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33 Interior Design Styles You Need to Know in 2025

Published on May 9th 2025
interior design styles

Interior design styles shape how we experience our homes, transforming mere walls and floors into spaces that reflect our personalities, values and aspirations. The right design approach doesn't just make a room look good — it creates an environment that feels right, functioning as both a place to lay your head and a canvas for self-expression. Think of it as the difference between a house and a home: one simply shelters you; the other captures who you are.

Gone are the days when choosing a style meant committing to rigid rules and predictable formulas. Today's most popular interior design styles dance between multiple influences, cherry-picking elements that resonate personally while discarding outdated conventions for chic, modern interior design styles. Ready to discover which aesthetic speaks to your soul? Dive into our selection of interior design styles that range from time-honored classics to emerging movements redefining how we think about how we live in our homes.

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Contemporary and Modern Interior Design Styles

Clean lines, bold shapes and effortlessly cool aesthetics are the sweet spot for many when remodeling their homes, and contemporary and modern interior design styles have long been staples in stylish homes. Focusing on form-meets-function, these styles bring a polished edge that still feels approachable. Contemporary interior design thrives on balance, while modern interior design styles often lean into minimalism with a side of statement-making accents. Ready to level up your space? Let's explore the sleek and stylish designs redefining interiors this year.

1. Strip It Back With Minimalist Magic

interior designers nyc chango
Minimalist, where less is more (via Canva)

Less really can be more — especially when every piece in the room has a purpose. Think clean surfaces, subdued palettes and zero visual clutter. It's all about intentional simplicity that still packs a visual punch.

2. Let Materials Dance With Mixed Metals

Contemporary spaces thrive on thoughtful tension. Especially when various metal finishes engage in what's best described as "visual dialogue." For example, copper pendant lights can dance beautifully with brass cabinet hardware and matte black fixtures when they're all unified by consistent shapes and proportions. That's some serious eye candy.

3. Bring the Heat With Mid-Century Modern Cool

Mid-Century modern interior
Classically cool Mid-Century Modern (via Canva)

Retro gets a refresh in mid-century modern, a forever-favorite style. With tapered legs, warm woods and bold pops of color, it's the perfect blend of vintage soul and modern sensibility. Toss in one of these IKEA desk hacks and watch your workspace go from "meh" to magazine-worthy.

4. Add a Dash of Monochrome Drama

A black-and-white palette can be anything but boring when you play with texture and shape. Layer in high-gloss finishes, matte details and graphic contrasts for a space that's moody, modern and totally chic.

5. Go High-Gloss With Futuristic Flair

Futuristic
Your home as a spaceship (via Canva)

Think mirrored surfaces, LED accents and chrome details that look straight out of tomorrow. For extra visual impact, incorporate one of our IKEA mirror hacks to reflect light and create the illusion of a larger space — futuristic and functional.

6. Celebrate Negative Space as a Design Element

The art of nothing becomes something powerful in contemporary interior design. Strategic empty spaces around furniture groupings, artwork and architectural features let rooms "breathe" while drawing attention to what remains. This is the design equivalent of a timely pause in a good conversation.

7. Apply Color Blocking Beyond the Canvas

Color Blocking
Go bold with color blocking (via masquespacio)

Bold geometric compositions of color make two-dimensional statements on three-dimensional spaces. This is one of those modern interior design styles that create visual energy through carefully considered color relationships that organize and define areas without physical barriers.

8. Keep It Flexible With Modular Furniture

In true modern spirit, function meets flexibility with modular seating, stackable tables and movable pieces that adapt to your life. Add a few clever IKEA hacks to keep your space stylish and storage-savvy.

9. Light It Up With Statement Fixtures

Lighting becomes art in modern and contemporary spaces. Oversized pendants, geometric sconces or sculptural floor lamps are all fair game — go bold or go home.

10 Bring Nature In for a Fresh, Lively Feel

Biophilic
Nature in da house (via Canva)

Plants are the perfect way to soften the sharp lines of modern interiors. Think living walls, large indoor trees or a bunch of smaller plants grouped together. Not only do they add life to your space, but they can also boost your mood and clean the air. Consider the functional, yet stylish biophilic design concept. 

11. Play With Balance to Keep It Interesting

Modern design is known for its clean, structured look, but adding a little imbalance can make things more exciting. Try hanging art slightly off-center, grouping furniture to one side, or choosing a bold focal point that's a little unexpected. It adds visual energy without feeling chaotic.

Most Popular Interior Design Styles

Some design styles never go out of fashion; they keep reinventing themselves in clever, cozy or downright stunning ways. These enduring aesthetics have proven their staying power by adapting to changing times while maintaining their core identity. They strike that perfect balance between familiarity and freshness, making spaces timeless and relevant. Each has a distinct personality that resonates with different homeowners, from those who love traditional elegance to fans of casual comfort. Let's explore these crowd-pleasing design approaches that continue to define how we live today.

