Design trends may come and go, but there are some styles that never seem to fade away.
Some styles seem to only increase in popularity as the years go by. What is it that makes these design styles timeless?
In this article, we want to dig a little deeper into some of these ever-popular design styles and see what it is that makes them classics!
Traditional Interior Design – The Timeless Classic
Traditional interior design is a tried and true classic that never seems to go out of style.
While traditional design may be rooted in 18th and 19th century European décor, it is not defined or confined to any particular time period or region.
This gives this design style the freedom and flexibility to show individuality and personality.
The center of traditional design is warmth and comfort, which is always a desirable attribute for any home.
Some of the key design elements of the traditional design style are:
Balance and symmetry
Centers around comfort
Organic, curved lines instead of angular, straight lines
Rich, warm color palettes
Functional spaces designed around a sense of community and gathering
Balance And Symmetry In Traditional Interior Design
Balance and symmetry add a sense of order and harmony to any space which is incredibly desirable in interior design.
Traditional design uses pairs of accessories, artwork, carefully placed furniture, and other embellishments to give a room a sense of balance. This symmetry creates an atmosphere that feels orderly and calm.
Balance and symmetry also contribute to the comfortable atmosphere of a room since it allows the eye to rest and creates a soothing effect.
Traditional Interior Design Centers On Comfort
One of the best reasons why traditional design has remained popular over the years is because it’s main objective is to create a comfortable environment.
Everyone wants their home to first and foremost, be a comfortable place, making this design style immensely attractive.
Large, overstuffed furniture, fluffy throw pillows, layered window treatments all add to the soft, cozy quality of traditionally styled rooms.
A variety of layered textures and fabrics will contribute to the feeling of comfort. Even hard materials will boast curved lines and scrolling artwork to soften the edges.
Traditional Interior Design Favors Curved Lines Rather Than Straight Angles
Traditional design steers clear of straight lines and sharp angles and showcases beautiful curves.
Smooth arches, scrolling carvings, and intricate decorations can be found on furnishings, lighting, and even in the architecture of the room.
Moldings, railings, and arched doorways or windows are structural embellishments that lend themselves nicely to traditional design.
Circular coffee tables, curve backed chairs, and rounded couches are all furniture choices that lend themselves to traditional décor. Even more rectangular pieces, such as mantles, sideboards, and credenzas, will often have some sort of curvy embellishment to make them look less angular.
Window treatments that gather or swoop, such as floor length draperies, Roman shades, or valances, are all beautiful additions to traditional design. Layering different window treatments is a way to ensure the windows in a traditionally styled room are both functional and decorative.
Traditional Interior Design Features Rich And Warm Color Palettes
Rich, dark woods and vibrant accent colors have a primary role in traditional interior design.
Colorful prints and patterns are often paired with understated solids, which again adds to the layered feeling of the space.
While colors are encouraged, they are not overstated or gaudy. Typically, there will be three color choices in a space with a more neutral color as the primary color, a complementary secondary color, and a bold accent color.
Since comfort is key, most color choices for this design style will be warmer hues. Even neutral colors will be warmer varieties of cream, eggshell, and vanilla. Tans and beige colors are also commonly seen instead of the classic white base. These warmer neutral colors will play off the natural yellow undertones and create a rich, warm ambience.
Traditional Interiors Are Designed To Be Inviting
Traditional interior design is meant to be functional and promote gathering and community.
Rooms are designed with a central focal point, such as a fireplace, a dining room table, or a kitchen island.
Seating areas are configured to accommodate congregating in such a way that promotes interaction and communication.
These rooms are warm, welcoming, and inviting because they are designed to bring everyone together. The home is meant to feel this way, which is why traditional design will always be considered relevant and stylish.
Contemporary Interior Design – Of The Moment
Contemporary interior design is based in the here and now. Anything that is presently popular finds its way into contemporary design.
This design style is always evolving and changing to fit the current trends which means that by definition, contemporary design will always be a popular choice.
Here are some of the attributes of contemporary interior design:
Form complements function
Angular lines and geometric shapes
Neutral color palettes
Minimalistic approach to décor and ornamentation
Open space and natural light create a feeling of airiness
Form And Function Work Hand In Hand In Contemporary Interior Design
It is important for a home to be functional and contemporary interior design does just that by balancing form with function.
A piece of furniture, light fixture, or window treatment may look amazing, but it should also add something useful to the room.
