The second section of our in-depth glossary reviews styles that range from relaxed rural looks to formal sophisticated aesthetics.
Baroque
Baroque interior design isn’t just a style—it’s a full-blown spectacle, the superstar diva of design history. Picture 17th-century Europe rolling out the red carpet, determined to dazzle every houseguest with maximum extravagance. Everything screams drama. Furniture here isn’t just functional. It enters the room making an entrance, with towering silhouettes, swirling woodwork and gold accents flashy enough to make a crown jealous. Walnut and ebony woods, marble surfaces and buckets of gold leaf telegraph pure luxury.
In a Baroque room, curves are mandatory. S-shapes, C-scrolls and sweeping arches spiral through chairs, ceilings and… basically everywhere. It’s as if the architecture just got back from a Zumba class. Touch is just as important as sight. Velvet drapes? Of course. Silk upholstery? Naturally. Patterns like damask flock the walls, practically begging you to run your hands across them (with clean fingers, please).
And let’s talk colors. Baroque doesn’t do beige. Instead, it’s all deep crimson, lush emerald, royal blue plus that ever-present splash of gold, like someone raided a Renaissance artist’s paintbox. Classic pieces include high-drama cassoni (those marriage chests brimming with detail) and monumental chairs with more curves and carvings than a plot twist in a telenovela.
Bernini and Boulle set the gold standard for ornate furniture and bold interior schemes, so don’t be surprised if you spot their handiwork in the world’s grandest palaces. Add a chandelier brighter than paparazzi flashbulbs and you’ve got a Baroque showstopper. For soul-soothing subtlety, look elsewhere. Baroque’s here to steal the scene every time.
Bauhaus
Bauhaus interiors are what happens when geometric forms meet practical design. Starting in Germany in 1919, this style remains timeless, always feeling fresh and uncluttered. Instead of decorative extras, you’ll see circles, squares and triangles coming together in balanced, harmonious ways. It’s like a minimalist group effort bringing calm and order to your space. Surfaces stay polished, matte or glassy, letting industrial materials like tubular steel and concrete take a confident bow. Textures? Expect smooth operator vibes with the occasional pop of leather or painted wood for balance.
Color is a science experiment. It’s mostly neutral whites, blacks and greys, frequently interrupted (surprise!) by a hit of primary red, yellow or blue in just the right dose. Think architectural “Easter eggs” but less “Easter” and more “art school cool”. Adaptability is the name of the game. Furniture pieces fold, stack and adapt faster than a Transformer at a design fair [Droste 2002]. Legendary icons aren’t just museum fodder: Marcel Breuer’s Wassily Chair and Cesca Chair, Willie Wagenfeld’s glass-and-metal lamp and Mies van der Rohe’s Barcelona Chair are still kicking it in stylish living rooms today.
Designers like Walter Gropius, Marianne Brandt, Josef and Anni Albers, Paul Klee and Marcel Breuer were the Bauhaus dream team. They combined art, science and a dash of rebellion to create pieces that are more “Mad Men” than grandma’s sitting room. In a world where form follows function, Bauhaus invites us to live smarter, bolder and just a little bit sharper.
Beach House
Beach House design brings that laid-back, breezy mood straight from the shoreline to your living room. Imagine walls that let sunlight bounce, floors that welcome sandy toes and a color palette borrowed from the best day at the beach: soft white, sand beige and blue that would make the ocean jealous. A pop of coral or splash of turquoise sneaks in for character.
Nature’s textures dominate the aesthetic, but it isn’t all seashells and daydreams. Wicker and rattan furniture keep things light and effortlessly stylish. Whitewashed or reclaimed wood puts the “salty air patina” in every chair and table. Iconic anchor pieces? Slipcovered sofas so comfortable they practically beg for an afternoon nap and weathered dining tables ready for an impromptu seafood spread.
Textile game is strong—cotton, linen and canvas are the MVPs, keeping things cool on steamy afternoons. Layer up with a chunky jute rug or let a seagrass basket wrangle those extra throws. Driftwood accents and sea glass bowls bring the shoreline inside without leaving you sweeping up actual sand. Light fixtures often lean nautical with rope, lanterns or subtle “buoy, oh buoy” nods to the sea.
Big names like Barbara Barry and Alexa Hampton have given beachy style a refined spin but you won’t need a golden ticket to pull it off. This design is about comfort, connection and letting the sunshine in with windows wide open.
