Five Popular Interior Design Styles

Modern, traditional, industrial, chic, bohemian and the list go on and on. A major challenge students face during the initial period of interior designing is the lack of understanding/vocabulary that helps them define specific spaces of interior design.  The industry has transformed and welcomed new forms of designs that requires one to update their knowledge every now and then. With numerous unique design styles, we understand that it can be quite intimidating and daunting. While some may enjoy diverse elements of styling, it is important for one to have a basic understanding. One of the good starting points could be reading the different styles and understanding which form of style could fit where. Hence, this blog explores some popular interior design styles that you can familiarize yourself with. 

Modern

This is quite a broad terminology that often refers to a space that is neat, tidy and has crisp lines. This form of design has a simple colour palette and uses materials such as glass, metal and steel. Modern spaces are defined by their simplicity in each element, including furniture, supporting décor and colours. Many designers will regard this form of style to be sleek when people do not like clutter or accessories that are not over the top.

Contemporary

Many people misinterpret and often call modern looks contemporary and vice-versa. However, contemporary is a slightly different kind as it includes design elements that are new and relevant to today’s general, unlike modern that include both traditional and new aspects. In short, modern designs are interpreted as the ones that have been used in the 20th century and strictly adhere to it. On the other hand, contemporary designs are more fluid and it often includes decors that do not specifically fit to a particular style. For instance, contemporary styles will include curving lines whereas modern style would not. 

Minimalist

This concept is one of the most popular ones worldwide. It takes inspiration from modern and simplifies it further. In this particular design form, you will see colour palettes that are more neutral and airy, the furnishing will be much more streamlined and simple. It is almost like nothing that is excessively flamboyant or pompous can enter its arena. While many may prefer other forms, this gives a sense of sophistication and elegance that other design forms miss. They are often structured by straight crisp lines and great functionality.

Industrial

As the name implies, this form of design takes inspiration from a warehouse or even an urban loft. In these designs, you will find an unfinished rawness in many of its aspects. Explored brick, ductwork and wood are some of the common aspects of industrial design spaces. One of the iconic examples of such spaces would be a renovated loft that was previously an industrial building. They often include high ceilings, old timber, metal light fixtures dangling and very little functional furniture.

Scandinavian

These kinds of designs pay homage to the simplicity represented in Nordic countries. Scandinavian furniture designs feel like a work of art, although, it is only simple and understated. There is immense furniture functionality along with many interesting lines that have a sculptural influence. There are many other common characteristics such as all-white colour palette, incorporation of natural décor such as wood, enameled aluminum, steel and presence of wide plank flooring.

Like what you are reading? Well, along with learning these different forms of design, you will delve deeper in the art of interior design and how you can master it. With our Professional Diploma in Interior Design, you will earn an international qualification from London College of Arts which will support you to venture successfully into this creative industry. For more information on this program and admission procedure, contact us at +9714 397 0095 or

drop an email at hello@capital.ac.ae