Interior Decorating 

Mid-century modern interiors can be seen throughout AMC’s hit TV show “Mad Men,” as the design era came to life during the 1940s-70s. Mid-century modern homes have a seamless flow from the inside to the outside thanks to sliding doors, picture windows, skylights and patios. Windows are often left bare to emphasize outdoor views. The furniture is entirely unique, featuring statement pieces like marshmallow sofas and egg chairs. Many pieces, such as the Noguchi table, are asymmetrical and feature amorphous components, which make them feel more like sculptures than pieces of furniture [Attfield 1997]. Elements like floors and ceiling beams are stripped down to their original form, while walls are dressed up with graphic wallpaper featuring bold geometric patterns. Prominent Mid-Century Modern designers include Frank Lloyd Wright, Charles and Ray Eames, Arne Jacobsen, Eero Saarinen, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, Isamu Noguchi and Hans Wegner.

Farmhouse interiors share similar characteristics to cottage homes. A combination of whites is used on everything from furniture to linens, and the ambiance is warmed up using weathered woods and rustic finishes like oil-rubbed bronze and copper. Wood countertops, open shelving, farmhouse sinks and brick accent walls characterize the design. Tables are often classic vintage farm tables and made up of high-quality woods like maple or oak. Fabrics like bedding and drapes feature charming patterns like historical and pastoral scenes. Mason jars are used for storing kitchen and bathroom essentials because they offer a charming, rustic feel to the interior.

Minimalist homes are free of any clutter, only displaying items like couches, tables and light fixtures that are essential for functional living. Minimalist interiors have a focus on simplicity and effortless beauty. Character is brought forth not through detail, but through natural materials and essential items. Rooms are monochromatic, usually featuring subdued neutrals. Walls are kept simple with only one or two decorative pieces, like a canvas or a mirror. All surfaces, from the kitchen to the bathroom should be completely cleared off. Furniture features clean lines with very little detail, and they often double as storage, like ottomans that open up to reveal space. Architectural minimalism is influenced by Japanese Zen philosophy and the aesthetic principles of Ma and Wabi-sabi, which appreciate the value of empty space and absence of ornamentation.

Contemporary style is often interchanged with modern design – however, there are a few differences. Unlike its modern counterpart, contemporary style borrows from various time periods, creating an eclectic environment. For instance, sleek, simple furniture and art can be combined with detailed molding around walls and windows. Contemporary style also takes a note from minimal home design, as layouts are open and airy with no clutter in sight. Furnishings have sharp, 90-degree angles and are upholstered with simple fabrics such as wool, cotton and linen that have no ornamentation or patterns. Instead, sofas, chairs and stools are covered in neutral colors like black, white and tan. No fringe, skirts, trim or tassels can be found on contemporary furniture, as all legs are exposed. Light fixtures are made up of sleek materials like glass, ceramic, polished nickel or stainless steel.

Industrial interiors give off a cool, modern vibe. The style blends new and repurposed items for a unique combination of modern and vintage. Industrial design is characterized by clean open spaces – every room from the kitchen to the basement contains high, spacious loft-like ceilings. Color palettes are kept cool and subdued – you’ll often see a mix of grays, blacks and whites complemented by pops of blues or greens. Metal is the most often used material in industrial design. It offers a rugged charm and can be used on anything from light fixtures and countertops to stairwells and faucets. Industrial chic decor has become the style of choice for many urban loft spaces that were formerly factories, schools or other old buildings with exposed brick and rafter ceilings.

Eclectic home design embraces numerous styles such as modern, vintage and bohemian. A variety of materials and textures are also mixed and matched – you might see a leather sofa combined with a plush rug, a weathered wood table, wrought iron pendants and chrome wall decor. Unlike minimalist styles, eclectic interiors are often filled with various knick-knacks, like vintage dinnerware, modern sculptures, flower vases, etc. Mastering an eclectic home is all about drawing on a number of different textures, colors and styles for a unique environment filled with personality. Despite the variety, this style is not chaotic or haphazard. There are cohesive motifs and themes that tie the disparate pieces together. A common thread such as a recurring neutral tone or shape is often used to subtly connect the varied pieces and create a sense of belonging.

Shabby chic presents a balance of rustic and glamorous styles. Its name is credited to London designer Rachel Ashwell who was inspired by treasured “finds” she discovered at flea markets. Furniture of this style appears worn and distressed with painted layers. Fabrics on sofas, bedding and curtains are typically made of cotton and feature white or pastel colors to keep the room looking soft and delicate. Commonly used materials include weathered wood, wrought iron and wicker. Kitchen tables are constructed out of warm lumber and feature a textured area rug underneath. Tables are set with vintage teacups and linen napkins and vintage chandeliers light up the room. Overall, a beachy, airy ambiance can be found throughout shabby chic interiors. The wear-and-tear look is similar to French Country and Cottage style decor.

​Bohemian-style homes are equipped with a laid-back atmosphere and place an emphasis on nature, intricate patterns and bright colors like purples, reds and pinks. In fact, all of these elements are frequently combined to create an eclectic and unique aesthetic. Boho chic is all about mixing interesting colors, trinkets, fabrics and various types of furniture without any intention of matching or adhering to a specific style, much like the nomadic vagabonds who inspired it. 

Coastal style gives off a relaxed, subdued and carefree vibe. Beach-inspired elements such as sand dollars, sea glass and driftwood are used as decor throughout the home. A crisp white color palette is common in coastal style, with occasional splashes of blues, greens, aquas and corals. Light is a central element in coastal interior design, therefore, homes feature plenty of glass doors, skylights and windows. Coastal furniture typically comes with a lived-in, by-the-sea feel, so you’ll often see painted wood chairs and tables with a distressed finish or a natural woven wicker chair. Light fixtures also use natural elements to keep up the beachy ambiance. Chandeliers made up of cascading petals of sea glass or hanging wooden pendants that feature a worn away finish are both appropriate for a coastal home.