What’s My Interior Design Style? A Complete Guide to Finding Yours
Confused About Your Design Style? You’re Not Alone
Have you ever saved a dozen dreamy living rooms on Pinterest, only to realize… none of them look alike? One has clean modern lines, another has cozy farmhouse vibes, and a third feels like a colorful bohemian retreat. So which one is your style?
As an interior designer, I see this all the time. Most people aren’t 100% “one thing.” Instead, they’re a mix. The good news? Once you know the key design styles (and what makes them tick), you’ll see patterns emerge—and your home will start to feel more cohesive and intentional.
Why Knowing Your Interior Design Style Actually Matters
Understanding your interior design style isn’t about fitting into a box—it’s about clarity. Here’s why it matters:
Saves money: You stop buying random pieces that don’t work together.
Simplifies decisions: Picking a sofa or dining table feels less overwhelming and more exciting.
Creates harmony: Your rooms flow together instead of looking mismatched.
Supports your lifestyle: A style that reflects how you live makes your home more functional and welcoming.
The Most Popular Interior Design Styles Explained
Here’s where we break down the big players—what each style looks like, how it feels, and how to know if it’s right for you.
Modern Interior Design
Modern design is all about simplicity, function, and clean lines. Born from the early-to-mid 20th-century design movement, modern interiors focus on form following function. Furniture pieces often feature smooth surfaces, neutral tones, and materials like glass, chrome, and steel. Spaces are uncluttered, with plenty of open floor area that emphasizes the architecture as much as the furniture itself.
If you love order and minimal distractions, modern design might be your match. It works especially well in open-concept homes, where sightlines matter. A modern living room, for instance, might feature a sleek sectional sofa, a glass coffee table, and large windows left bare or with simple roller shades. It’s polished, timeless, and designed for people who love balance and clarity in their environment.
Contemporary Style
Unlike modern, which refers to a defined time period, contemporary style is fluid—it reflects what’s current right now. Today, that means organic curves, sculptural furniture, and a mix of natural materials like stone, wood, and linen. Contemporary interiors are often light and airy, with neutral palettes accented by bold artwork or statement pieces.
What makes contemporary appealing is its adaptability. Because it evolves with the times, it doesn’t feel stuck in the past, nor does it chase fleeting fads. A contemporary living room might pair a cream-colored curved sofa with a statement marble coffee table and oversized abstract art. If you like your home to feel fresh and “of the moment,” contemporary could be your style.
Traditional Interior Design
Traditional design draws heavily from 18th- and 19th-century European influences. It’s elegant, classic, and timeless, with an emphasis on symmetry and formality. Expect dark wood furniture, rich fabrics like velvet or silk, detailed moldings, and layered accessories such as lamps, artwork, and rugs. Traditional homes often feel warm, welcoming, and refined.
A traditional dining room, for example, might feature a polished mahogany table, wingback chairs, a crystal chandelier, and floor-to-ceiling draperies. If you crave a sense of history and sophistication in your home—and don’t mind a bit of formality—traditional design will feel right at home.
Farmhouse Style
Farmhouse design is rooted in simplicity, comfort, and practicality, but it’s far from boring. Think rustic wood beams, shiplap walls, galvanized metal accents, and cozy textiles. The farmhouse palette tends to lean neutral—lots of whites, beiges, and soft grays—often warmed up with natural wood tones.
Modern farmhouse, popularized by Joanna Gaines, mixes those rustic elements with more polished finishes. A farmhouse kitchen might have shaker cabinets painted white, an apron-front sink, and open shelving with collected pottery. If your heart leans toward cozy, casual spaces that feel inviting for family and friends, farmhouse could be the perfect match.
Bohemian Style
Bohemian, or “boho,” is the rebel of design styles. It’s eclectic, colorful, and all about layering textures and patterns. Picture vibrant rugs, woven wall hangings, eclectic artwork, and plants—lots of plants. Furniture tends to be low-slung, relaxed, and often vintage or handmade.