12. Embrace the Comfort of Farmhouse Style

ikea hack farmhouse buffet
Farm to table - literally (via Canva)

Rustic wood, cozy textures and vintage accents come together in this warm and welcoming look. Farmhouse style blends practicality with charm, creating a space that feels both lived-in and beautifully curated.

13. Industrial Style Softens Its Edges

Raw materials and exposed structural elements remain key to industrial spaces, but today's versions incorporate more comfort. Softer textiles, warmer lighting and strategic DIY home decor pieces balance the inherent coolness of concrete, metal and brick.

14. Find Peace in Scandinavian Simplicity

scandinavian kitchen cabinet ideas
Scandi simplicity (via Canva)

Clean lines, soft neutrals and natural textures make Scandinavian interiors feel airy and serene. It's a calm, clutter-free approach that still leaves room for personality.

15. Coastal Style Ditches the Kitsch

Forget the seashell soap dishes. Modern coastal interior design captures seaside vibes through a sophisticated lens with layered blues, natural textures and plenty of white space. The result? Rooms that feel breezy and bright without screaming "beach theme."

16. Japandi Fuses Eastern and Western Minimalism

Japandi
East meets west (via Canva)

This hybrid style marries Japanese simplicity with Scandinavian functionality. The result is Japandi design, serene spaces featuring natural materials, thoughtful craftsmanship and an unmistakable sense of calm, making this one of the fastest-growing interior design styles today.

17. Embrace Bohemian Vibes 

Free-spirited bohemian interiors now feature more carefully curated collections rather than casual clutter. Handmade textiles, global influences and rich color stories create spaces that feel collected over time, even when they're newly designed.

18. Go Modern Mediterranean

Mediterranean interior
Bring the Med into your home (via Canva)

Terracotta, wrought iron and arched details give Mediterranean homes their relaxed, breezy vibe. Today's take keeps the warm tones and handcrafted charm while adding personal touches through cozy, creative home decor ideas.

19. Channel Your Inner Artist With Eclectic Design

Why pick one style when you can mix them all? Eclectic design lets you combine pieces from different eras and aesthetics — as long as there's balance, anything goes.

20. Let Nature Take the Lead With Organic Modern

Organic Modern
Add organic materials (via Canva)

Natural materials like wood, stone, and linen bring softness to sleek, modern interiors. It's a fresh, earthy approach that makes your space feel grounded yet sophisticated.

21. Lean Into Timeless Elegance With Traditional Design

Ornate furniture, rich fabrics and classic color schemes give traditional interiors their polished look. It's all about sophistication with a big side of comfort.

22. Make Your Space "Granny Chic"

Remember the warm feelings you got when you went to grandma's house and saw all the floral patterns and antique furniture? Give that style a youthful update with this nostalgic approach to interior design styles. The secret sauce? Mixing heirloom-inspired pieces with clean modern elements to keep spaces from feeling like a time capsule.

Interior Design Styles for a Small House

Small spaces can still make a big impact because it's all about choosing the right interior design styles that bring personality without clutter. With smart layouts, thoughtful decor and a little creativity, even the tiniest corners can feel fresh, stylish and surprisingly spacious. When deciding on interior design styles for a small house, you'll want to maximize light, flow and comfort, so your space works harder without feeling crowded. Here are some stylish interior design ideas for a small house to pack in all the personality you want without taking up extra space. 

23. Go Vertical With Modern Farmhouse Flair

vertical shelving
Stack the shelves high for small spaces (via Canva)

Rustic doesn't have to mean bulky. Use vertical shelving, wall-mounted lanterns and slimline furniture with farmhouse touches like distressed finishes and black metal accents. The mix of modern lines with vintage warmth makes this style work beautifully in tighter footprints.

24. Maximize Your Vertical Real Estate

When floor space is limited, look up! This is one of those interior design styles that uses tall bookshelves, hanging plants and high curtains to draw eyes upward. Wall-mounted shelving and storage keep essentials accessible without consuming precious floor space.

25. Try Mid-Century Modern for Functional Elegance

If you're looking for interior design styles for a small house, you should consider mid-century pieces made for compact living! Their clean lines, tapered legs and clever built-ins make this style a go-to for small homes. Plus, it's simple for you to layer in pops of color or patterns without overwhelming the space.

26. Transform Furniture into Storage Powerhouses

small space clever storage
Make compact spaces work for you (via Canva)

This practical style focuses on furniture that works twice as hard. Think ottomans with storage inside, beds with drawers beneath and coffee tables that expand for dining. This way, every piece earns its place by serving multiple functions. Now that's efficiency! 

27. Knock Down Walls, Amp Up Flow

If you really want to make the most use of the space you have, consider knocking down walls if you can. Removing unnecessary interior walls creates breathing room in tiny homes. Define different areas through area rugs, lighting changes or furniture groupings rather than solid dividers that block sightlines and light.