Contemporary design is sleek and paired down. Surfaces are clean and uncluttered. Any accessories or items that are put in place must serve a purpose.
While traditional design may flourish under many layers, patterns, and textures, contemporary design does not. Contemporary design wants sleek profiles and simple accessories.
Window treatments for contemporary interiors will be simple, functional additions. Most of these window treatments will have low profiles, such as roller shades or blinds, that will almost disappear into the window frame when raised.
If extra ornamentation is desired, a smooth and streamlined cornice might be placed on top of the window. If side panels or draperies are added, it might be to add a sense of height to the window, thus serving a specific purpose to the room.
Contemporary Interior Design Uses Angular Lines And Geometric Shapes
Just because contemporary design flourishes with a “less is more” mentality, does not mean it is boring.
Contemporary design highlights angular lines, patterns, and shapes through furniture with exposed legs and purposefully chosen artwork or accessories.
Angular lines will be balanced with simple geometric shapes such as orbs and cylinders. Patterns will be subtle and will not be layered on top of other prints and colors will also be more subdued.
Incorporating textures is a great way to add a subtle, sophisticated patterned look to any surface. Balanced with shiny, smooth surfaces these two dynamics will create just the look and feel for a contemporary room.
Neutral Color Palettes Play A Key Role In Contemporary Interior Design
Color palettes in contemporary interior design will be a carefully selected combination of sophisticated neutrals or tone-on-tone color schemes.
Subtly is a key component of contemporary design, and this is most apparent through the choice of colors.
The number of color choices within a space will be limited. Most of the colors will be a variation of neutrals paired with a black, white, or gray.
If a bold color choice is desired, save this for accents and pops of color placed strategically around the room.
Monochromatic color schemes are also a popular choice for contemporary design. Choosing one color and using different tones and shades of the same color will create a color palette that is cohesive.
Colors within contemporary décor should be subtle and are meant to enhance the ambiance of the room.
Contemporary Interior Design Is Minimalistic
Contemporary interior design is all about clean lines and minimal ornamentation. Decor is meant to be sleek and streamlined.
Pieces that are chosen are intentionally placed in order to work together to create a functional space that is pleasing to the eye.
It is no wonder that this design style is continuously popular. A clean, open space is soothing and restful. Who doesn’t want a space that evokes peacefulness and calm?
While simplicity is key, contemporary style is not without visual interest. Adding an accent accessory or a piece of furniture with a distinct design is all the more noticeable in a contemporary styled room because it will stand out on its own.
Contemporary design is fun and intriguing because it brings one or two elements into the spotlight and let’s them truly shine. Furniture will be functional and uncluttered. The form will be less plushy and more streamline. Fabrics will be chosen specifically and will play with textures rather than bright colors or prints.
Floors and other hard surfaces will typically be left uncovered to showcase a smooth, polished surface. Walls will have very little adornment and any artwork or wall hangings will be intentionally chosen.
Windows are also often left uncovered. In contemporary design, function is key, so the functionality of the window will determine what window treatment is best suited.
Shades and blinds are sleek and stylish enough while still maintaining the sleek, low-profile look that a contemporary room requires. The function of the window treatment is to provide light control or privacy as needed without drawing attention.
Contemporary Interior Design Should Feel Open And Airy
Contemporary styled rooms are designed around open space and lots of natural light to make them feel airy and expansive.
Large windows are a desirable feature for a contemporary room since they provide ample amounts of natural light.
Minimalistic décor and accessories help keep the space uncluttered and will add to the sense of openness.
Smooth surfaces will reflect the light of the space and make it feel larger and more expansive.
The “less is more” approach of contemporary interior design adds to the spaciousness of the room and creates a feeling of openness and airiness.
Transitional Interior Design – A Harmonious Blend
Transitional interior design was born from a blending of two distinct design styles – traditional and contemporary.
Transitional design is the perfect combination of a little bit of traditional comfort and elegance with a little contemporary style.
If traditional style feels a little stuffy, but contemporary feels a little cold or impersonal, transitional design might be your sweet spot!
Transitional interior design is an increasingly popular choice since it takes elements from both styles and blends them together to create a unique and cohesive look. The result is a casual, tailored space that reflects comfort and harmony.
Since it is constantly evolving and changing to reflect what is current and popular, this design style ages well and will never be out of style.
