Do you love interior design and super keen to give your home a makeover, but wouldn’t have a clue where to start?
These 14 interior design themes are not only on-trend, but will help you identify which interior styles you love the most and where you should start digging for more inspiration.
We can throw around words like bohemian, contemporary, industrial, mid century modern, rustic and Scandi until the cows (or the interior designers!) come home but if you can’t visualise what they all mean it’s tricky to get started.
Below we’ve started a visual conversation to fill your ocular senses.Now we’d love to know: which interior design styles do you love the most?
1. Art Deco Delight
If you channel bold, flashy elements of The Great Gatsby of the 1920s and think interior design rather than fashion then you will understand Art Deco.
Features of this interior design style includegeometric shapes and graphic patterns, polished chrome or brass, glossy timber furnishings, glass and mirrors and layered sultry lighting. It incorporates being bold and artistic expression with exotic touches. Originating from Paris in 1925, Art Deco is all at once histrionic and elegant.Take a peak at HouseBeautiful for more Art Deco interior design tips.
ALL CLASS: Recreate a modish interior complementing modern art Aquamarine with chic furnishings.
2. BohemianBeauty
If you fancy something more carefree, Boho interior design is your friend. Purposefully messy, this style— with its global inspirations, travel mementos and op shop finds— provides a warm ambience.
It combines different textures and materials from natural to metallic and embraces warm red and purples tones and plenty of layering when it comes to pillows, rugs and blankets. Beaded embellishments, tassels and crochet curtains are all whimsical additions to the Boho interior decor style.
WOW A ROOM: This Cubism Cats print is an exciting way to liven up an otherwise restrained interior.
3. ClassicalReflections
Classicism emerged in Europe in the 17th-19th centuries with the impressionistart, music, literature and architectureof the time inspiring this particular style.
Today, lovers of tradition who enjoy plush, formal settings tend to be drawn to the symmetry, sophistication, simplicityand reliability of classic design. Think gilded frames, heavy drapery and ornate woodwork.
NOSTALGIC: An impressionist print like City At The Port can help you master the art of timeless design.
4. Contemporary Cheer
Contemporary and modern interior design themes often get confused. The key is to remember that “modern” refers to a particular era (most often the early and mid 20th century) whereas contemporary refers to designs of today; the here and now.
This is the interior design style for those who love to follow fashion trends and change with the times. Right now in the world of contemporary art and design we are loving the simplicity of whites, greys and blondes with the excitement of occasional colour.
SUNNY DAYS: Let brightness shine through your living space with this glorious Dahlias Love The Sun abstract print.
5. Elegant Country
Unlike the music, country interior design style is for everyone. Rather than drawing from the dramas and hardships of life, it draws from the calm of the country lifestylewith nature as its muse.
The simplicity and bliss of country life permeates the decor and can be summed up by this quote:
“Country life has its advantages,’ he used to say. ‘You sit on the veranda drinking tea and your ducklings swim on the pond, and everything smells good… and there are gooseberries,”Anton Chekhov, Gooseberries.
English Country, featured below, is a feminine and flowing home design style withfloral fabrics, paintings of flowers and botanical prints at the forefront.
PERFECTLY PROVINCIAL: You can never have too many florals so get into the mixing mood with this Wisteria Watercolour print.
6. Hollywood Glam
This is the home interior style for those who love to make a statement. Hollywood glam is the epitome of luxury with opulent furnishings and over the top accents like velvets, metallics and rich colour palettes that include reds, purples and blues.
Incorporate a red carpet into any room, sequinned cushions and lampshades and lights around your bathroom mirror to make the most of this interior design theme.
‘I’m not interested in money, I just want to be wonderful,’ Marilyn Monroe.
ENCHANTING: A rose by any other name would smell as sweet as this Peony Petals print from our Abstract collection.
7. Industrial Edge
While it often seems modern and funky to the eye, industrial design is actually quite rustic and sensible. It takes advantage of exposed steel, timber and brick to create an edgy living space that’s full of character.
It preserves the best quality design of theturn of the 20th century and brings out all its raw beauty and mercurial appeal. Industrial interior design themes offer a unisex vibe that suits larger spaces, both at home or the office.
FUNK IT UP: It doesn’t get edgier than New York City and this Manhattan Bridge print will transform a bedroom into an industrial attraction.
