Figuring out your design style is an exciting journey that transforms your living space into a reflection of your personality and preferences. Whether you’re decorating a new home or refreshing a room, understanding how to figure out your design style helps you create a cohesive, visually appealing space. This guide offers 15 practical tips to uncover your unique aesthetic, ensuring your home feels authentically yours.
Table of Contents
Why Knowing Your Design Style Matters
Your design style is the foundation of your home’s aesthetic. It guides decisions about furniture, colors, textures, and decor, creating harmony in your space. Without a clear style, rooms can feel disjointed or overwhelming. By learning how to figure out your design style, you gain confidence in your choices and create a space that feels intentional and inviting.
Step 1: Explore Inspiration Platforms
Start by browsing platforms like Pinterest, Instagram, or Houzz. Search for terms like “home decor ideas” or “living room inspiration” to see what resonates. Save images that catch your eye, noting common themes in colors, patterns, or furniture. These platforms are treasure troves for discovering how to figure out your design style.
For more room-specific ideas, check out our room-specific decor blog for tailored inspiration.
Step 2: Identify Your Favorite Colors
Color plays a massive role in design. Reflect on hues that make you feel happy or calm. Do you gravitate toward bold jewel tones, soft pastels, or neutral earth tones? Your color preferences can point to styles like bohemian, minimalist, or coastal. Write down three to five colors you love to narrow down your aesthetic.
Step 3: Take a Style Quiz
Online quizzes are a fun, structured way to pinpoint your design style. Websites like Havenly or Apartment Therapy offer free quizzes that analyze your preferences. These tools provide insights into styles like mid-century modern, Scandinavian, or eclectic, helping you understand how to figure out your design style.
Step 4: Assess Your Current Space
Look at your existing furniture and decor. What pieces do you love? Which ones feel out of place? Your favorite items often hint at your style. For example, sleek metal furniture might suggest industrial, while plush textiles lean toward cozy farmhouse. This reflection is key to uncovering your aesthetic.
Step 5: Consider Your Lifestyle
Your design style should align with how you live. If you have kids or pets, a practical, durable style like modern farmhouse might suit you. If you love hosting, an open, elegant style like transitional could work. Think about functionality to ensure your style fits your daily life.
Step 6: Experiment with Mood Boards
Create a mood board to visualize your ideas. Use digital tools like Canva or a physical board with magazine clippings. Combine images, colors, and textures that inspire you. This exercise helps you see how elements work together, clarifying how to figure out your design style.
Step 7: Learn About Design Styles
Familiarize yourself with popular design styles to see what resonates. Here’s a quick overview:
- Minimalist: Clean lines, neutral colors, and simplicity.
- Bohemian: Vibrant colors, patterns, and eclectic decor.
- Industrial: Raw materials like metal and exposed brick.
- Coastal: Light blues, whites, and natural textures.
- Mid-Century Modern: Retro shapes, bold colors, and sleek furniture.
For a deeper dive, explore The Spruce’s guide to design styles for expert insights.
Step 8: Notice Patterns and Textures
Pay attention to patterns and textures you’re drawn to. Do you love geometric prints, floral motifs, or solid fabrics? Are you into smooth leather, nubby linen, or shiny metallics? These preferences can steer you toward specific styles, refining your approach to how to figure out your design style.
Step 9: Visit Showrooms or Open Houses
Seeing furniture and decor in person can spark inspiration. Visit furniture showrooms, design stores, or open houses in your area. Note what catches your eye and how pieces are styled. This hands-on approach helps you connect with your aesthetic in a tangible way.
Step 10: Mix and Match Styles
Don’t feel boxed into one style. Many people blend elements from multiple aesthetics, like bohemian with mid-century modern or industrial with Scandinavian. Experiment with combinations to create a unique look that feels personal.
Step 11: Pay Attention to Architecture
Your home’s architecture can influence your design style. A historic home might suit traditional or vintage decor, while a modern apartment could lean minimalist or industrial. Consider your space’s bones when exploring how to figure out your design style.
Step 12: Seek Feedback from Friends
Sometimes, others notice patterns you overlook. Ask friends or family what style they think suits you. They might point out your love for cozy throws or bold artwork, offering fresh perspectives on your aesthetic.
Step 13: Test Small Decor Changes
Not ready to overhaul your space? Start small. Swap out throw pillows, add a new rug, or hang artwork. These low-commitment changes let you experiment with styles without a big investment, helping you discover what works.
For budget-friendly decor tips, browse our room-specific decor ideas.
Step 14: Trust Your Instincts
Your design style should feel authentic to you. If something sparks joy, incorporate it, even if it doesn’t fit a specific category. Your home is a reflection of you, so trust your gut when deciding how to figure out your design style.
Step 15: Evolve Over Time
Your style may change as you grow. What you love today might shift in a few years, and that’s okay. Stay open to evolving your aesthetic as your tastes and lifestyle change. Regularly revisit these steps to keep your space aligned with your vision.
FAQs About How to Figure Out Your Design Style
What is a design style, and why is it important?
A design style is a cohesive aesthetic that guides your decor choices, from colors to furniture. It’s important because it creates harmony in your space and reflects your personality.
How do I know if a design style suits me?
Test elements of the style in your space, like colors or textures, and see how they feel. If they resonate and fit your lifestyle, it’s likely a good match.
Can I mix multiple design styles?
Absolutely! Blending styles, like bohemian with industrial, creates a unique, personalized look. Just ensure there’s a unifying element, like color or texture.
How long does it take to figure out my design style?
It varies. Some pinpoint their style in weeks, while others take months of experimenting. Be patient and enjoy the process.
Where can I find inspiration for my design style?
Platforms like Pinterest, Instagram, and design blogs are great starting points. You can also explore The Spruce or our room-specific decor blog for ideas.
Final Thoughts
Discovering how to figure out your design style is a rewarding process that brings clarity and joy to decorating. By exploring inspiration, reflecting on your preferences, and experimenting with small changes, you’ll uncover an aesthetic that feels uniquely yours. Start with these 15 tips, trust your instincts, and create a home that tells your story.
For more decor ideas, visit our room-specific decor blog to keep your inspiration flowing.