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The Ultimate Interior Design Style Cheat Sheet


A room with various styles of colorful chairs and small tables arranged on a beige carpet. Mirrors and windows line the walls, creating a bright and cozy ambiance.

You've probably found yourself scrolling through online images of beautifully designed rooms, wondering how to describe the look. It's easy to feel overwhelmed by the sheer variety of styles out there. But don't worry, we're going to take a straightforward approach and break down some of the most common interior design styles. Think of this as a simple guide to help you understand and identify the looks you love.



First Up: The Classics


Antique sofa with yellow cushions in a cozy room. A vibrant bouquet in a glass vase sits on a glass table, reflecting soft light.

  • Traditional: 

    Think elegant, timeless, and a bit formal. Picture rich wood tones, plush fabrics, and classic patterns like damask. It's like stepping into a grand, cozy library. You'll often see symmetrical layouts and antique-inspired furniture.


Cozy living room with patterned chairs, a beige sofa, blue vase on wooden table, and a fireplace. Neutral tones create a calm atmosphere.

  • Transitional: 

    This one's like the cool, collected cousin of traditional. It blends classic and modern elements, creating a balanced and sophisticated look. Imagine clean lines with a touch of traditional detailing, neutral colours, and a mix of textures. It's all about that elegant comfort.



Going Modern (and Beyond)


Modern living room with gray sofas, white pillows, and a central marble table facing a sleek fireplace. Minimalist decor and large windows.

  • Modern: 

    This style is all about clean lines, simplicity, and functionality. Think sleek furniture, minimalist decor, and a focus on open spaces. It's often associated with neutral colour palettes and natural materials like wood and metal.


Round table with two black chairs, books, and small plants on a windowsill. Sunlight casts a warm glow on the wooden floor. Cozy ambiance.

  • Mid-Century Modern: 

    A throwback to the '50s and '60s, this style is iconic. Think renowned furniture pieces (like the Eames chair), organic shapes, teak wood, and a mix of retro patterns and colours. It's got that effortlessly cool, vintage vibe.


Cozy living room with two industrial copper and leather chairs, a coffee table with a potted plant, and a patterned rug. Warm neutral tones create a relaxed vibe. Exposed cinderblock walls and unfinished concrete floors create and industrial vibe.

  • Industrial: 

    This style celebrates raw, unfinished elements. Picture exposed brick, metal accents, and reclaimed wood. It's got that edgy, urban feel and often incorporates vintage or repurposed items.


Cozy living room with a gray sofa, textured cushions, and a throw. Wooden tables, plants, and a knit pouf in a calm, neutral setting.

  • Scandinavian: 

    Think light, bright, and airy. It's all about minimalism, functionality, and natural materials. Light wood tones, neutral colours, and cozy textiles are key. It's like bringing the calming vibes of a Nordic cabin into your home.



Adding Some Personality


Cozy indoor scene with wooden shelves and a sideboard adorned with lush plants, books, art, and a lamp. Warm, natural tones.

  • Bohemian (Boho): 

    This style is all about expressing your free spirit. Think eclectic mixes of patterns, textures, and colours. It's about layering rugs, pillows, and plants, and creating a relaxed, lived-in feel. There are no rules in Boho!


Rustic blue cabinet with worn paint holds a framed photo, weathered box, turquoise candle, starfish, and coral decor. Light, beachy room.

  • Coastal (or Nautical): 

    If you love the beach, this style is for you. Think light, airy colors, natural textures like rattan and jute, and nautical-inspired decor. It's like bringing the serenity of the ocean indoors.


Yellow tulips in a white pitcher on a table. Background features a cabinet with colorful floral-patterned cups and plates. Warm, cozy setting.

  • Farmhouse:

    Think rustic charm and cozy comfort. It's about incorporating natural materials like wood and stone, vintage or antique pieces, and warm, inviting colours. It feels like a warm hug from a country home.


Eclectic living room with navy sofa and colorful cushions. Art-filled wall, vibrant plants, pink vase with flowers, and books on a gold tray.

  • Eclectic:

    This style is all about mixing and matching different elements to create a unique and personal look. It's about finding pieces you love and making them work together, even if they don't seem like they should. It allows for the most personal expression.


Vintage room with blue painted dresser, open window with red flowers, checkered curtains, and reflected sunlight. Cozy rural scene outside.

  • Cottage-core:

    This style is like a warm hug from a simpler time, embracing the beauty of nature, rustic charm, and a touch of fairytale magic. Think floral patterns, natural textures like linen and wool, vintage finds, and handmade crafts.


White monkey statue holding a light bulb against a patterned orange arch. Yellow striped background adds contrast and modern flair.

  • Dopamine:

    Dopamine decor is all about creating spaces that spark joy and boost your mood. Forget rigid rules, this style embraces bold colours, playful patterns, and personal touches that make you smile. Think vibrant hues, quirky art, and anything that ignites positive emotions. It's about designing a home that's a celebration of your personality and a daily dose of happiness.





Finding Your Vibe


The best part about interior design is that there are no hard and fast rules. You can mix and match styles to create a look that's uniquely yours.


Here are a few tips to help you find your vibe:

  • Look for inspiration: Scroll through Pinterest, Instagram, and design magazines.

  • Consider your lifestyle: How do you use your space? Do you need a family-friendly space or a chic entertaining area?

  • Think about your personality: What colours and patterns make you happy?

  • Start small: Pick one room to focus on and experiment with different styles.

  • Don't be afraid to mix and match: Combine elements from different styles to create a look that's uniquely yours.


Most importantly, have fun with it! Your home should be a reflection of you, so don't be afraid to experiment and create a space you love. Don't forget to tag @dobradecor in your unique room designs on Pinterest and Instagram!


So, what style are you vibing with? Let me know in the comments!

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