8. Mid Century Modern
While mid century modern is considered a more practical interior design style, there’s more to it than pure function. It may not be fussy, but it still oozes character with nostalgic elements gleamed from the 1950s and 60s.
Everything is scaled back and simple, but with some fun retro stylings thrown in.
LOOK BACK: Uncomplicate your life with a trio of fresh yet vintage vehicle prints.
9. Minimalist Musings
Bachelor pads often embrace minimalist design. Perhaps it’s because it’s easy to keep clean, butit’s actually a house proud interior design style like any other defined by simple furnishings, neutral colour palettes and clean lines.
However, it does not mean it’s devoid of style. Quite the contrary. When art is selected with care, the “less is more” mindset respects creativity, but shuns flamboyantexcesses and unmanageable clutter.
REPOSE: Scale things back a little and decorate with this stunning Simplicity print from our Modern collection.
10. Nautical Escape
Inspired bythe deepblue, nautical themes in interior design are often seen in beach houses and seaside apartments as well as restaurants and cafes to createa sense of adventure and relaxation.
Defined by rustic furnishings, sailing motifs, blue colour palettesand boating ornaments aplenty, the nautical interior design theme is everyone’s chill zone.
‘You can either see yourself as a wave in the ocean or you can see yourself as the ocean,’ Oprah Winfrey.
CALL OF THE SEA: If the ocean is your muse then you’ll love this Waiting For The Tide photographic art print.
11. Oriental Mindset
Asian-style interiors are more often than not a fusion of styles, with Japanese and Chinese expressionleading the way of popular interior design themes.
Japanese design is minimalist (think Zen) with colours from the natural world informing the colour palette while Chinese design is more opulent with richer, lavish colours like golds, reds, jades and purples used.
EXOTIC: Use this Chinese art, Floating Orchid Panorama, to transform a room into a peaceful retreat.
12. Retro Fun
The psychedelic art of today requires far less drugs, despite being inspired by the wayward psychedelic era of the sixties.
Retro design is all about good, clean fun. Using pops of colour in art, furnishings and ornaments will lift spirits and inspire happiness. And as an interior design style it’s a bit sexy. Yeah baby! Yeah!
COLOUR EXPLOSION: Give a room all the colours of the rainbow with this Joyful Pops retro print.
13. Rustic Meandering
It’s time to take a walk outside without even leaving home!
Rustic design is all about bringing the outdoors in, but without the biting bugs and the risks of inclement weather. Think raw, reclaimed timbers, exposed beams andunfinishedstones, popular with a lot of hipster cafes and restaurants of today. There’s no reason why you can’t recreate this interior design style at home.
PICTURESQUE: The Old Winding Alley photo print is the perfect accompaniment to a rustic charged interior.
14. Scandinavian Flavour
Inspired by the simplicity of Nordic life, Scandinavian design has become an artform in itself. It takes to craftingsomething stylish andcutting edge to functional and simple.
To that end, white and blonde colour palettes are typical of Scandi with splashes of elements from nature such as furs, leathers and natural fibres.
HAPPY DAYS: This incredible panoramic abstract Pink Morning print is quintessentially modern Scandi.
Did you decide on an interior design theme to try out? Match your decor to your new wall prints.
FAQs
What are the current trends in interior design? ›
Interior design trends seem to be taking a more eco-friendly approach as people are moving towards warm tones and natural elements. Decor elements made either from real or faux natural materials are in high demand, as they add a natural and authentic look to your space.
Why are themes important in interior design? ›Interior design themes make it easier to know what you're looking for, and they also help tie everything together, resulting in a more polished look overall.
What is an example of a theme? ›Examples of Theme Topics: Love, Justice/Injustice, Family, Struggle, the American Dream, Wealth, Inhumanity Examples of Themes: People risk their own identity to find love; Power corrupts humanity; Without empathy, there can be no justice. 2.
How do I choose an interior design theme? ›Analyze Your Preferences and Lifestyle
These are some questions you need to ask yourself before you select a theme for your space. Start thinking about things that you find interesting and visually appealing, and use the combination of these to create your dream design theme.
In 2022, designers are ditching faux-distressed furniture, redoing kitchens to erase the all-white mode, and tossing boho chic throw pillows and wall hangings that are ubiquitous in the farmhouse trend.
What is the new decorating trend for 2022? ›"Darker, more saturated colors are going to be everywhere in 2022," shares designer Hope Austin. "Think wallcoverings and fabrics in bold blues and bright citrines paired with rich espresso and slate finishes."