Bohemian
Bohemian design, or boho chic if you want to impress at brunch, is what happens when an art student’s gap year turns into a global shopping spree and they never quite unpack. It’s home decor on vacation, where rules are optional and the only thing that matches is your enthusiasm. Mixing is encouraged—color, pattern, eras—because life’s too short for identical throw pillows. Sapphire, ruby, mustard and every color in between crash-land on earthy browns and greens like they own the place. You could say the more colors, the merrier and boho does, loudly.
But, let’s talk texture. Velvet pillows lounge on rattan thrones, macrame hangs out in every corner and fringe waves at you like it’s in a parade. If it’s plush, shiny, woven or “found on that one wild trip,” it’s invited. Persian rugs and hand-carved woods provide a global passport for wandering feet, while thrifted ceramics and family heirlooms swap stories in every nook. No one’s checking IDs at this party; if it sparks joy (or even mild curiosity), it has earned a spot.
Furniture? Think of it as the coolest house party you’ve ever been to. Everyone’s different but nobody feels out of place. The peacock chair is Insta-famous, the Butterfly chair is your ultimate lounge buddy and vintage finds play nicely with today’s treasures. Add liberal doses of draping plants, mismatched planters and light that glows from lanterns, beaded lamps or whatever you can string up. Designers like Justina Blakeney know how to spin this playful chaos into something that feels both artfully collected and totally comfortable.
In a boho space, every corner shows off a little rebellion and a lot of warmth—kind of like your favorite playlist but with more paisley and fewer rules.
Brazilian
Brazilian interior design makes it easy to feel comfortable and stylish at the same time. It really took off in the mid-1900s as a chill alternative to the more serious styles like Bauhaus and Mid-Century Modern—think beach party, not board meeting. In these spaces, you’ll find great craftsmanship, but a few quirks are welcome. It’s the design equivalent of tousled hair that still looks great.
You’ll spot lots of tropical woods like jacaranda, peroba and imbuia, plus bamboo, cane and soft leather for extra coziness. Floors are usually wide wood planks or concrete—sometimes whitewashed, sometimes stained, but always ready for barefoot dancing. Furniture likes to keep its curves, with comfy cushions and strong wooden frames showing off the wood’s natural beauty. Basically, everything’s inviting you to sit and stay a while.
Colors keep things breezy. Neutral or bright white walls give way to bold botanical prints, pops of green and colorful fabrics. Indoor plants fill every corner—because in Brazil, even the furniture likes company. Details like terracotta pots, woven baskets and light curtains make the place feel friendly and full of texture.
No Brazilian room is complete without a design star or two. Look out for Sergio Rodrigues’ Mole Chair—which basically begs you to flop down—Joaquim Tenreiro’s 3-Legged Chair and Paulo Mendes da Rocha’s Paulistano Armchair. These pieces mix modern vibes with Mother Nature, all with a big Brazilian smile.
British Colonial
British Colonial style is where British formality takes a vacation in the tropics, cocktail in hand. Originating in the heyday of the Empire (think 18th to 19th centuries across the West Indies, India and Africa), the look marries stately British tradition with breezy local flair. Furniture is the star—think mahogany or teak with silhouettes inspired by the likes of Chippendale, but detailed by local hands. You’ll spot turned legs, curvy lines, caned sides and the occasional rattan cameo. Wicker and woven seagrass cheerfully join the party, letting spaces breathe even when the humidity rises.
Travel trunks with time-worn leather and shiny brass hardware are more than just a nod to Indiana Jones—they double as statement coffee tables and secret storage. The color story stays easy-breezy with ivories, beiges and cocoa browns, sometimes highlighted by a dash of palm green, reminding you that a rainstorm could be brewing outside. Sheer cotton or linen fabrics on drapes and bedding keep things cool and crisp, while ferns and palms (bonus points if you don’t kill them) soften the stately look with a whiff of fresh air.
Texture is kind of a show-off here. Silky woods, handwoven cloth and nubby rush seats play off each other, making the room feel gathered and globe-trotting but never stuffy. Classic bell jar lanterns hang overhead and ceiling fans with broad wood blades keep you from melting. It’s a collected style, with a wink at adventure and a high-five to craftsmanship—essentially Downton Abbey goes full vacation mode. And yes, you can absolutely put your feet up.
