1. TRADITIONAL AND HERITAGE STYLES
Heritage interior design styles deserve a space in every home. Accenting a more modern scheme with unique vintage finds is easily done, or vice-versa, depending on your preferences and on the original style of your home.
2. FARMHOUSE, COUNTRY, AND FRENCH DECOR
In a sense, no matter how big or small an interior design style may be, they can each be iconic as they pave the way for new modernist evolutions. Recent years saw the rise of Cottagecore, combining cottage home roots with modern elegance and clean lines. Still, the rustic charm of farmhouse decor will always have a place in the home.
3. MODERNISM
Many of today's best interior designers take pride in finding inspiration from past great designers and eras they contributed to. 'It's hard to pick one but I would say Modernism is definitely our top favorite. Whether you're designing a residential space or a commercial environment,' says Lauri. 'Modernism's adaptability makes it a go-to style for us. Design that stands the test of time, clean and contemporary aesthetic, neutral color palette, and open spaces are key elements why we love this timeless era.'
4. BAUHAUS
Within modernism you will find nods to the elaborate luxury of Art Deco while it seems that the 19th century Bauhaus movement is a particular favorite amongst designers: 'Bauhaus isn’t just an aesthetic to be admired, it’s a design ethos that continues to challenge and inspire our work, reminding us that beauty resides in the essence of functionality,' says Artem Kropovinsky, an interior design expert and founder of Arsight.
5. MID-CENTURY MODERN
Evolving from as early as 1945, through to the 1960s, Mid-century modern interiors interiors are simple, filled with distinctive craftsmanship, architectural furniture, and warm colors. It is distinctive and sought after, and we owe much of its contemporary and clean aesthetic to architects such as Le Corbusier and Richard Neutra.
6. CALIFORNIA COOL
That relaxed, laid-back West-coast aesthetic, is effortlessly channeled by interior designers like Amber Lewis.
Think coastal notes, and washed-out tones with elements of driftwood and textured fabrics to bring California Casual into your home. It makes quite the contrast to East Coast style interiors which are none-the-less impactful, but slightly bolder in finish.
7. MEDITERRANEAN AND WORLDLY STYLES
Mediterranean decor is relaxed, yet brimming with colorful patterned tiles, colors of sea and sky, kindly juxtaposed against soft plaster tones and light-washed finishes.
8. BOHEMIAN DESIGN
A little shabby, in all the right ways, bohemian decor is inviting and unfussy, without looking unfinished. Colors are earthy, tonal, bright, and rich, textures are layered, a little loose and it can be interpreted in multiple ways and in most home spaces.
9. MAXIMALIST AND ECLECTIC STYLES
Maximalism is loud but not arrogant, and when done well it will not be overwhelming but a harmonious burst of energy and delight. For these iconic interior styles, we can take inspiration from Kelly Wearstler's dramatic and luxurious approach to spaces that draws on nature, architecture, and fashion. It is one to be admired, edited, and loved even more over time.
10. MINIMALISM
Though minimalism has a sore reputation for being cold and uninviting, we can still pay homage to its roots for it has inspired many more modern micro trends of late. Minimalism can simply be applied to many different styles and interpreted how you would like it.
11. WABI-SABI
The imperfect charm of Wabi-Sabi home design is emerging in our homes. It is not new but coming more into the spotlight recently. Internationally celebrated interior architect, designer and property developer, Shalini Misra, told M that Wabi Sabi is the most iconic interior design style everyone should know about.
12. JAPANDI
The calming aesthetic of Japandi lends itself perfectly to modern and more traditional homes alike. Combining notes of Scandinavian design with pared-back elements of Japanese interiors, this iconic interior design style was particularly popular post-pandemic for its calming and orderly finish that honours craftsmanship and nods to slow living.
13. SCANDINAVIAN DESIGN
Scandinavian design is inherently architectural, thoughtful, and modern, all whilst being cozy and inspiring, it is no wonder that it is perhaps one of the most influential and iconic interior design styles around. Many homes happily embrace the concept of Hygge, especially at the onset of fall. Some may even be familiar with Friluftsliv...