What is the interior design trend for 2022? ›Textiles are returning to a classic in 2022. Leather, whether faux or real is a material that can instantly elevate an interior. It is certainly an inviting fabric for living spaces and bedroom trends. Either let your leather be showcased in a natural color or really make a statement with a bold color.
What is a theme in design? ›Theming refers to "the use of an overarching theme...to create a holistic and integrated spatial organization of a consumer venue.” A theme is “a unifying or dominant idea or motif”, so theming is the process of designing and constructing an object or space so that “the particular subject or idea on which the style of ...
What is difference between theme and style in interior design? ›Style is a bit different from theme. Style guides your design choices. While theme unifies the appearance of elements, style dictates the actual elements that will be used for your event.
What is design concept in interior design? ›An interior design concept is the central theme that all the design elements are focused upon. It exists as an idea first and is brought to reality through careful planning. At its best, an interior design concept is a visual theme that evokes a specific mood by strategically using color, space, and style.
What are the 4 types of interior design? ›
Contemporary Interior Design style. Traditional interior designing Style. Modern style of interior design. Industrial interior design style.
Why are the 7 Elements of interior design important? ›The 7 elements of design are designed to help you balance an interior scheme so that the finished look is aesthetically pleasing, as well as functional. Design is a science, after all, as well as an art.
Where is interior design most popular? ›Interior design is popular across the U.S., but some states are definitely more amenable to the profession. Some of the states in which home and interior design are most popular include California, Texas, and Florida, with designers enjoying high employment and thousands of jobs.
What are the 12 common themes? ›- Power.
- Family.
- Identity.
- Loneliness.
- Friendship.
- Free will vs. Fate.
- Hope.
- Love.
- Good vs. evil.
- Love.
- Redemption.
- Courage and perseverance.
- Coming of age.
- Revenge.
A book's central theme can be anything the author chooses to focus on. Certainly, courage, death, friendship, revenge, and love are five themes that abound. Let's take a closer look at these common themes, as well as some interesting examples from popular works of fiction.
How many types of interior design are there? ›Modern Interior Design. Contemporary Interior Design. Art Moderne Interior Design.
Should your home have a theme? ›Having a theme in mind when decorating your home can be extremely helpful. Knowing what you want your room to look like and the feeling you want it to evoke will guide you through the design process and keep you moving in the right direction.
What is the interior color for 2022? ›Pantone's Very Peri
Pantone's 2022 Color of the Year is making history with its best reveal yet: an entirely new hue created, for the first time ever, to serve as Color of the Year. They call it Very Peri (17-3938).
In 2022 we want to bring the outside in, and both bold and subdued colors will have a moment in 2022, as long as they're earthy shades. The colors of the beach, like light blues, soft grays, and other stone colors, as well as soft pinks and oranges from the terracotta family will dominate the pastel range.
How do I update my home decor 2022? ›
- 15 Decorating tips to update your home in 2022.
- Embrace color in the designs.
- Make your home bloom.
- Decorate your space with ceramic pieces.
- Having artwork on the walls can bring you joy.
- Get a custom feel by combining different cabinets and shelves.
“We have noticed a growing popularity for muted, pastel colors,” states Clara Ewart, interior designer, and Head of Design at Kitesgrove. “Soft pastels are versatile and easy to incorporate in a myriad of schemes. Earthy yellow and orange tones are not only easy to style but feel incredibly current.”
What trend is replacing farmhouse? ›The new hot style that is on the rise is Cottagecore. According to an article published on realtor.com, “While slightly similar, this trend is replacing the popular modern farmhouse trend, which may be on its way out, according to designers.
Is farmhouse style out for 2022? ›Modern Farmhouse
There will be far less shiplap in 2022. While Chip and Joanna Gaines are far from over, their signature modern farmhouse look isn't something many interior designers will be living, laughing, or loving in 2022.
White walls are pretty classic but are definitely still on trend. While dark, moody walls are very popular, white is the light and bright neutral option that is most on trend at the moment!
Are gray walls still in style 2022? ›Is gray paint going out of style in 2022? Gray paint is trending downward in high end design, but will continue to reign in new builds and contractor's bids.
What is theme and inspiration? ›A theme is not something you can create, because it already exists. It is something to implement. However, any design is a result of the process of creation, as it is inspired and requires the creative process to create something new or fresh.