28. Add Boho Layers Without Overdoing It

Oh so Boho
Oh so Boho (via Canva)

Boho layering is all about combining textures. Think of artfully woven rugs, cozy throws, patterned pillows, macramé wall hangings and natural elements like rattan or wood. This is one of those interior design styles that lean into a relaxed, collected-over-time vibe that feels effortless yet inviting. To keep it stylish (not cluttered), layer in a few standout pieces instead of filling every corner. This softer approach brings warmth and character without overwhelming your small space.

29. Gift Stylish Essentials That Elevate a New Space

Do you have a friend or family member who just moved to a new place? Consider one of these thoughtful gifts for new homeowners! Get them some decorative accents like sculptural candle holders, sleek trays or minimalistic vases to instantly add personality without overwhelming a space. Practical meets polished is one to way to go. Even small touches — like a unique wall hook set or a cozy throw in a neutral palette — can make a big impact. These pieces don't just look good; they help make a new house feel like home from day one.

30. Unite Spaces with Color Consistency

Sticking to a unified color palette is one of the simplest interior design styles for a small house that creates a clean, spacious feel. Varying the tones — think soft sage, deep olive and pale mint — keeps things interesting without overwhelming the eye. Afloral provide a quick and to-the-point lesson in color theory for interior design. This approach helps rooms flow naturally into each other and avoids that disjointed, patchwork look that can make small spaces feel even tighter. Add visual depth with textured fabrics, patterned rugs or wall art in complementary hues to tie it all together seamlessly.

31. Use Mirrors to Multiply Light

Mirrors to Multiply Light
Add mirrors to Mirrors to multiply the light (via Canva)

Mirrors are one of the simplest, most effective ways to make a small space feel bigger and brighter. They bounce natural light around the room, helping to open things up and create the illusion of more square footage. Try placing a large mirror across from a window to maximize daylight or use a set of smaller mirrors as eye-catching wall décor. For an extra boost, pair your mirrors with glass tables or glossy surfaces reflecting light and adding to the airy, modern feel.

32. Shrink Tradition Without Losing Charm

Classic design doesn't have to mean bulky furniture or overdone details. You can still enjoy the elegance of traditional interior design styles by scaling everything down. Look for slim-profile chairs with tufted backs, compact roll-arm sofas or dainty pedestal tables that nod to tradition without dominating the room. Add finishing touches like vintage-inspired lamps or ornate mirrors to bring in that timeless charm — just in a size that works for your square footage.

33. Double Your Space with Indoor-Outdoor Flow

There's nothing like the great outdoors, so extend visual space by connecting your living room to the outdoors. You can use large windows and glass doors complemented by outdoor areas that function as extra rooms, which is a clever way to visually expand your living space if your home is short on square footage. The correct mirror placement that reflects outdoor views can also double the impact of this efficient space-enhancing approach.

Interior Design Styles FAQs

There's no shortage of inspiration regarding interior design styles, but finding what fits your space — and your vibe — can take a little trial and error. From identifying your personal aesthetic to figuring out which tools can help bring your vision to life, understanding the basics can make your design journey much smoother. Here are answers to some of the most common questions people ask when diving into interior design styles.

How Many Types of Interior Style Are There?

contemporary living room interior
Contemporary interior design (via Canva)

While there's no definitive count, design experts typically recognize about 20-30 major interior design styles, with countless variations and hybrid approaches. The core styles include Modern, Contemporary, Traditional, Industrial, Minimalist, Maximalist, Mid-Century Modern, Scandinavian, Bohemian, Farmhouse, Coastal, Mediterranean, Art Deco, Transitional, Biophilic, Japandi and Cottagecore. Each year brings new interpretations and fusion styles that blend elements from established aesthetics. All this makes interior design an ever-expanding space for creativity.

How Do You Know Your Interior Design Style?

Discovering your interior design style starts with paying attention to what you're naturally drawn to. Look at the images you save on social media, especially visual sites like Pinterest. Notice which rooms make you feel comfortable when visiting friends and consider which stores you gravitate toward when shopping for home items.

You also want to take note of patterns in your existing belongings. Do you prefer clean lines or ornate details, bright colors or neutrals, modern or vintage? There are many options to consider, so taking an online style quiz like this one from Havenly can provide helpful starting points. That said, the most reliable indicator is simply what makes you feel at home. Remember that most people don't fit perfectly into one interior design style but instead prefer a personalized blend.

Which App Is Best for Interior Design for Free?

Apps like Houzz, Planner 5D and Roomstyler are popular for experimenting with furniture placement and color palettes. Most offer free features that let you visualize your layout, test different interior design styles and plan your space before committing to big changes.

No matter your space, budget or personal taste, there's no shortage of creative ways to explore interior design styles that feel fresh, functional and uniquely you. Whether you lean minimalist or maximalist, love timeless elegance or crave modern flair, the right interior design style can completely transform how your space looks and feels. The best part? You don't have to stick to one approach because blending elements across interior design styles can lead to some of the most exciting and personal results.

For even more fun ideas for the home, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!Â