Bohemian spaces reflect individuality and creativity. A boho bedroom might include a mix of patterned pillows, a rattan headboard, mismatched nightstands, and global-inspired décor collected over time. If you thrive on creativity, freedom, and a touch of wanderlust, bohemian design will make your home feel like a true expression of you.
Mid-Century Modern
Mid-century modern design, which emerged in the 1950s and 1960s, is known for its clean lines, warm woods, and functional furniture with a retro flair. Pieces often feature tapered legs, simple silhouettes, and materials like walnut or teak. The color palette ranges from muted neutrals to pops of mustard, teal, and orange.
What people love about mid-century modern is its balance between form and function. It’s stylish without being fussy. A typical mid-century living room might feature a walnut credenza, an Eames-inspired lounge chair, and a low-profile sofa. If you love timeless furniture that’s practical and chic, mid-century modern is a strong contender.
Transitional Style
Transitional design blends the best of traditional and modern. It’s neither too ornate nor too stark, striking a comfortable balance. Neutral color palettes dominate—think creams, grays, and soft taupes—often accented with textures like linen, leather, and wood.
A transitional living room might feature a clean-lined sofa paired with a classic tufted armchair, all pulled together with a neutral rug and simple artwork. If you like the elegance of traditional but crave the simplicity of modern, transitional offers a happy middle ground that feels timeless.
Scandinavian Style
Scandinavian design emphasizes simplicity, function, and a connection to nature. Think light wood floors, white walls, cozy textiles, and lots of natural light. The look is minimal but warm, with a focus on hygge (the Danish concept of coziness).
A Scandinavian living room might feature a pale gray sofa, a sheepskin throw, and simple oak furniture. Plants and natural materials soften the minimalism. If you’re drawn to clean spaces that still feel warm and inviting, Scandinavian design is a perfect fit.
Minimalist Style
Minimalism takes “less is more” to heart. Spaces are pared down to the essentials, often featuring monochromatic palettes, sleek furniture, and uncluttered surfaces. But minimalism isn’t cold—it’s about intentionality and quality over quantity.
A minimalist bedroom, for instance, might have a low-profile platform bed, crisp white bedding, and one statement artwork on the wall. If you love order, calm, and simplicity—and you’re not afraid to declutter—minimalist design might be your style.
Coastal Style
Coastal interiors bring the beach inside, with light colors, breezy fabrics, and natural textures like jute, rattan, and driftwood. It’s not about seashell décor, but rather capturing the relaxed, airy vibe of the ocean.
A coastal-inspired living room might feature slipcovered sofas in white or light blue, woven baskets, sheer curtains, and accents of sea glass or soft aqua. If you want your home to feel like a permanent vacation, coastal style delivers that breezy, effortless charm.
Industrial Style
Industrial design celebrates raw, unfinished materials—think exposed brick, metal beams, and concrete floors. It’s edgy and urban, with a focus on repurposed and utilitarian pieces. Furniture is often oversized, with materials like steel, leather, and reclaimed wood.
An industrial loft, for example, might feature an open floor plan with exposed ductwork, metal pendant lights, and a reclaimed wood dining table. If you’re drawn to grit, character, and bold design choices, industrial style could be your match.
How to Discover Your Interior Design Style
1. Look in Your Closet
Your wardrobe is often the easiest place to spot your interior design style hiding in plain sight. Do you gravitate toward tailored, structured pieces in black and white? That might hint at a modern or minimalist design style. If your closet is full of flowy fabrics, bold patterns, or embroidered details, you might feel more at home in a bohemian-inspired space.
Colors matter, too. A closet filled with neutrals and denim suggests you’ll probably enjoy a Scandinavian or coastal color palette in your home—soft whites, sandy tones, and shades of blue. Meanwhile, if you’ve got jewel-toned dresses or richly textured jackets, a traditional or eclectic interior might be your sweet spot. Fashion and interiors both reflect personal taste, so use your wardrobe as a mood board for your home.
