20 popular interior design styles in 2023

Interior design is a vast and ever-evolving field, with numerous styles that cater to different preferences and aesthetics. Whether you're looking to switch up your current style or embark on a new design journey, understanding the various interior design styles can help you find the look that resonates with you. In this ultimate guide, we'll explore the top 20 decorating styles for 2023, decoding each style's distinctive elements and characteristics.

Transitional Interior Design Style

The transitional design style is a popular choice for those seeking a balance between traditional elegance and contemporary flair. It blends the best of both worlds, offering a harmonious blend of classic and modern elements. With transitional design, you can enjoy the timeless appeal of traditional furniture and the clean lines of contemporary pieces.

One of the key features of transitional interiors is the focus on simplicity. Accessories are kept to a minimum, allowing the furniture and textiles to take center stage. Area rugs, throw pillows, and blankets can be used to add texture and warmth to the space. The mix of masculine and feminine elements, such as curved furniture and finishes like wood, rattan, steel, and lacquer, creates an interesting and welcoming home design.

Transitional design is versatile and can be incorporated into various rooms, from entryways to living areas. Its ability to strike a balance between different styles makes it a go-to choice for those who want a comfortable and stylish home that reflects their unique taste.

Traditional Interior Design Style

Traditional interior design is a timeless style that draws inspiration from 18th and 19th Century England and France. It exudes elegance and sophistication, featuring ornately detailed furniture made from dark wood. Traditional interiors often showcase expensive textiles like silk, velvet, and linen, which can be found in upholstery, window treatments, and other decor elements.

Fabrics in traditional interiors feature a variety of patterns, including damask, florals, stripes, and plaids. Crystal chandeliers are a common feature, adding a touch of glam and European influence to the space. Traditional homes typically have a neutral color palette, with pops of color introduced through oil paintings or floral arrangements. Matching furniture sets are often used to maintain consistency and create a cohesive look.

Traditional interior design is perfect for those who appreciate the timeless beauty of classic furniture and the richness of traditional materials. It creates a warm and inviting atmosphere that pays homage to the past while remaining relevant in modern times.

Modern Interior Design Style

Often confused with contemporary design, modern interior design refers to a specific time period and design style that emerged in the early to mid-20th century. It is characterized by clean lines, sleek surfaces, and a minimalist approach. Modern interiors embrace the use of materials like metal, chrome, and glass, giving them a sleek and polished appearance.

In modern interior design, decor is kept minimal, with an emphasis on functionality and simplicity. Knick-knacks are eschewed in favor of art as the main decor element. Bold accents, such as colorful artwork and furniture, are used to add interest to an otherwise neutral space.

Neutral color palettes are prevalent in modern design, with textured fabrics adding depth and visual interest. The combination of form and function, along with the mix of materials, makes modern interiors a perfect choice for those who appreciate the beauty of simplicity and clean lines.
 

Eclectic Interior Design Style

The eclectic design style is a high-energy collection of carefully selected pieces that come together to create a culture-rich interior. It is a style that encourages mixing and matching patterns, colors, and textures to create a unique and vibrant space. However, there is a fine line between a well-layered and collected look and a cluttered and distracting one.

To achieve a balanced eclectic interior, it's important to stick to a neutral color palette and use a select few accent colors to bring in a worldly vibe. The ideal eclectic interior strikes a perfect blend of old and new, combining vintage and modern elements seamlessly.

Contrary to popular belief, eclectic interiors do not require strict order or matching decor. Instead, they celebrate the beauty of mixing and matching different styles, creating a one-of-a-kind space that reflects the homeowner's personality and travels.
 

Contemporary Interior Design Style

As one of the most ever-evolving interior design styles, contemporary design refers to anything of the present moment. It borrows elements from various time periods and design styles, creating an environment that is both current and timeless. Contemporary interiors are sleek and simple, featuring detailed moldings, open layouts, and a focus on light and airy spaces.

Materials like metal and glass are commonly used in contemporary design due to their light-reflecting properties. Neutral color palettes are prevalent, with textured fabrics adding depth and interest. Contemporary interiors strike a balance between classic elegance and forward-thinking innovation, making them a popular choice for those who want a blend of retro charm and modern flair.

Minimalist Interior Design Style

Minimalist design is inspired by the Japanese philosophy of "less is more." It focuses on simplicity, clean lines, and uncluttered spaces. Minimalist interiors often have a neutral color scheme, with primary colors used sparingly as accent colors. Patterns are minimal to nonexistent, and texture plays a crucial role in adding visual interest.