Carolean
Carolean style, also known as Restoration chic, struts onto the scene at the tail end of England’s buttoned-up Cromwell era, bringing a flair for the dramatic that would make any Bridgerton jealous. Picture sculptural high-backed chairs with baluster legs and arms so curvy they’d win a ballroom dance-off. Textures here absolutely steal the spotlight. Think lush velvet and shimmering damask, both perfect for practicing your royal wave. If you find deep reds, shimmering golds, or stately greens calling your name, welcome home—you’re channeling Carolean color vibes.
Materials matter in this look. Walnut runs the show, showing off its rich hues and luxe grains, sometimes jazzed up with marquetry or a splash of gilded finish. Even the hardware gets in on the act, with brass pulls and hinges providing a cinematic golden glow. This era loves elaborate carving—fruits, flowers and scrolls adorn everything but your morning toast.
Lighting shouldn’t be subtle; chandeliers drip with drama and wall sconces shine like leading ladies. Table lamps are a 21st-century cameo, but if you want to riff on history, drape your lampshades in silk with a fringe as flirty as a Regency bonnet.
Although the movement didn’t churn out rockstar designers with Instagram followings, craftspeople like Thomas Roberts and Gerrit Jensen set the gold (and walnut) standard for eye-catching pieces, like the intricately carved daybed or grand canopy beds that dare you not to nap regally. Carolean interiors manage to look grand yet inviting—it’s all about mixing formal swagger with a little wink of comfort.
Chinese
Chinese interior design is basically zen with a cool twist. It’s all about finding your balance, letting harmony do its thing and letting nature and tradition work their magic with a hint of good luck for good measure. No clutter monsters here. Every item knows its role and the whole place feels wide open, relaxed and swimming in good vibes. It’s not Hogwarts, but you might notice a little magic floating around anyway.
Colors here have superpowers. Red brings luck, gold shouts money, black keeps out bad vibes and brown is basically the chill friend everyone needs. These shades don’t just sit on the sidelines, they mingle and pop against each other like the cast of a reality show but in a much classier way.
Typical materials include rosewood, elm and bamboo. They’re strong enough to survive almost anything. Textures keep things interesting: glossy lacquer for a hint of royalty, silky screens, carved wood and just enough mother of pearl to say, “Look at me!” but not, “Look at ONLY me!”
Furniture pieces like kang tables and yoke-back chairs are the rock stars of the room. You’ll see dragons, mountains and birds painted on everything, just flexing the craftsmanship muscle. Perfect joins, symmetry and those smooth curves make even the chairs look relaxed.
Paper lanterns and splashy chandeliers keep the light cozy or showy depending on your mood. Porcelain and screens pull it all together. Shout-out to Lu Qianshou and the ancient Ming and Qing designers—they basically set the bar. The end result? A home that’s chill, classy and packed with more style than a dumpling has filling.
Chippendale
Chippendale style glides into the design scene like the James Bond of 18th-century furniture—classy, original and ever so smooth. Born from Thomas Chippendale’s legendary 1754 design manual, this look is the lovechild of Gothic drama, Rococo flair and a twist of Chinese elegance [Yingquan, Lei & Qi 2013]. Imagine chairs with backs that swirl and curve, pierce and twist, echoing both regal archways and Far East artistry—a true multitasker in style.
If you spot a cabriole leg or a ball-and-claw foot, give credit to Chippendale’s signature moves. These forms aren’t just for show; they balance grace with a reliable strength. Mahogany is the MVP wood, prized for its ability to handle detailed carvings (and maybe a pet cat leaping for the top shelf). Walnut and cherry sometimes make guest appearances, just to keep things interesting.
Texture is all about the touch of luxury—think velvet, silk or damask on well-cushioned seats, but always in relaxed tones like cream, soft brown or subtle gold. Fabrics might whisper, never shout, even when the metal hardware flashes a hint of bronze or gold.
Look for icons such as the highboy chest, camelback sofa and the ever-sassy ribbon-back chair. While Thomas Chippendale broke the mold, talents like Thomas Affleck and Robert Adam took the torch stateside, especially in posh American Federal interiors. Crystal chandeliers and wood paneling add that Downton Abbey aura, but the real magic? Chippendale makes stately feel inviting, never stiff. Timeless, a little playful and always ready for its close-up.
