The Art of Interior Styles
In my 3rd design diary, I talked about how to keep an aesthetically pleasing interior. As promised, in this diary, I will be diving into what elements make up those styles and why they have remained beautiful for centuries. You will notice that many styles contain the same materials, but I believe it's a matter of how you use them and where. Here are just a few our world has come across.
Traditional style:
Traditional never goes out of style. It's been inspired for some time and is quite popular today for many home designers. It's a mix of classic and modern elements (perfect for those who don’t know what they like). You can keep a traditional interior by adding warmth with wood in your space such as furniture pieces or stained cabinetry. You can also use colors such as brown, green, and blue, but make sure they are toned down almost like a dirty brush went over the colors (1st design diary on paint colors here). I say the key to creating a traditional style is to add timeless pieces such as old art, wood dining table, and brass elements. Truth be told, you can go 100 ways with this style, but those elements are some of my favorites.
Materials for this style:
Velvets | Wood | Leather | Marble | Linen | Silver | Brass
Types of furniture pieces:
Wood credenza | Sofa with leg details | Velvet or leather chairs | Wall sconces
Modern style:
This is the style that is currently trending since 2000 and now. I have seen this growing up, I am a witness to it. Modern styles have simplicity and are minimal. I always think of black, white, and gray when modern interiors come to mind, but of course, you can always make this style colorful. I like to think that the owners of a space like this just have enough to function and admire and that's all they need.
Materials for this style:
Concrete | Ceramic | Leather | Plush fabric | Mixed metals
Types of furniture pieces:
Long sofa | Oversized coffee table | Linear pendants | Leather and metal chairs
Mid-Century Style:
This style is so fun and funky. Usually with low ceilings, long halls, many windows, and lots of angles. This was a style I grew to love learning in college. Where are my Frank Lloyd Wright friends at? I always think that Mid-Century exteriors are abstract homes for the art/design world. You just never know what’s inside. I think the modern style people would probably find themselves loving this one too.
Materials for this style:
Metals | Leather | Wood | Glass | More glass
Types of furniture pieces:
Oversized sofas | Pendant as the Focal Point | Minimal decor | Floating credenza
Spanish Style:
This style is one I grew up seeing, and of course, is in my family. I love the name Acienda. It's the word my grandma taught me that means a large estate, but to me, it meant a beautiful want. It reminds me of a relaxing desert mixed with a mid-century style. Spanish style architecture can be found to have arches, large windows with shutters, terracotta roofs, and colorful tile to bring in accents (Ex: stairs).
Materials for this style:
Terracotta | Dark Wood | Stucco | Pattern Tiles | Stone | Brick pavers
Types of furniture pieces:
Patterned rugs | Wood tables | Neutral sofas | Leather Ottomans | Candelabra Chandelier
European Cottage Style:
This style is what I think of when I see a reel on social media about someone living in the countryside with stone walls, brown beams, and casement windows. I only dream of staying at a home like this someday in Europe. This style has old elements that seem naturally put together and beautifully worn. European styles themselves are common and can be found in various neighborhoods in most cities. Their interiors are light and airy, a safe place for natural light to be welcomed in.
Materials for this style:
Wood | Ceramic | Marble | Brass | Stone | Brick
Types of furniture pieces:
Wood chairs | Light and airy sofa and chairs | | Wood dining tables | Hanging shade
Parisian Style:
I have always admired the detail that most Parisian pieces carry with them. I admire this style because it looks like much time and thought was put into it. Old pieces are hand carved with overwhelming detail. It’s something that almost seems like a lost art. Parisian interiors can be seen with wainscoting wrapped around the walls, and detailed trim on the ceiling, helping the perfect chandelier make its statement.
Materials for this style:
Cast Stone | Marble | Silk | Rattan | Wood
Types of furniture pieces:
Cresenza | Velvet Chaise | Settee with fringe detail | Mirror | French Dresser
Equestrian Style:
The style I love enough to have in my own home. Think of Ralph Lauren, mixed with all things sporty, plaid, and leather. I always imagined it would be great for a growing teen's room. For my friends who especially live on West Texas ranch land, this style is designed for you. It is versatile for both masculine and feminine friends, I think it's why I love using it. And of course, it pairs well with all things blue and white.
Materials for this style:
Wood | Ceramic | Brass | Silver | Bronze | Leather | Stone | Brick | Metal
Types of furniture pieces:
Windsor chair | Wood table | Candelabra chandelier | Leather chair | Tufted Chesterfield sofa
Baroque Style:
If you’ve seen pictures or stepped foot into the Palace of Versailles, then you know the magic and wonder it has on the interior. Most of us probably don’t live in a beautiful palace, but we can always add elements to our homes inspired by it. Add some gold mirrors and marble floors. BTW: Did you know that you can now stay at the Palace of Versailles? Adding to my bucket list.
Materials for this style:
Marble | Stone | Mirror | Glass | Wood
Types of furniture pieces:
French Commode | French Open Arm Chair | Louis XV Cabriole legs | Gold mirror | Chandelier