Functional furniture is the cornerstone of minimalist interior design, with storage solutions integrated into the design. Coffee tables that double as hidden storage and other creative solutions are commonly used. The emphasis on empty space creates a sense of calm and serenity, making minimalist interiors perfect for those who appreciate a clutter-free and peaceful environment.
 

Mid-Century Modern Interior Design Style

The mid-century modern design style originated in the 1950s and '60s in post-war America. It aimed to break free from traditional design barriers and embrace the modern era. Mid-century modern interiors feature clean lines, seamless flow between indoor and outdoor spaces, and a mix of rich and luxurious woods like teak, rosewood, and walnut.

Mustard yellow, chartreuse, and avocado are popular accent colors used in mid-century modern interiors. The revival of this design style in recent years has made it more accessible than ever, with iconic furniture pieces like the Eames lounger and the egg chair still being used in homes today.

The enduring appeal of mid-century modern design lies in its ability to strike a balance between timeless elegance and forward-thinking innovation. Its retro charm and contemporary flair make it a go-to style for those seeking a unique and stylish home.

Bohemian Interior Design Style

Bohemian design is a free-spirited aesthetic that draws inspiration from different cultures and artistic expressions. It is characterized by bold patterns, bright colors, and a laid-back atmosphere. When you step into a bohemian-style home, you immediately feel transported to another culture, with trinkets and mementos displayed from travels.

Bohemian interiors embrace the mixing and matching of patterns and colors, creating a vibrant and eclectic space. Modern boho style has also emerged, incorporating elements like animal hides, metallic accents, and rich wood to modernize the collected style.

One of the unique aspects of bohemian style is its ability to use unconventional items in creative ways. Hanging a vintage rug or carved wood on the wall as artwork is just one example of the fresh and unique approaches that bohemian design offers.

Modern Farmhouse Interior Design Style

Modern farmhouse interior design combines the charm of traditional farmhouse design with modern elements. It features wide plank floors, open concept living, and sleek lighting, while still paying homage to traditional farmhouse aesthetics. Shiplap walls, barn doors, and mixing metals are common identifiers of this style.

In modern farmhouse interiors, a connection to nature is essential. Raw wood elements and greenery can be found in every room, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The color palette is typically neutral, with deep navy, sage green, or burnt orange used as accent colors to add a pop of vibrancy.

The modern farmhouse style offers a fresh take on traditional design, blending rustic charm with contemporary elements. It is perfect for those who appreciate the cozy and welcoming feel of farmhouse interiors but also desire a more modern and collected space.

Shabby Chic Interior Design Style

Shabby chic interior design originated in the 18th century and has transformed into the vintage-loving style it is today. It embraces the beauty of weathered furniture and the elegance of feminine touches. Shabby chic interiors often feature painted or distressed furniture, pale color palettes with floral patterns, and whitewashed floors and walls.

Crystal chandeliers are a common feature in shabby chic interiors, adding a touch of glamour to the space. This design style captures an elegant and cozy feeling, creating a home that feels lived-in and inviting.

Shabby chic style is perfect for those who appreciate the charm of vintage furniture and the softness of feminine elements. It creates a romantic and nostalgic atmosphere, evoking a sense of serenity and tranquility.

Coastal Interior Design Style

Coastal interior design is inspired by the natural environment of the seaside, creating a space that mimics the colors and textures of the coast. Unlike nautical decor, coastal style focuses on creating a bright and breezy atmosphere that feels like an extension of the outdoors.

Neutral colors like whites and beiges are paired with pops of blues to resemble the sand and sea. Window treatments are minimal, allowing natural light to flood the space. Blue glass vases, striped wallpaper, and abstract paintings are used to evoke the coastal feeling.

Comfortable and lived-in furniture, such as painted and distressed pieces paired with wicker or jute, adds to the coastal vibe. Indoor plants are a must-have, as they connect the space to nature and enhance the overall sense of tranquility.

Hollywood Glam Interior Design Style

Hollywood glam interior design is all about creating a luxurious and glamorous space. Originating in California during Hollywood's golden age in the 1930s, this style is characterized by high contrast color combinations, over-the-top chandeliers, and high gloss or mirrored furniture.

Contrasting colors like hot pink and green, or black and white, add to the high-glamour vibe of Hollywood glam interiors. Foyers or entrance living rooms often embrace an air of elevated hospitality, making them perfect for hosting glamorous soirees.

