When embarking on a design project, one of the first and most important steps is understanding your design style. Knowing what resonates with you helps to guide design decisions, ensuring that the end result reflects your personality and preferences. But with so many options out there, from minimalist to maximalist, traditional to modern, finding your personal style can be daunting. Here’s our guide to help you determine what your design style is and bring clarity to your vision.
1.Look for Inspiration (But not too much!)
You can begin by gathering inspiration. Platforms like Pinterest, Instagram, and design magazines are great starting points, though can be overwhelming and this is why we say not too much. So to help with overload when browsing these sources, ask yourself:
Which rooms or designs make you feel comfortable and at home?
What color schemes or textures do you naturally gravitate toward?
Do you prefer more neutral tones or bold, vibrant colors?
The key here is to look beyond fleeting trends and focus on what you can envision living with long-term.
2. Evaluate Your Lifestyle
A design style isn't just about aesthetics—it's about practicality. Consider how you live and what your daily routine looks like:
Do you have a bustling household with kids or pets that might require durable, easy-to-clean materials?
Are you someone who entertains frequently and needs spaces that are conducive to hosting?
Do you work from home and need a calm, organized environment?
By taking stock of your lifestyle, you can narrow down design styles that will work best for you. For example, a minimalist design might appeal to someone seeking simplicity, while a bohemian style might suit someone who thrives on eclectic, lively spaces.
3. Identify Key Elements You Love
Once you've gathered inspiration and thought about your lifestyle, start identifying key design elements that draw you in:
Furniture:Do you like clean lines and functional pieces (modern or Scandinavian) or ornate, detailed traditional furniture and/or antiques?
Textures: Are you more drawn to soft, layered textures (bohemian or eclectic) or sleek, polished finishes (contemporary or minimalist)?
Patterns & Colors: Do you prefer the calmness of neutral palettes or the energy of bright, contrasting colors?
Art: What type of art do you gravitate to? Bold and colorful? Calm landscapes?
If you keep seeing wood tones, for instance, you may lean towards rustic or farmhouse styles, while lots of glass and metals might indicate a preference for modern or industrial.
4. Consider the Architecture of Your Space
The style of your home can influence your design choices. A mid-century modern home might naturally lend itself to that style, while a craftsman house could inspire more traditional or transitional elements. You don't have to be confined by the architecture, but incorporating elements that complement your home’s structure will help the design feel cohesive.
5. Mix and Match
Your design style doesn’t have to fit neatly into one category. In fact, many of the best designs blend multiple styles. You might love the clean lines of modern design but enjoy the warmth of rustic decor. Mixing styles can add depth and interest to your home. A balanced mix of complementary styles can make a space feel more personal and less like a cookie-cutter design.
6. Test the Waters
Once you have a sense of your style, start small. Test your ideas with accessories or small furniture pieces before making larger purchases or committing to permanent changes. This allows you to experiment and refine your style without feeling locked in.
Popular Design Styles and Their Characteristics
Here’s a brief overview of some common design styles:
Modern: Clean lines, neutral colors, minimal ornamentation.
Traditional: Rich colors, classic patterns, ornate furniture.
Mid-century Modern: Sleek lines, organic shapes, a mix of materials like wood and metal.
Bohemian:Eclectic mix of patterns, colors, and textures, layered decor.
Scandinavian:Minimalist, functional, light colors, natural materials.
Industrial: Raw, exposed materials, neutral tones, utilitarian design.
Rustic: Natural elements, warm tones, cozy and lived-in feel.
Determining your design style is a process of self-discovery. Take your time, explore different options, and don’t be afraid to experiment. Remember, your space should reflect your individuality and make you feel comfortable. Ultimately, the best design style is one that feels like “you.”
By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to curating a space that is uniquely yours. Of course we are always here to help you figure it out too.