Popular Design Trends

New to interior decor? This quick and easy guide defines many of the most popular design trends. Before you shop, start here to figure out what works for your space.

1.) Mid-Century Modern

Modern furniture reached its peak with mid-century modern design, becoming one of the most enduring design trends. This style is all about removing unnecessary decorative elements and pairing down to the essentials. This concept works well for small, urban spaces. Modern furniture has clean lines, creating a minimalist style. Many of the silhouette are instantly recognizable. Designers experimented with form and asymmetry, creating breakthrough designs. Deep colors like olive and chocolate brown are common, as well as glass surfaces.

2.) Contemporary

Contemporary is more than a design trend; it translates to cutting edge style. Rooted and influenced by mid-century modern, contemporary furnishings have lots of sleek lines. Muted and neutral colors are common. But there are also lots of curves as well as exciting pops of color. In general, organic materials balance manufactured pieces. The overall energy is graphic. Black and white photography matches the decor. The hallmarks of this style are solid colors, metal frames, and simple shapes.

3.) Industrial

Urban areas are full of old factories and brick-wall lofts. This design trend is all about working with pre-existing conditions. It matches industrial furnishings with what is already there. This style of furniture is made from metal, often steel and copper. Popular pieces are made from distressed wood as well, including reclaimed wood. The flaws in the timber tell hidden stories. The open floor plan of this design trend is a big bonus for urban residents. Furniture is large and durable and often factory made. Also popular are turn of the century leather furnishings.

4.) Traditional

This classic design trend recalls famous interiors you might find while touring historic homes. Guidelines include symmetry, lots of decorative additions, and coordinated design details. Many of the antique furnishings that make up this style can be found as reproductions. The ornate craftsmanship and soft curves of traditional furniture can be found at affordable prices. Another feature of this style is the beautiful upholstery. This style favors fabrics in muted colors, with simple floral or stripe patterns.

5.) Scandinavian

Scandinavian design has had an immense impact on mid-century modern furniture. Even so, it is a unique design trend with its own character. The far north has long periods of darkness, so Scandinavian architecture emphasizes light. Architecture features lots of windows. Similarly, light colors, like white and muted grey, define the interiors. Accent colors, especially blue, play an important role. The furnishings have fluid lines as well as an accessible style. Scandinavian interiors couple intelligence in engineering with a love of nature.

6.) Bohemian

This eclectic design trend is for people with a thriving and creative energy. It attracts people with a passion for texture and pattern. It uses decorative, vintage items found in antique stores. Decorate your space with fabrics, tapestries, textiles, and animal hides or prints. Warm colors like reds and purples are important. Transform more mundane furniture with unusual throws and pillows. Another approach is to bring antique furnishings together with a vintage rug. Distressed metals and woods create character and are prized for this style.

7.) Rustic Country

Country living is more than a design a trend; it is an icon, recalling simpler times. Rustic, rough-hewn furniture has sought-after character. Traditional crafts are important to this style. Try accenting them with raw slabs of natural wood. This style is all about cozy interiors; use lots of floral or striped fabrics and vintage patterns. The emphasis is on functionality and history. Proudly display your flea market finds. Primitive furnishings have stories that enrich spaces.

8.) Shabby Chic

Shabby Chic has a fun, airy energy. Out of all the design trends, this one is for people who love shopping for antiques. It recalls bright cottages dressed in floral patterns. Milk paint on aged wood furniture is the signature look of this design trend. Signs of wear and tear are essential to achieving the look. Decorative accents include fringe and slipcovers for your sofas. Pastels, lily whites, and undyed linens form the traditional color palette of this style, but experimentation is encouraged.