How to Define Your Interior Design Style

Choosing decor can feel overwhelming when you’re not sure what your style actually is. But figuring out how to define your interior design style doesn’t have to be complicated. With a little curiosity and a few guided questions, you can discover what speaks to you—and start creating a home that feels beautifully personal and pulled together.

Start with What You Love

Look around your home or scroll through your favorite inspiration boards. What colors, textures, or rooms make you feel good? Your taste is likely already showing up in subtle ways—whether it’s a love for warm woods, modern shapes, or cozy throws. Pay attention to patterns in what you naturally gravitate toward.

Explore Common Design Styles

Familiarizing yourself with popular design styles can help you describe your preferences. A few to consider:

Modern: Clean lines, minimalism, and sleek materials
Traditional: Classic shapes, symmetry, and rich finishes
Bohemian: Eclectic layers, global influence, and natural textures
Farmhouse: Rustic wood, vintage accents, and cozy charm
Scandinavian: Light colors, simplicity, and functional comfort
Industrial: Exposed materials, raw edges, and utilitarian vibes

You might not fit neatly into just one—and that’s totally fine!

Create a Mood Board

Collect photos, fabric swatches, color chips, or online images into one place. Look at everything together. What elements keep showing up? A mood board can reveal your true preferences even when you can’t describe them in words.

Take an Interior Design Style Quiz

If you’re still unsure, try an online quiz. These often ask visual or lifestyle questions and give you a style or combination of styles to explore. Use the results as a jumping-off point—not a rulebook.

Identify What You Don’t Like

Sometimes it’s easier to know what you don’t want. Make a list of finishes, colors, or furniture shapes that you actively avoid. This can help you narrow your focus and steer clear of decor that doesn’t reflect your taste.

Consider Your Lifestyle

Your interior design style should fit your daily routine. Love entertaining? You may lean toward open, comfortable layouts. Live with kids or pets? Look for durable fabrics and functional furniture. The best style is one that supports your life, not just your aesthetic.

Mix and Match Styles Thoughtfully

You don’t have to commit to just one style. Many homes mix rustic with modern, or traditional with boho. The key is to repeat colors or materials across rooms to create a cohesive flow. If you love clean lines but warm textures, combine them with intention.

Define Your Color Palette

Do you love cool neutrals, bold contrast, or earthy tones? Choose a base palette of 2–3 main colors and 1–2 accents. This helps tie your rooms together and makes it easier to shop or plan your next update without starting from scratch every time.

Start Small and Evolve

Style is personal—and it grows with you. Start with one room, a corner, or even a vignette (like a shelf or table display). As you experiment and adjust, you’ll gain clarity and confidence in defining what “home” feels like to you.

Conclusion

Your interior design style doesn’t have to be perfect, trendy, or fixed in stone. It just has to feel like you. By taking the time to notice what you’re drawn to, exploring combinations, and staying true to your lifestyle, you’ll create spaces that reflect your personality and bring you comfort every day.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if I like more than one style?

That’s totally normal! Many people are drawn to elements from multiple styles. The key is blending them intentionally through color, shape, or mood.

Can I mix old furniture with new pieces?

Yes! Mixing vintage and modern creates character. Try unifying them with matching finishes, complementary colors, or shared materials.

What if my partner has a different style than me?

Look for common ground and combine both styles in a balanced way. Focus on shared goals like comfort, function, or mood to guide your design choices.

Do I need to follow trends to have good style?

Nope. Trends come and go. Your personal style should be about what makes you feel at home, not what’s currently popular.

Where should I start if I’m redecorating a whole home?

Start with one room—usually the one you use most—and let the rest evolve from there. Use your first space to establish your overall tone and palette.