Coastal
Coastal interior design is basically your VIP pass to vacation mode—minus the SPF and sandy toes. The vibe? Effortlessly chill, like your living room caught the sea breeze and decided to stay on permanent holiday. Furniture keeps it casual: classic slipcovered sofas ready for marathon lounging, armchairs you could nap in for hours and whitewashed tables giving strong “found this on the boardwalk” energy. Nothing stuffy here—think easy silhouettes with just the right touch of sea-salt swagger.
Texture is the unsung hero. Linen waves hello, chunky cotton throws are on standby for misty mornings and sisal rugs anchor it all with laid-back style. Even rattan wants in on the fun—and who could blame it? Take the color line-up: whites as crisp as a hotel bed, sandy neutrals, then splashes of seafoam, aqua, or coral, just daring you not to relax. It’s a little Nantucket, a little Hamptons, a lot less pretense.
Materials are all about keeping it coastal cool. Weathered wood, linen and jute hang out while sunlight pours in through windows so big they practically invite dolphins for brunch. Light fixtures? Sprinkle in some sea glass or get cheeky with nautical rope—never enough to feel like you accidentally walked into a pirate ship, promise.
Icons of the style include wicker armchairs and those plush slipcovered sofas (the Ryan Gosling of beachy furnishings: smooth and universally adored). Coastal’s design royalty—Barclay Butera, Phoebe Howard—have mastered the art of keeping things breezy with just a wink of polish. The result: spaces so relaxed, even your worries take a vacation.
Commonwealth
Commonwealth interior design, also known as Cromwellian style, brings quiet confidence to British interiors—think of it as the strong, silent type at a party. Born during the Puritan Commonwealth era, it’s not here to wow you with bling or curvy furniture that seems to wink. The furniture is famously sturdy—solid oak and walnut with straight lines and just enough ornamentation to keep things interesting, like those exposed brass tacks. You might say it’s the “dad jeans” of historic furniture—practical, dependable and not trying to start a trend.
The color palette is all about calming, earthy tones—deep browns, jet blacks and mellow neutrals. It’s a bit like the set of a moody period drama, minus the melodrama. Texture is everywhere, from the raw wood grain (each scar tells a tale) to comfy, weathered leather and the subtle gleam of hand-forged iron. Lighting? Steadily efficient, with metal pendants and lanterns that won’t steal the scene but will always light the way (probably on time, too).
No designer selfies from this period—it’s all about gifted craftsmanship and joinery, with anonymous hands building lasting pieces. The classic Cromwellian chair, with its bare panel back and honest lack of padding, may not win any comfort awards but it’d stand up to any sturdy-chairs-only competition. In the end, Commonwealth interiors prove that sometimes the simple, no-nonsense choice is surprisingly charming—turns out, restraint can be a bold move.
Contemporary
Contemporary interior design gets mistaken for “modern” all the time, but let’s clear the air: while modern style is stuck in history, contemporary design is all about what’s hot right now. It’s a living, breathing mashup, borrowing bits from minimalism, a splash of mid-century, a wink to industrial and even a nod to classic looks—never afraid to mix things up as trends evolve.
Form is the name of the game here. Think sleek sofas with clean angles, armchairs lifted on bare legs and coffee tables sharp enough to cut through visual clutter. Forget fussy details—no ruffles, fringe or grandma’s skirted furniture. The color palette is intentionally low-key: white, charcoal, greige (yes, that’s a thing) plus the occasional pop of cobalt or emerald when you need drama.
Texture’s the secret sauce. Forget cold and clinical—contemporary spaces want you to touch everything. You’ll find nubby boucle, buttery leather, matte black fixtures and raw woods all working together to add dimension without overcomplicating things. Lighting goes beyond basic bulbs, with sculptural pendants and fixtures in glass, brushed metal or even concrete—think less “builder basic” more art for your ceiling.
Open layouts keep everything breezy and bright. Marie Kondo would be proud. Floor-to-ceiling windows and cleverly curated accessories keep the vibe uncluttered and peaceful. Iconic pieces like the Barcelona chair by Mies van der Rohe or the Marshmallow Sofa by George Nelson sometimes pop up as statement-makers. Designers such as Kelly Hoppen and John Pawson keep the mood fresh and ultra-now. If design were pop music, contemporary would always be at the top of the charts—whatever the year.
Cool Britannia
Cool Britannia design waves a stylish flag for all things British with irreverence and flair. Born from the ‘90s buzz but with a knowing nod to the swinging ‘60s, this look marries classic British touches with a playfully modern attitude—no stiff upper lips required.