Hollywood glam interiors exude opulence and sophistication, focusing on both the homeowner and their guests. It is a style that demands attention and creates a sense of grandeur in every space.

Southwestern Interior Design Style

Southwestern interior design draws inspiration from the soft lines of adobe houses, Spanish textiles, ironwork, and nature. It embraces the colors of the American desert, with rust, terracotta, and cactus green being popular choices. Furniture in Southwestern interiors tends to be on the heavy side, often featuring thick legs and bulky finishes.

Texture is a key element in Southwestern design, with leather and suede commonly used for upholstery. This style has also started to blend with other design elements, such as modern and boho, creating a unique and eclectic look.

Southwestern interior design is perfect for those who appreciate the warmth and earthiness of desert-inspired aesthetics. It creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere that reflects the beauty of nature.

Rustic Interior Design Style

Rustic interior design celebrates the simplicity and effortless beauty of nature. It features natural materials, industrial touches, and farmhouse charm. Wood is a prominent element in rustic interiors, often softened with cowhides and sheepskin to create a cozy and inviting feel.

Fabrics in rustic interiors are simple and don't have loud patterns, while texture is crucial in adding visual interest. Unexpected additions like industrial pendant lights add a touch of sophistication to the space.

Industrial Interior Design Style

Industrial interior design has its roots in repurposing old factories into residential spaces. It embraces exposed pipes and beams, brick and concrete, and raw and unfinished furniture. This unique style has a masculine edge that is balanced with ample texture and cozy textiles.

Oversized artwork and antique furniture are commonly used in industrial interiors. The combination of raw materials and vintage elements creates a space that is both rugged and inviting.

French Country Interior Design Style

French country interior design is a sophisticated blend of shabby chic, farmhouse, and traditional styles. It features timeless antique furniture pieces juxtaposed with modern prints. Natural materials like stone, wood, and wrought iron are commonly used, adding character to the space.

Exposed beams, distressed finishes, and raw textures contribute to the charm of French country interiors. Soft, muted colors dominate the palette, creating a serene and inviting atmosphere.

Scandinavian Interior Design Style

Scandinavian design is characterized by its light, airy, and organic aesthetics. Ashy-colored woods, white walls, and large mirrors are key features of Nordic spaces. The Danish concept of hygge, which emphasizes coziness and comfort, is also an essential aspect of Scandinavian interiors.

Scandinavian design embraces clean lines, minimalist forms, and functional designs. Quality craftsmanship and attention to detail are highly valued. Open spaces and balanced arrangements contribute to the harmonious living environment that Scandinavian interiors strive to create.

Mediterranean Interior Design Style

Mediterranean interior design draws inspiration from countries around the Mediterranean Sea, such as Spain, Greece, and Italy. Arches, columns, and interior balconies are common architectural features in Mediterranean homes. Rich wood tones and ornate details characterize the furniture in this style.

The color palette of Mediterranean interiors reflects the hues of the Mediterranean landscape, with terracotta, ochre, deep blues, and sandy neutrals prevalent. Decorative tiles and mosaics add traditional charm and visual interest to the space.
 

Art Deco Interior Design Style

Art Deco interior design originated in France and made its way to the US in the early 20th century. It is characterized by its use of metal, glass, and geometric shapes. Oversized furniture and high contrast color combinations were popular choices during this time.

Glass accents, mirrored surfaces, and elaborate chandeliers contribute to the luxurious atmosphere of Art Deco interiors. Exotic and luxurious materials like lacquered finishes, exotic woods, and shagreen or animal prints were commonly incorporated into furniture and decor.

Asian Zen Interior Design Style

Asian Zen interiors are rooted in contemporary design principles, focusing on sleek lines, interesting shapes, and a relaxing atmosphere. Nature is a key element in Asian interior design, with references to natural elements creating a sense of tranquility.

Asymmetrical layouts and circles are prevalent in Asian interiors. Curtain walls and door panels are often used to separate larger spaces and provide privacy. The color palette is drawn strictly from nature to maintain a serene and calm vibe.

In conclusion, the world of interior design offers a vast array of styles to suit every taste and preference. From the transitional elegance of traditional design to the sleek minimalism of modern interiors, there is a style for everyone. By understanding the distinctive elements of each design style, you can create a home that reflects your unique personality and creates a space you love to live in. So go ahead, explore the possibilities, and embark on your own interior design journey.