What is concept and theme? ›Merriam Webster defines a concept as “an abstract or generic idea”. It describes a theme as “a specific and distinctive quality, characteristic, or concern”.
What does a theme contain? ›The theme of a story or poem will be explored through elements like characters, plot, settings, conflict, and even word choice and literary devices. Theme describes the central idea(s) that a piece of writing explores.
What is style and theme? ›A style is a collection of attributes that specify the appearance for a single View . A style can specify attributes such as font color, font size, background color, and much more. A theme is a collection of attributes that's applied to an entire app, activity, or view hierarchy—not just an individual view.
What is modern luxury interior design? ›
The modern luxury home interior design features mostly straight and clean lines, with barely any use of curves or intricate details. Think simple geometric shapes and sleek designs. When choosing your furniture, focus on finding simple and functional pieces that can fit perfectly into your home interior design.
Can each room has a different theme? ›Each Room Can Be Styled And Themed
You can choose to design any room of the house in a certain theme or style, for instance, if you would like the kitchen to have more of a rustic look, you can easily do so even if the lounge is more modern, or a mix of the two.
The five basic concepts of interior design are Balance, Harmony, Rhythm, Proportion and Scale and Focal Point.
What are the 5 elements of interior design? ›The elements are your tools or raw materials, much like paints are the basics to a painter. The five elements of interior design include space, line, form, color, and texture.
What is the theme of the design? ›A design theme can be defined as the recurrent, underlying objective that ensures consistency in the design of wide range of products that belong to a single family. The consistency may be in terms of packaging, advertising campaigns and in other traits as well.
What is a concept theme? ›Merriam Webster defines a concept as “an abstract or generic idea”. It describes a theme as “a specific and distinctive quality, characteristic, or concern”.
What is a theme in architecture? ›The theme in architectural design is a representation of the overall abstract design as a common thread of the architectural planning and design process which will eventually become the spirit or soul of the architectural work.
What is modern theme? ›Modern design is an interior design style characterized by a monochromatic color palette, clean lines, minimalism, natural materials, and natural light. It refers specifically to a historical aesthetic movement that took place during the early to mid-twentieth century.
What is design concept in interior design? ›An interior design concept is the central theme that all the design elements are focused upon. It exists as an idea first and is brought to reality through careful planning. At its best, an interior design concept is a visual theme that evokes a specific mood by strategically using color, space, and style.
What is difference between theme and style in interior design? ›Style is a bit different from theme. Style guides your design choices. While theme unifies the appearance of elements, style dictates the actual elements that will be used for your event.
Why are the 7 Elements of interior design important? ›
The 7 elements of design are designed to help you balance an interior scheme so that the finished look is aesthetically pleasing, as well as functional. Design is a science, after all, as well as an art.
Where is interior design most popular? ›Interior design is popular across the U.S., but some states are definitely more amenable to the profession. Some of the states in which home and interior design are most popular include California, Texas, and Florida, with designers enjoying high employment and thousands of jobs.
What is luxury interior design? ›Luxury interior design is the designing of indoor spaces for luxurious, upscale houses, apartments and commercial property such as high-end hotels. This type of interior design focuses on top of the line products such as expensive furniture, glamorous antiques and opulent artwork.
What are some good theme ideas? ›- #1 Life on Mars. By 2028, a Mars-themed party could have a very different meaning. ...
- #2 Galaxy. ...
- #3 Alien Invasion. ...
- #4 NASA/Space. ...
- #5 Night at the Oscars. ...
- #6 Classic Hollywood. ...
- #7 Space Jam. ...
- #8 Alice in Wonderland.
- Good vs. evil.
- Love.
- Redemption.
- Courage and perseverance.
- Coming of age.
- Revenge.
Concepts are based on our experiences. Concepts can be based on real phenomena and are a generalized idea of something of meaning. Examples of concepts include common demographic measures: Income, Age, Eduction Level, Number of SIblings.
What is the full meaning of architecture? ›1 : the art or science of building specifically : the art or practice of designing and building structures and especially habitable ones. 2a : formation or construction resulting from or as if from a conscious act the architecture of the garden.
What is Biophilic architecture? ›Biophilic design is an approach to architecture that seeks to connect building occupants more closely to nature. Biophilic designed buildings incorporate things like natural lighting and ventilation, natural landscape features and other elements for creating a more productive and healthy built environment for people.