Some of the key elements of transitional interior design:
Combination of traditional and contemporary
Strong angular shapes with curved lines
Warm, soft, neutral colors and simple patterns
Layered textures
Minimal accessories and simple ornamentation
Transitional Interior Design Combines Traditional And Contemporary Design Elements
Transitional interior design stems from a harmonious blend of both traditional and contemporary design elements.
The mixing of two different design styles provides a vast amount of freedom.
Start with streamline, contemporary materials, such as steel and glass, then add large pillows and plush furnishings. Or take large, traditional furniture and add a contemporary styled light fixture or piece of art. This design style is popular because the possibilities are practically endless!
This design style lends itself to the individual since it brings together pieces that resonate on a personal level.
Once the desired elements are chosen, the tricky part is to bring them together harmoniously.
Transitional design is not cluttered, so be sure to find something consistent to tie the room together. This will help the room look cohesive and not like a hodgepodge of décor.
Transitional Interior Design Mixes Strong Angles With Curves
Transitional interior design uses both soft, curving lines with strong, angular shapes.
The curved lines stem from traditional design and the straight lines and angles reflect the contemporary influences.
Mixing the two should be done carefully to ensure the finished look is harmonious and not chaotic.
Pair furniture with curved profiles or rounded backs with more angular coffee tables or end tables. Use circular rugs to balance rectangular picture frames or mirrors. Layer sweeping draperies or a scalloped top treatment on top of simple, horizontal blinds or striped shades for a beautiful finished window.
Again, the desired effect is a clean finished look, so lean towards the contemporary motto of “less is more” while having some fun.
Transitional Interior Design Favor Warm, Neutral Color Palettes And Simple Patterns
A warm, neutral color palette is a foundational piece for transitional interior design.
The idea is to create a relaxed and calm ambiance with soothing neutral colors. A deep, rich color choice can be added as an accent, but the idea is to keep the overall look understated.
The rich, warm colors will bring in the traditional side and the understated neutrals will add a bit of the contemporary feel.
Playing with patterns is another fun way to bring in a dynamic element. Stick with simple patterns such as stripes or a repeating geometric shape that will not take over the space.
The key with transitional design is to keep a harmonious balance between all the elements so they complement each other without clashing.
Use simplicity as a guide to make sure the colors and patterns chosen add something of value to the space and are not chosen arbitrarily.
Transitional Interior Design Makes The Most Of Minimalistic Decorations
Transitional interior design uses minimal accessories and understated décor. Taking a cue from contemporary design, transitional spaces will keep surfaces clean and uncluttered.
Minimal décor and simplistic ornamentation combined with comfortable and inviting furniture and textiles are a telltale sign of transitional style.
The accessories or artwork that are included in a transitional designed space will be intentionally chosen and placed, similar to how pieces are chosen in contemporary spaces.
Textures are an important part of transitional interior design because they create depth and dimension to the space while also incorporating additional warmth and comfort. Texture is a great way to incorporate layers to the décor without taking up too much space. This will add visual interest without adding clutter to the space.
Add layers to the flooring by adding an area rug or runner. Add visual interest to a blank wall by hanging tapestries or using something that is not flat as an artistic touch such as baskets or three dimensional artwork.
Layers are always a popular option for window treatments as well. Pair draperies or a top treatment with blinds or shutters to achieve a combination of textured fabric with smooth, streamlined hard treatments. This is a beautiful visualization of traditional décor being paired with sleek contemporary design to achieve an overall look and feel.
Farmhouse Interior Design – Rustic Charm
Farmhouse interior design is rooted in simplicity and sentimentality. This is a style that has continued to grow in popularity over the years and is still gaining momentum.
Farmhouse interior design stems from cottage, shabby chic, and French country design styles and brings out an emphasis on rustic motifs, natural materials, and casual comfort. All of these things contribute to the overall feeling of charm and nostalgia within these spaces.
This is an unpretentious, laid back style that is filled with personality and charm which is why this style is not going anywhere anytime soon.
Here are some of the primary features of farmhouse interior design:
Emphasis on comfortable yet rustic décor
Exposed and unfinished materials
Earth toned color palettes paired with prints
Layered textures and simple fabrics
Mismatched and vintage accessories
Farmhouse Interior Design Emphasizes Comfort With Simplicity
Farmhouse interior design is unpretentious and casual. The appeal is in the rustic charm of a space.
Furniture may be well worn, but comfortable. Pieces may not match one another, but they will all tie the room together.
Hardwood floors are lovely in farmhouse design but expect to see a woven area rug or floor mats placed around to space to add a softer feel.
