When you look around your home, can you identify what each room's style is? Are you wanting to make a change but don't know how to pinpoint what you're looking for? Identifying your ideal interior design style is a great start.

While this may seem like a lofty goal to attain, it's as simple as knowing what you like and then putting yourself in the category that best fits those elements. It's not always easy to put yourself in a box — nor are we saying that's what you should do. However, knowing your personal home preferences can help you create the space of your dreams in less time and with less money.

Are you dying to identify your interior design style? We can help! Use this as your resource for narrowing down your favorite looks.

Why Your Interior Design Style Matters

Your interior design style is more than just aesthetics; it's a reflection of you. It tells your story, showcases your personality, and creates a space where you feel truly at home. Whether you're drawn to the sleek minimalism of modern design, the cozy charm of rustic decor or the vibrant energy of eclectic spaces, your decorating style sets the tone for how you experience your surroundings.

A well-defined style makes your home look good and work for your lifestyle. It influences how functional your space is, ensuring it aligns with your needs and schedule. For example, clean lines and neutral tones can create a calming atmosphere perfect for relaxation, while bold colors and patterns may energize and inspire creativity.

Key Components of Different Design Styles

Whether you tend to stick to one look or you like to constantly switch it up, being aware of the existing designs can make it easier to discover what pieces you like and what categories they fall under. While this isn't an all-inclusive list, here are some of the most popular interior design style options and their key characteristics:

Modern Interior Design

Modern design is all about simplicity, sleekness and functionality. This decor style embraces clean, straight lines and open spaces to create uncluttered, airy atmospheres. Neutral colors like white, gray and black dominate, often accented with a pop of bold color to add interest.

Key characteristics of modern design style:

• Clean lines.
• Neutral colors.
• Glass.
• Metals.
• Polished natural wood.
• Minimalism.
• Geometric patterns.

Traditional Interior Design

Traditional design exudes warmth, comfort and classic elegance. It's inspired by European decor, featuring rich, dark woods and ornate details like crown molding, wainscoting and carved furniture. The traditional style color palette leans toward warm, inviting shades like beige, cream and deep reds or greens, creating a cozy yet upscale ambiance.

Key characteristics of traditional interior design style:

• Classic and antique furniture.
• Warm colors.
• Symmetry.
• Heavy fabrics.

Boho Interior Design

Boho, short for bohemian, is a design style that's as free-spirited and eclectic as its name suggests. This look thrives on mixing textures, patterns and colors, creating an environment bursting with personality and charm. Natural materials like rattan, bamboo and jute are staples, while macramé wall hangings and woven rugs add an artisanal touch.

Key characteristics of boho interior design style:

• Eclectic decor.
• Natural elements.
• Layering.
• Incorporating cultural inspiration.

Scandinavian Interior Design

Inspired by the simplicity and functionality of Nordic living, Scandinavian design focuses on creating bright, serene spaces that prioritize comfort and practicality. The color palette is light and neutral, often featuring shades of white, beige and soft pastels, which help maximize the reflection of natural light. The furniture is sleek and functional, with clean lines and minimal ornamentation.

Key characteristics of Scandinavian style:

• Light and airy color palette.
• Functional furniture.
• Natural materials.
• Cozy decor.

Mid-Century Modern Interior Design

With its roots in the mid-20th century, this decorating style marries retro charm with modern functionality. It's characterized by furniture with tapered legs, organic shapes and a streamlined silhouette. The color palette includes earthy tones like olive green and mustard yellow, balanced by pops of bold hues such as teal or burnt orange.

Key characteristics of mid-century modern interior design style:

• Furniture with tapered legs and organic shapes.
• Retro color palette.
• Wood accents.

Modern Farmhouse Interior Design

Modern farmhouse design combines rustic charm with modern comforts, creating spaces that feel both homey and stylish. Reclaimed wood beams, stone fireplaces and shiplap walls provide the rustic foundation, while soft, warm tones like cream, beige and sage green add a welcoming touch.

Key characteristics of the rustic farmhouse look:

• Reclaimed wood and stone.
• Warm tones.
• Soft lighting.
• Comfortable furniture.
• Hand-crafted items.

Find Your Interior Design Style

Want even more information on your design preferences? Take our interior design style quiz to get a better understanding of your personal style. Then, reach out to our team of interior decorating experts to redesign your home.

Enter your zip code to find a personal decorator near you and start the home improvement process.