

exposed brick can work well with this style and there is scope to implement the look in domestic,

commercial and industrial spaces alike.

Flooring should ideally be smooth and sleek. Neutral woods, vinyl or tiles work well with block color or

geometric patterned rugs to add some interest. In terms of soft furnishings, seek out textured fabrics

and style with the same palette of neutral, black or white. A bold color on a sofa for example can also

combine beautifully in this kind of look.

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7.3 Classic

Classic design has its roots back in ancient Roman and Greek times. The central themes are of elegance

and formality and to truly adopt this style, there will be no modern elements. It is a look which is

steeped in history. Whilst not perhaps of appeal to all modern audiences, in the right kind of elegant

space, the classic design look can produce stunning results.

The key indicator of a classic look is the emphasis on a balanced and symmetrical design, a harmonious,

ordered and timeless feel. This is largely achieved by the use of a striking focal point. Large marble

fireplaces, sweeping staircases, statues, large vases or busts are commonly used. Columns are also

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strong indicators. These can be made of stone or marble and this element can be reinforced by the use of

striped wallpaper and curtains.

The focal points in a classic design often represent a central line with other furnishings placed in perfect

equidistance on either side. Placing ornate armchairs, occasional tables or plants on either side of this

line in perfect symmetry add to the classical feel.

With regard to color, a natural palette is favored. Muted terracottas and pinks are popular as are shades

of off white, yellow, green, blue and brown. Bright and bold colors are to be avoided if the design is to

remain true to its classical theme. Black can also be used to create outline.

For upholstery and soft furnishings, the key is to strike an elegant yet understated balance. Velvet, heavy

cottons, linen and canvas work well. To add a touch of luxury, taffeta can be used sparingly. If any

pattern is to be incorporated, then a widely striped motif is most fitting.

Wood, marble, stone or slate is the most authentic flooring choices. They can be laid in interesting

patterns to create interest but essentially the styles favored in Roman and Greek times will keep a

design most closely aligned to a Classical design.

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7.4 Shabby Chic

This is a timeless, elegant and feminine look. Executed properly it will look effortless and composed.

While it may have an unstructured feel, there are certain guidelines which need to be followed in order

to pull this look off successfully.

The shabby chic look is created by salvaging beautiful vintage objects from flea markets, garage sales,

curio shops, vintage retailers and scrap yards. The designer’s skill is then needed to lovingly restore the

pieces and apply the distinctive whitewashed look which is so closely associated with this design style.

The idea is to find furnishings which show signs of gentle wear; shabby chic is not all about being new

and shiny. A skilled designer will be able to recreate this antique look too by treating any newer

furniture. The kinds of pieces which work well will have a distinctive look. Oversized pieces with

rounded edges fit in perfectly and you might want to throw in a beanbag to add to the authenticity.

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As many objects which fit neatly into the shabby chic look are sourced second hand, this is a great style

for the budget conscious.

With regard to color, white is going to be the main shade in the palette. Other pastel shades such as pale

pink, egg shell blue and sandy beige are good choices as well as the hues you would associate with the

beach and seaside. There’s also great scope to bring in wallpaper; ditsy flower prints scream out shabby

chic like no other wall covering.

Your fabric choices need to have a soft, vintage feel. Old lace, soft, lovingly worn cotton and chenille will

work and with regard to pattern small, gentle motifs in muted colors are most effective. Use these for

casually displayed cushions, sofa covers and window dressings.

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To accessorize there is scope to add some sparkle. An old glass bauble pendant light or suitable

chandelier can set a lovely tone. Picture frames with a toned down shine are also brilliant finds to

complement this scheme.

If a shabby chic look is pulled off correctly the effect will be of a beautiful, relaxed, warm space – an

inviting place to be.

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7.5 Retro

The retro look is all about looking backwards with a fond eye, to recreate the design of the decades of

the mid-20th Century. The period from the 1930’s to the 1980’s saw an enormous amount of social and

political change and there is nowhere better to see these changing times than in interior design.

To create a retro look, the first thing to do is to decide on which era you want to copy. Each of the

decades of the last century will resonate differently with users. It could be that that the rock and roll era

and new dawn of the 1950’s appeal to some, or the freeness and experimentation of the 1960’s to

others. The 1970’s and 80’s also have some amazingly distinctive styles associated with them.

Whichever specific time period is chosen, creating a vintage retro look is enormous fun and will bring

great pleasure to the user.

Sometimes users take the architecture and build style of their own home to influence their retro choices.

The proportions, lines and features of a space from the era you are recreating will bring greater

authenticity. Whichever period you choose, the first point of call will be to gather as many pieces of

fantastic furniture and accessories from that time as possible. As the most popular retro periods are

relatively recent, there are some good finds to be had in reclamation yards, vintage retail outlets and

antique stores. There could even be some gems hidden away the attic.

