In the realm of interior design, the beauty lies in the diversity of styles that cater to various tastes, personalities, and preferences. Whether you prefer the timeless elegance of traditional décor, the sleek minimalism of contemporary design, or the cozy warmth of rustic aesthetics, there’s a home decor style to suit every individual. We understand that it can be hard to know how to express your design style, or even how to know what you like. Of course in the end, you can be unique, mix-and-match styles, and create a space that reflects your unique design. But we wanted to give you a guide to start.
Traditional
Classic and refined, traditional decor draws inspiration from European elegance and timeless sophistication. Rich woods, intricate patterns, and luxurious fabrics like velvet and silk are hallmark features of this style. Furniture pieces often boast ornate detailing, and symmetry plays a significant role in creating a sense of balance and harmony within the space. Traditional homes exude a sense of warmth and familiarity, making them inviting retreats for both homeowners and guests alike.
*photo’s cutesy of an Airbnb that we helped our clients purchase in Columbia, PA. Book your stay here.
Contemporary
Clean lines, sleek surfaces, and a focus on function define contemporary home decor. This style embraces simplicity and minimalism, with an emphasis on open spaces and natural light. Neutral color palettes, such as whites, grays, and blacks, dominate contemporary interiors, while pops of bold color or abstract art add visual interest. Furniture designs are often innovative and feature materials like glass, metal, and polished wood. Contemporary homes exude a sense of modernity and sophistication, making them ideal for those with a penchant for understated elegance.
Contemporary design flowed out of the mid century design style of the ’60’s and was popular until about the 1980’s. Since then it is stil used in some places but in our area (Lancaster, Chester, and Berks counties) a much more classic traditional style is often preferred like the modern farmhouse style. Mid century modern is also very popular however for anyone wanting to be slightly more edgy. We have not done any contemporary design projects, however we have sold a few contemporary homes.
Mid-Century Modern
Inspired by the design aesthetics of the 1950s and 1960s, mid-century modern decor is characterized by its clean lines, organic forms, and functional simplicity. Iconic furniture pieces, such as the Eames Lounge Chair and the Noguchi Coffee Table, epitomize this style’s timeless appeal. Natural materials like wood, leather, and fiberglass are prominent, while geometric patterns and vibrant hues infuse spaces with energy and personality. Mid-century modern interiors effortlessly blend retro charm with contemporary sensibilities, creating spaces that feel both nostalgic and current.
*We re-decorated our own Airbnb with a Mid-Century Modern flair. Check it out and book your stay here.
*Throwback photos to our Louise Avenue project – design inspired by the ’50s with a modern take.
Industrial
Industrial decor takes cues from urban lofts and converted warehouses, embracing raw materials and exposed structural elements. Exposed brick walls, concrete floors, and metal accents are common features of industrial interiors. Furniture pieces often showcase rugged materials like reclaimed wood and distressed leather, while utilitarian fixtures add to the style’s functional aesthetic. Neutral color palettes with touches of industrial-inspired hues like gray, black, and brown create a sense of urban grit and authenticity. Industrial spaces exude a sense of edgy coolness, making them perfect for those with an affinity for urban living.
*There are photos of our own attic Airbnb when it was decorated with the Industrial style in mind. We have since redone it and you can check out the new design here. Or check it out in person and book it here. You can also read our update blog about it here.
*A fun throwback to when we designed Cafe One Eight with an Industrial theme in mind.
Rustic
Rooted in the charm of the countryside, rustic decor celebrates natural beauty and rugged simplicity. Warm, earthy tones dominate the color palette, while natural materials like wood, stone, and wrought iron infuse spaces with warmth and texture. Furniture pieces often feature distressed finishes and handcrafted details, lending a sense of authenticity and craftsmanship to the decor. Cozy textiles such as wool rugs, plaid throws, and faux fur accents add to the inviting ambiance of rustic interiors. Whether nestled in a cabin in the woods or an urban apartment, rustic homes evoke a sense of comfort and nostalgia, providing a welcome respite from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
Bohemian
Free-spirited and eclectic, bohemian decor embraces an artistic and unconventional approach to design. Layered textures, vibrant colors, and global influences characterize this style, creating spaces that feel vibrant, exotic, and full of personality. Mix-and-match furniture pieces, vintage finds, and handmade treasures imbue bohemian interiors with a sense of whimsy and individuality. Plants and botanical elements add a touch of nature, while textiles like kilim rugs, embroidered throws, and colorful tapestries infuse spaces with warmth and charm. Bohemian homes are a reflection of the unique tastes and experiences of their inhabitants, making them truly one-of-a-kind retreats.
*As we mentioned above we redid our Attic Airbnb and decorated it in a new Boho themed style. Check it out here.
French Country
This design style embodies a charming blend of elegance and rustic simplicity, drawing inspiration from the countryside landscapes of rural France. Characterized by its warm and inviting atmosphere, this style embraces natural elements such as aged wood, stone, and wrought iron, creating a cozy and lived-in feel. Soft, muted color palettes dominated by shades of cream, soft blues, and gentle greens evoke a sense of tranquility and serenity. Textured fabrics like linen and cotton, often adorned with floral or toile patterns, add to the cozy ambiance. Furniture pieces are typically graceful and slightly weathered, with ornate carvings and curved lines lending a touch of romance. Accents such as vintage pottery, delicate porcelain, and antique chandeliers infuse the space with a timeless charm, while fresh flowers and greenery bring life into the home.
*Throwback photos to our Broad Street House a design inspired by French Cottages with a modern take.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the world of home decor styles is as diverse as the people who live in these spaces. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless elegance of traditional design, the sleek minimalism of contemporary interiors, or the cozy warmth of rustic aesthetics, there’s a style to suit every taste and preference. But it’s not designed to box you in or to create cookie-cutter houses. As you can see from our own projects, one design style can be interpreted very differently from one project to the next. Feel free to mix-and-match your own design styles. And of course, this is not all the styles that exist. If you would like to share your ideas and start your journey on your own home renovation, we can help you! Contact us here and tell us about your project – and don’t worry we can help you put into words the style that you are looking for.
