5 Most Popular Interior Design Styles and What Sets Them Apart
There are many different interior design styles, each with their own unique characteristics and aesthetic. Here are five of the most popular interior design styles:
1. Contemporary: Contemporary design is characterized by clean lines, minimalism, and neutral color palettes. It often incorporates materials like metal, glass, and concrete, and features an emphasis on function and simplicity.
2. Traditional: Traditional design is inspired by classic European styles, and often features ornate details, rich colors, and luxurious fabrics. It incorporates elements like curved furniture, decorative moldings, and antique pieces.
3. Modern: Modern design is characterized by simplicity, clean lines, and a focus on function. It often incorporates materials like steel, glass, and concrete, and features an emphasis on open spaces and natural light.
4. Industrial: Industrial design is inspired by the look of factories and warehouses, and often incorporates materials like exposed brick, concrete, and metal. It features an emphasis on function and practicality, and often incorporates vintage or salvaged items.
5. Scandinavian: Scandinavian design is characterized by simplicity, functionality, and a focus on natural materials. It often incorporates light colors, clean lines, and minimalism, and features an emphasis on creating cozy, inviting spaces.
What is the difference between “modern” and “contemporary” design?
The terms "modern" and "contemporary" are often used interchangeably, but they actually refer to two distinct interior design styles.
Modern design refers to a style that emerged in the early to mid-20th century, characterized by clean lines, simplicity, and a focus on function. Modern design often incorporates materials like steel, glass, and concrete, and features an emphasis on open spaces and natural light. It is often associated with the work of designers like Le Corbusier, Mies van der Rohe, and Charles and Ray Eames.
Contemporary design, on the other hand, refers to a style that is characterized by the current design trends and ideas of the present day. Contemporary design is constantly evolving and incorporates a wide range of influences, materials, and styles. It often features a neutral color palette, clean lines, and an emphasis on minimalism and functionality. Unlike modern design, contemporary design is not tied to a specific time period or design movement.
In summary, modern design is a specific style that emerged in the mid-20th century, while contemporary design refers to the design trends and ideas of the present day, which are constantly evolving and changing.
Sherwin-Williams Paint Color Suggestions Per Style
Contemporary
Contemporary design is constantly evolving, and there is no single set of paint colors that are universally associated with the style. However, some paint colors that are popular choices for this design style include:
1. Requisite Gray (SW 7023)
2. Pure White (SW 7005)
3. Black Magic (SW 6991)
4. Repose Gray (SW 7015)
5. Naval (SW 6244)
6. Urbane Bronze (SW 7048)
Traditional
Traditional design is often associated with rich, warm colors that create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Colors that are commonly used with traditional design include:
1. Accessible Beige (SW 7036)
2. Creamy (SW 7012)
3. Anew Gray (SW 7030)
4. Red Bay (SW 6321)
5. Roycroft Copper Red (SW 2839)
6. Rookwood Dark Red (SW 2801)
Modern
Modern design is characterized by a focus on simplicity, minimalism, and clean lines. Consider using the following paint colors in your space:
1. Pure White (SW 7005)
2. Repose Gray (SW 7015)
3. Black Magic (SW 6991)
4. Silver Strand (SW 7057)
5. Urbane Bronze (SW 7048)
6. Naval (SW 6244)
Industrial
Industrial design is characterized by a focus on raw, unfinished materials such as metal, brick, and concrete. Homeowners may often select the following colors:
1. Iron Ore (SW 7069)
2. Tricorn Black (SW 6258)
3. Gauntlet Gray (SW 7019)
4. Urbane Bronze (SW 7048)
5. Peppercorn (SW 7674)
6. Iron Works (SW 7069)
Scandinavian
Scandinavian design is characterized by a focus on light, neutral color palettes that create a calm, serene atmosphere. Individuals have elected to use the following colors more often than not:
1. Alabaster (SW 7008)
2. Repose Gray (SW 7015)
3. Snowbound (SW 7004)
4. Drift of Mist (SW 9166)
5. Silvermist (SW 7621)
6. Mindful Gray (SW 7016)