Soft window treatments, such as curtains, draperies, and valances are beautiful additions to farmhouse décor, especially when used with hard treatments such as shutters or wooden blinds. Fabric adds a softer feeling to a space as well as a sense of movement and elegance.
Comfortable rooms are functional. The desire for comfort and functionality will never go out of style which is why farmhouse design continues to be a popular choice.
Farmhouse Interior Design Uses Exposed And Unfinished Materials
The casual nature of farmhouse interior design makes the most of natural and unfinished materials.
Beams are often left exposed. Trim left unfinished. Furniture such as tables and chairs may have a raw, organic quality to them without much decoration or polish.
Shiplap walls are commonly seen in farmhouse décor. Shiplap walls use overlapping pieces of wood to create an interlocking panel. When used on walls in farmhouse interiors, shiplap is often painted a neutral color to let the detail of the paneling stand on its own.
Hardwood floors are a beautiful design choice for farmhouse interiors and can show off the grain and color of the natural material.
Window treatments will favor natural wood and organic materials, but there may also be a place for painted wood options. Similar to painted shiplap walls, neutral colors may make the details stand out.
Mixing different types of metals also works well in farmhouse interior design. Wrought iron, bronze, brass, and even other metals that are starting to show a little rust or patina will work nicely with the look and feel of a farmhouse styled room.
Farmhouse Interior Design Plays With Earth Tones And Pastel Prints
Color palettes for farmhouse interior design will favor warm, earthy tones. Starting with a neutral base, such as ivory or eggshell, the room will begin to show personality with splashes of pastels and accent colors.
Great accent colors will include navy blues, sage greens, rich browns, and even burnt orange. Pastel colors can also be used throughout. Do not feel the need to match, but instead keep in mind how the colors complement each other.
Prints are another wonderful addition to farmhouse design. Stripes, checkered patterns, and plaids are fun to incorporate throughout the space. Floral prints are also beautiful ways to bring in more colors.
Mixing materials is a great way to use both prints and solids. Consider a simple window shade with a beautiful floral print and add long sheer draperies to complete an elegant farmhouse look. Or bring in natural materials, such as wooden blinds and add lacy curtains around the window for another darling farmhouse window.
Farmhouse style gets to bring a variety of colors, patterns, materials and fabrics all together so enjoy the process!
Farmhouse Interior Design Loves To Layer Textures Using Simple Fabrics
As stated, farmhouse interior design gets to play with a wide range of fabrics and materials. A great way to incorporate all of these is through layering.
Stick with simple fabrics such as cottons or linens and then add materials with texture like burlap and canvas. The contrast of textures will add a dynamic look and feel.
Include textured materials to floor rugs, runners on mantels or tables, and window treatments. Woven natural materials are a great way to bring in the outdoors while also added texture to the décor.
Burlap or lace can also be cut down to narrow strips and added as embellishments around jars, candles, books, or other accessories throughout the space.
Have fun finding unique ways to bring more texture into a room and watch the space really come to life.
Mismatched Furniture And Vintage Pieces Find New Life In Farmhouse Interior Design
Farmhouse interior design brings in vintage pieces and thrives with creating a space that may not perfectly match, but exudes sentimental value.
Pieces of furniture that are secondhand or vintage are right at home next to a favorite chair or a display of personal photographs. This combination of personal effects and comfortably worn pieces is why this design style continues to be so popular.
There is an ease and comfortable feeling to farmhouse furniture and accessories. It brings out the personality of the owner and reflects fondly on the past. It exudes a feeling of nostalgia that many are looking for.
The ambiance created by farmhouse style tells a story and will always be comfortable and endearing. This is one of the many reasons farmhouse interior design is a style that is here to stay.
Conclusion
Design styles are a wonderful way to make a room feel cohesive and complete. Finding a classic design style that does not go out of style will make your home feel elegant and relevant for years to come.
The best design style is the one that reflects your personality and taste. If you are not comfortable with the look and feel of your home, no one else will be either.
A wonderful way to elevate the style of any room is by adding custom window treatments. The right window treatments will make all the difference.
At ACA Shutters & Blinds, we offer amazing custom window treatments that will add the perfect finishing touches to your home.
Our designers are experts at determining the best window treatments to fit your needs, style, and budget.
We are now offering both virtual and in-home consultations so call us at 1300 799 952 or schedule a free design consultation today!
