Understanding Popular Modern Interior Designs
When designing a home, whether you’re working with an interior designer or a contractor, one of the first things you’ll have to decide on is the interior layout and style that will work best with your preferences and lifestyle needs. From eclectic to rustic interior design, the list of design styles is endless. Add to the fact that layering, blending different elements, playing with different colours and materials, will create new designs, and you’ll never run out of design ideas. When it comes to thematic inspiration, a quick search on the World Wide Web will give you a glimpse into some of the more popular interior design schemes. Why are they so popular? And how is it that some started as a simple trend and transformed to an all-time classic, standing the test of time? We cover the core aspects of 7 types of design styles and let you in on some ways you can bring these chic looks to your own home.
1. Industrial Interior Design
If there was a top 3 list of interior design schemes, industrial is sure to make the cut. All about the rustic touch, it revolves around being unfinished and raw. If this is the scheme that you want to achieve in your home, several key elements must be included. Metal, wood, and leather are some of the materials that are a must, and in terms of colours, neutrals should be the go-to. If you would like to inject your abode with a splash of colours, it should be very controlled and minimal, strategically utilised to elevate the rough-around-the-edges look. Normally, there would be exposed brick walls, but since that might not be a feasible option in HDB flats here in Singapore, décor like vintage study tables and leather luxury sofas that are rustic and mature can be considered. Antique pieces are also a brilliant solution when attempting to add some personality to the space.
2. Scandinavian Interior Design
Before contemporary and minimalist interior design came about, there was Scandi interior. For those who are aware of the Bauhaus principles, Scandi interior abides by its idea that form follows function. Simple yet elegant geometric shapes are used, with a major emphasis put on fluid lines and proportion. Another Bauhaus principle that is still followed to this day is that multiple art forms must come together and work in synergy. For a sleek and well-put-together look that is free of any design collision, grey tones and other neutrals are colours often used in this type of style for the strong foundation they offer.
3. Maximalist Interior Design
If there was one design scheme that lets homeowners go all out, it has to be maximalism. Similar to eclectic interior design, close to no rules apply – just follow the motto ‘more is more’. Opt for bold colours, loud patterns, unique materials like velvet, and layer them all together. From good leather sofas to marble dining tables, anything goes with this scheme. When it comes to the hues befitting this style, jewel tones are a popular choice. Need more design ideas on how to bring maximalist interior to life? Try replicating the Great Gatsby maximalist interior!
4. Bohemian Interior Design
Also known as boho-chic, it is one of the most common styles seen in celebrity homes. Capturing the carefree spirit through its layering of textiles, boho-chic imbues the space with lightness and airiness. A warm ambience can be created with materials such as wood, leather, and a touch of metal. Purposefully messy, the bohemian interior should remind you of a holiday resort. So, go ahead and get that vintage side table and wooden chest of drawers that you’ve had your eyes on.
5. Urban Modern Interior Design
Perfectly complementary to the concrete jungle that we live in, the urban modern style has a touch of futuristic elements. Combining urban décor with vintage accents, this is a sleek and versatile design that will age well with any home. Although relatively simple to pull off, it still demands some artistic expression. Therefore, to kickstart your design journey towards urban modernism, add mirrors, pillows, and coffee tables to make the space more personal. To ensure that it does not feel too constrained and rigid, throw in vintage sofas and vintage side tables. This will make the space more inviting and easier on the eye.
6. Shabby Chic Interior Design
Combining a “grandma”-esque style with modernity is known as shabby chic. Often using pastels and neutral tones, it naturally has an aged look to it. To further emphasise this, you can also add vintage pieces throughout your home. Throws over the couch, thick duvets over mattresses, flowy curtains, and a generous amount of linen textiles are key elements to add. You can even customise your sofa to have upholstery with some patina to it!
7. Minimalist Interior Design
Minimalist interior design is probably one of the most well-known design styles. Totally uncomplicated and clean, your abode will look spick and span with this layout. Unlike maximalist interior design, minimalism is all about “less is more”. Factoring in structure and organisation, it is reminiscent of Japanese interior. To keep the clutter away, add in bookshelves, display shelves, and coffee tables with hidden storage space.
