Choosing a style for your interior decor

Published: 22nd February 2010

When redecorating the interiors of a home, most people will want a coherent, unified style running through it, no matter how different the rooms are from each other. However, as there as so many different styles to choose from, and hundreds of different elements making up each one, it can be both confusing and frustrating trying to choose one.

The following are a few examples of the most popular styles, which should start those creative juices flowing:

Contemporary/modern - For this sort of style, think clean, minimalist lines and comfortable simplicity. This doesn't have to be cold and without personality though, you can choose bold furniture and accessories to make your own style statement. Key colours include neutrals, contrasting black and white, and standout splashes of colour. Areas such as bathrooms and kitchens suit this style the most, where a standout section of colourful ceramic wall tiles can provide the perfect contrast to the smooth lines of your luxurious white floor tiles.

English country cottage - For this welcoming, rustic look, the idea of ‘shabby chic' should always be on your mind. It's all about furniture and accessories; comfy chairs, floral patterns, lace and lots of soothing pastel colours. Your home will look inviting, lived-in, and extremely cosy.

Japanese - Eastern influences in interior designs have become extremely popular these days, using contrasting, geometric styles to emphasise the architecture of a building. Soft, neutral colours are used for the background, whilst heavy use of the colour black creates definition. A key focus of the Japanese style is balancing opposites to create harmonious order.

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