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One of the places in a domestic setting which can best showcase a retro style is the kitchen. Kitchens

have changed dramatically over the last century and the designer can cleverly incorporate modern

functionality with original items to create a faithfully reproduced, yet totally functioning space. A great

era for this treatment is the 1950’s kitchen. Think of the effects of the brightly colored seating with

highly polished chrome legs, the diner look complete with seating booths and mini jukeboxes. Add in

some stainless steel appliances and a wonderful, nostalgic setting can be created.

A great source of inspiration for the retro look is the world of pop culture, film and entertainment.

Nothing will put your finger on the cultural pulse of past decades like the entertainment and music of

the time. Studying film of the era will give you fantastic inspiration for your own scheme especially if

you are looking to go for a glamorous or highly iconic look

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7.6 New York Style

The New York interior design style is relaxed yet elegant. Loft living first began in New York, and these

large, airy spaces have been a key in developing this look.

The use of light in loft living is important. Think of large windows with natural light flooding into the

space and zones carved out of the expansive rooms to provide areas for eating, sleeping, relaxing and

working. To help define the different areas in an open plan space, use different wall coverings. Fabric on

walls creates an authentic feel here. It can inject some coziness into what can potentially be a somewhat

stark space and it also acts as an effective insulator and sounds proofer.

For the color palette, muted tones with the occasional splash of color will work best. It is important to

make color changes throughout the space to avoid the area seeming too overwhelming and impersonal.

It is also vital to retain any original features for the loft living look. Many of the developments have been

converted from industrial spaces, so any elements of that history which remain – think old machinery,

piping etc. – will bring a real depth to the design.

The hallway is a key feature in the New York loft living style. The entrance way announces the arrival

into the space and it is important that it be decorated appropriately to make both a bold statement, to

set the scene for the rest of the space.

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When selecting furniture, choose pieces which can be flexible and moved around. The great thing about

expansive loft living is that you have the possibility to move things around to host amazing parties and

so on, so key not to inhibit the possibilities by anchoring furniture into permanent positions.

Other styles of building in Manhattan will also lend themselves to the New York look. One key

observation is that while the New York style is most associated with lofts, smaller spaces do work too. It

is an area of highly dense population, so sometimes the space requires imagination and creative

minimalism so that you can fit kitchens, living and socializing spaces into a very small square footage. So

really flexibility it key. The designer needs to be able to roll with the extremes. New York style is as

much about attitude as design.

To source items for your New York space then look no further than the vintage stores in and around

Greenwich Village, SoHo and Atlantic Avenue. For new items which capture the New York look, Crate

and Barrel and the Bed, bath and beyond stores will provide much inspiration.

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7.7 Parisian Style

The best way to describe the Parisian style would be an effortless mix of the old and the new. Vintage

pieces sit alongside the new and the perfect fits neatly next to the shabby. The overriding feeling

however is always of careful attention to detail. The French are renowned for their love of style in their

food, their clothing and their appearance. Their attitude to their interiors is no different.

Paris has the advantage of some of the most beautiful architecture, living and working space anywhere

in the world. Classic French spaces have high ceilings with large windows, herringbone wooden flooring,

rolled iron balconies and beautiful views over the stunning rooftops.

Much of the housing stock is to be found in the apartment blocks which cover the city. They can tend

towards being dark, so a good starting point to achieve this look is to paint walls in white or off white

shades to maximize the available light and create an expansive feel. Color can then be reserved for

interesting accessories and eye catching rugs and soft furnishings.

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To source accessories to work the Parisian look you will find a treasure trove of desirable objects in the

numerous French flea markets known as ‘brocante’. Here you can search out the best in curios to pull

your design scheme together. The prices can be really rewarding if you hunt widely enough and you can

be sure to bag some interesting and eclectic finds. If Paris is too far to go, online searching can also prove

fruitful.

The traditional herringbone flooring which is to be found in many classic Parisian apartments is easy on

the eye and works sympathetically with most furnishings, great flexibility for the designer. It can

however be somewhat noisy to walk on so it’s a great idea to invest in some attractive – and sound

proofing – rugs to scatter across the space. This is also a good opportunity to introduce some color to

add interest and contrast with the white walls.

In terms of lighting, nothing says Parisian chic like a dramatic chandelier. Hang above a dining table or

as a focal point in a living area and you will have taken a big step towards pulling this look off with flair.

A final tip when creating a Parisian interior is to bear in mind that the results should appear effortless as

if it has been seamlessly pulled together over time. Stay chic and authentic, mix it up and maximize those

beautiful original features and you will have the Parisian look nailed.

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7.8 Mediterranean

The Mediterranean interior style embodies a carefree, relaxed and casual vibe. Originating in Italy, Spain

and Greece, this kind of style takes much of its look from the stunningly beautiful, sun baked landscape.

Influences from nature are key in the furnishings and architecture with terracotta tiling, rough cut wood

and exposed wooded beams in plentiful supply.

For the color palette, continue along the natural, sunny lines you associate with this part of the world.

Think of earthy tones in browns and reds, colors in the yellow spectrum to reflect the warmth and then

blues and lavenders to bring in the inviting sea tones. Green tones can also work reflecting the lush

inland.