2. Check Your Pinterest or Saved Folders
Most people save images instinctively without realizing patterns emerge. Scroll through your saved pins, screenshots, or Instagram folders—do you see more clean-lined sofas and uncluttered spaces, or layered rugs and vintage finds? Are the kitchens you save filled with marble countertops and sleek cabinetry (modern), or farmhouse sinks and open shelves with rustic pottery (farmhouse design)?
Notice recurring furniture silhouettes, color palettes, and textures. Do curved sofas keep popping up? That points toward contemporary design. Are you drawn to light oak flooring and minimal décor? That’s very Scandinavian. Paying attention to these repeated elements will help you zero in on your authentic style instead of chasing random trends.
3. Think About How You Want to Feel at Home
Style isn’t only about what you see—it’s about how you want to feel in your space. Do you want your home to feel cozy and grounded (farmhouse, traditional, or bohemian), or sleek and energizing (modern, minimalist, or industrial)? Maybe you want breezy, light-filled spaces that evoke a vacation vibe (coastal design).
Ask yourself: Do I want my home to help me relax after a long day, or do I want it to energize and inspire me? The answer influences everything from your color scheme (calming neutrals vs. bold, vibrant hues) to your furniture choices (plush sectional sofas vs. angular mid-century chairs). Your design style should support your lifestyle and emotional needs as much as your aesthetic preferences.
4. Experiment in Small Ways
You don’t need to commit to a full renovation to test a style. Start with small, inexpensive swaps like throw pillows, blankets, or wall art. Want to try bohemian? Add a patterned rug and some greenery. Curious about industrial? Swap your light fixture for a matte black pendant and bring in a reclaimed wood side table.
Even paint can be a powerful experiment—try an accent wall in a moody navy to see if traditional or transitional vibes appeal to you. Or lean into soft neutrals and light wood tones to test Scandinavian minimalism. These little design experiments let you explore different directions without breaking the bank, and they’ll quickly reveal what feels “right” versus what feels forced.
5. Don’t Rely on Quizzes Alone
Yes, the “What’s Your Interior Design Style?” quizzes can be fun (and they often show up when you search that very phrase). But the results are usually broad—“modern,” “bohemian,” or “farmhouse”—without much nuance. They’re a starting point, not the final answer.
The problem is that most of us are a blend of design styles, and quizzes can’t always capture your lifestyle, space constraints, or personality. That’s where working with a professional interior designer comes in. A designer can look at your saved inspiration, your actual home, and your day-to-day routines to create a custom, livable version of your style. Think of quizzes as the appetizer, while professional guidance is the main course that ties it all together.
Can You Mix Interior Design Styles? (Spoiler: Yes!)
Here’s the secret most people don’t realize: you don’t have to pick just one. Mixing styles can work beautifully if you balance them with:
A consistent color palette
Repeating textures or materials
Similar scale and proportion across furniture pieces
For example: A modern sofa paired with a vintage rug. Or farmhouse architecture with sleek lighting fixtures.
FAQs About Interior Design Styles
What is a “my interior design style” quiz?
Style quizzes can give you a starting point, but don’t treat them as gospel. They’re best paired with real-world inspiration and professional guidance.
What’s the difference between modern and contemporary design?
Modern design refers to a defined style from the mid-20th century, while contemporary design evolves with current trends.
Can I combine multiple interior design styles?
Yes—most great spaces are a thoughtful blend. The key is consistency in color, proportion, and material choices.
Do interior designers help me figure out my style?
Absolutely. Designers are trained to read between your Pinterest boards and your lifestyle to create a home that feels uniquely yours.
Final Thoughts: Your Style, Your Story
At the end of the day, interior design style isn’t about labels—it’s about creating a space that feels like home. Knowing your preferences gives you confidence, direction, and peace of mind when making design decisions.
And if you’re still unsure? That’s where I come in. My job as an interior designer is to help you discover your style and bring it to life in a way that’s functional, beautiful, and completely you.
Ready to finally answer the question, “What is my interior design style?” Let’s find out together. Contact me today and let’s design a home that feels authentically yours.