You’ll spot the signature red, white and blue, but with a twist: the tones are often subdued or vintage rather than full-on flag-waving. Think brick red fireplaces that give off “London flat” vibes, navy or faded denim sofas and walls in creamy off-white. Texture deserves a standing ovation with deep-buttoned leather or velvet Chesterfields, lived-in woods, chunky brushed metals and tweedy or woollen fabrics that make rainy days practically mandatory.
The forms are united by their contrast—mid-century shapes lean cool alongside industrial details and you might spot a Chesterfield parked under an Andy Warhol-style Union Jack print or next to a minimalist glass table straight from a Britpop album cover. Iconic pieces like the Chesterfield sofa, Eames-style chairs (yes, they gatecrashed the party) and Anglepoise lamps blend old-school substance with quirky Britannia spirit.
Accessories pull from everywhere: vintage teacups that probably haven’t seen tea in years, framed Beatles LPs, antique clocks and the occasional tongue-in-cheek slogan. Sir Terence Conran and brands like Habitat set the standard, mixing tradition with cheeky modern lines.
Cool Britannia isn’t just a design—it’s a mood. Think of it as Brit style that’s in on its own joke, draping heritage with swagger and a wink.
Cottage
Cottage interior design feels like getting a warm hug from your favorite blanket. This style is all about comfort and looking effortlessly put together—even if your idea of effort is fluffing a pillow. It loves all things cozy, a little quirky and not the least bit fussy. Here, nothing matches perfectly and that’s exactly the point. Life’s too short to fuss over a chair that doesn’t quite go with the table.
The colors are the softest you’ll find. We’re talking fresh whites, dreamy creams and pastels so gentle they might lull you to sleep. Imagine sage green, robin’s egg blue and just a sprinkle of blush pink—like an ice cream shop but for your living room. Fabrics are light and breezy: cotton, linen and maybe a dash of lace for that sweet grandma touch. Florals, gingham and faded stripes? Yes, please. If it looks like it once lived on a picnic or a vintage bedsheet, it fits.
Texture is the secret sauce. Rough wood, chipped paint and beadboard walls work together to say, “We’ve got stories.” Woven rugs, maybe a little frayed around the edges, just add to the charm. Fixtures look like they survived a few wild tea parties and things like porcelain sinks and barn lights bring home the cottage cred.
The star players here are roll-arm sofas you can sink into, spindle-back dining chairs and old farmhouse tables ready for cookies. Rachel Ashwell put everything on the map with her Shabby Chic style—spills and stains included. No matter where you live, cottage style is about relaxing, laughing and feeling right at home, even if your dog hogs the sofa.
Country
Country interior design is the ultimate hug for your home—inviting, unpretentious and ever so charming. Think of it as the Marge to Cottage’s Homer: a little sturdier, a bit earthier and less likely to chase fleeting trends. The palette is all about soft promise, with warm buttercream whites, dusty sky blues, sage greens and muddy browns that seem plucked straight from a Jane Austen picnic (without Mr. Darcy sulking in the background).
Natural woods like pine, oak and maple are celebrated, often sporting that “lived-in” look—painted, distressed, or so weathered you’d swear they’ve seen more barn dances than you have. Furniture follows the “solid and sensible” mantra, with farmhouse tables and ladder-back chairs that can survive both rowdy family dinners and a stampede of muddy boots. Pie safes, the old-school cousins of today’s kitchen islands, still earn their keep in many a country home.
Pattern is where Country gets its groove on. Florals, gingham, ticking and checkerboard prints pop up everywhere, giving the vibe of a rural B&B with a soft spot for nostalgia. Fabrics are practical—think cotton, linen and wool—and textures get layered through braided rugs, basketry and those hand-me-down quilts you swear you’ll never part with.
If you spot a mason jar moonlighting as a vase or a milk can playing flowerpot, you know you’re in good company. Charles Faudree and Ralph Lauren have both tipped their hat to this style, proving that even high design loves a little farm charm. Country isn’t just a style—it’s a heartfelt invitation to kick back and stay awhile.
Guide Sections
References
- Droste, M. (2002). Bauhaus, 1919-1933. Taschen.
- Yingquan, Z., Lei, X., & Qi, S. (2013). The Impact of Chinese Architecture on Chippendale Style Chinoiserie Furniture. Furniture & Interior Design, 1(6), 12-17.
Leave a Reply