Walls and ceilings should not however be decorated with a flat paint finish. A distinguishing feature of

this look is with textured walls and stucco which give a rich and rustic feel. Exposed brick and beams

also work well.

It is key to include tiling in any Mediterranean style. Tiles can be incorporated into a floor design and on

kitchen and bathroom walls. Using tiles as accessories is also popular. Table tops, splashbacks and inlaid

trays come to mind. The tiles which are chosen can be rough hewn or what also works well is choosing a

mosaic pattern with smaller pieces. Introducing some tiles with a shiny finish into a mosaic design will

beautifully introduce the shimmer of the sea into the scheme.

Thanks to the climate in these regions, a great deal of attention is also paid to the exterior in the

Mediterranean style. Wrought iron work on gates or table and chair sets work well. The ironwork look is

ornate and the pieces tend to be heavy. Soften any exterior or courtyard seating with plump, brightly

colored cushions. Billowing sheer curtains hung in exterior doorways will serve to control the

temperature and also are great for introducing some drama and theatre into the scheme.

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Consider also bringing in water features such as ceramic wall fountains or large water carrying

earthenware jugs into play. Oversized local plants arranged in beautiful ceramic pots are fantastic

accessories

To authentically recreate the Mediterranean look, the designer is best served by thinking of the feelings

of a summer holiday by the sea. Think of the feel of the sunshine, the contrasting greens of the lush

interior and the dusty parched earth, the sparkly, inviting sea and the relaxed and sociable outdoor life.

With these sensations top of mind, the Mediterranean look will be a delight to recreate.

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7.9 Scandinavian

The Scandinavian look came out of a design movement in Denmark, Sweden, Finland, Iceland and

Norway in the 1950’s. This look is beautiful in its elegant simplicity. Light colors and materials with

extensive use of wood are the key indicators of this style. It was born partly out of the environment of

the region. The bitterly cold winters mean that interior spaces needed to be especially warm and

inviting, not least because much of life does indeed take place indoors in the colder months.

The Nordic look is essentially practical and functional with a strong reliance on careful, thoughtful

design. The look for this region is also very democratic. It should be affordable and accessible to all. The

reliance on locally produced materials makes this objective more realistic. This accessibility puts the

Scandinavian design style in sharp contrast to the more opulent styles favored elsewhere.

The Scandinavian look places emphasis on clean lines, symmetry and light. However, correctly executed,

the feel for the space should also exude warmth and coziness; it is not a stark or cold look by any means.

Using local materials and taking inspiration from the colors outdoors is important. The color palette will

contain grays, blues and other light shades. In terms of materials, think of linens, fur, granite and clay to

decorate and accessorize a Scandi space.

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Furniture which will add depth to a Scandinavian design, will often have exposed wooden legs and with

sofas upholstered in plain textured materials. Handles normally have a discrete rounded feel. Geometric

patterns on rugs and sleek pendant lighting are also good choices.

The three essentials of Scandinavian Design are: good design for everyone; beauty and functionality; and

optimal use of available resources. The development of mass produced and well priced furniture with

the distinctive Nordic look, has brought this kind of design within accessible reach of a large audience.

This reinforces the principle of good design not being an elitist dream but an accessible, practical and

beautiful everyday reality.

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7.10 New England

This distinctive style has been in development since the American Revolution. It effortlessly combines

the formal elegance of early Boston with a more casual, seaside look. It looks to the stunning geography

of this corner of the USA for inspiration taking many influences from the imposing mountains and

stunning coastline alike. Having sensibilities to the history of the region and the environment, makes the

New England look a rich and rewarding subject for the designer.

In terms of a color palette, the clear winners here are blue and white which are closely associated with

this look. These can be in pale shades but also stronger deeper blues reflect the crisp, nautical feel of the

area. Natural sandy shades also work well.

Clean, crisp and unfussy lines work well in this look. Wide pine plank cladding gives an authentic feel to

the outside of buildings and the look can be brought inside where wide wooden floorboards with a

scattering of rugs in neutral colors are just right. While there is a little room for intricacy in the entrance

way to New England homes, understated simplicity is generally the watchword for this look. The

emphasis is on quality and durability but without ostentation.

The New England region offers a great deal in the way of materials to incorporate into any interiors.

Slate and granite are popular as an alternative to wooden flooring, and are used in bathrooms and

kitchens. The seashell motif is really popular too. This can be represented in a display form or

incorporated into wood carvings and also on wallpapers and fabric patterns. A New England look places

emphasis on being local and authentic. For this reason you are most likely to see displays of beautiful

dried driftwood or local flowers, rather than anything more exotic. One quirky exception to this rule is

the pineapple motif, which signifies welcome.

An easy way to copy a traditional New England design is to bring a collection of some sort into a scheme.

Old books, ship models, family memorabilia or items associated with travel such as vintage travel

brochures or suitcases will enhance any New England look.

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