The main idea when designing your home is to know what your style is. A lot of people have no clue as to what their style is called. It’s good to know specific terms and names used in the design industry because it will make your project much easier.

If you like dark wood furniture without much detail, then you might like traditional-styled pieces. However, if you prefer open spaces, sharp lines and light colors, then you might be a minimalist; two styles that are very far from each other on the design scale.

Then you need to consider when styles come together. Yes, you can mix them up, but it has to be done in a well-rounded manner, not with bits and pieces sticking out like a sore thumb. It’s not as hard as you may think but it does take some know how.

There are a few main groups of design that you should know. They are easily recognizable and you will find most of them in people’s homes.

Traditional
Elements of traditional design consists of a mix of dark and light colors, dark woods, tailored and refined furniture, decorative molding, symmetrical layouts and a classic feel. Neutrals such as browns, blues, greens and reds are often found and patterns like plaids, toile, florals and simple textures mostly make up accessories.

{A traditional bed room showcasing wood furniture, simple yet shapely design and a natural warm feel}

{Traditional styled kitchen with warm wood tones and natural textures}

{This traditional study is warm and masculine. Plaid wallpaper brings in style while intimate lighting create the mood}

{A more modern version of the style, this traditional bedroom is fit for a queen. From the romantic chandelier to the victorian inspired wallpaper, this space is comfortable, elegant and classic}

Modern vs. Contemporary
People think that these two styles are the same when they aren’t. Modern elements are somewhat close to traditional themes, but a tad more simplified.  You’ll often find square and oval tables, non-decorative furniture, simple textures and more streamlined layouts.

On the other hand, contemporary design is much more experimental. Wide open spaces, functional furniture, sleek shapes, light colors and the use of metallics.  White is often used to bounce around light and allow certain colors to pop. Large oversized pieces of artwork are popular as well.

{The use of open shelving and high end appliances as well as the spacious feel presents a contemporary look. The addition of rustic accents helps it feel warmer}

{This modern entryway is bold and classic}

{The clean lines and minimalist layout of this space shouts contemporary style. The clever use of natural elements such as concrete and wood bring personality and interest}

{From the table and chairs to the textured rug, this dining area presents contemporary ideas with an eclectic feel. The lighting is unique while the wood floor and double doors are traditional. A nice mix of styles handled with a modern sensibility}

Vintage
The vintage style of design can go in a few directions according to what period you style your home around. If you like the 40s and 50s, then having a diner-style kitchen with reds and light blues makes sense. If the 60s and 70s appeals to you, then your home will look completely different. Think retro pieces with pops of color, very mod.

{This 70s inspired living room is mod all the way. With mid century furniture, a large shag rug and simple accents, this space is transformed with true hippie style}

{With touches of 80s and 70s style, this living room is presents a more modern take on this vintage style. Note the warm colors and design of the furniture}

{This 50s inspired kitchen is showcased through a modern sensibility. The use of light blue really brings the space together}

However, going back even further to the 1800s is yet another completely different look.  Colonial and post-war design pieces are fairly simple, like traditional, but have a more rustic and worn feel. Think farmhouse and you got it.

Antique filled spaces bring character and personality to a home. From mid century design to rustic/country accents, there is a whole world of possibilities for the vintage style to shine. With a mix of raw elements, rusty items of the past and pale neutral tones, make way for success.

{Colonial inspired kitchen with rustic accents and neutral tones. Country styled linens bring lively patterns and a pop of color while the raw architectural elements of the space bring it all together}

{This colonial dining room has an arts and crafts feel with touches of americana}

{The tile in this bathroom brings a vintage feel with ease. Although its designed with a modern sensibility, the raw and rustic accents allow it to feel nostalgic}

Another style you can consider is Victorian. Highly detailed and ornamental, this style of design appears much like dollhouses: feminine and graceful.

{A classic, modern victorian style bedroom beautifully expressed with ornamental details, natural colors and grand accessories}

{This modern victorian living room has all the elements this style calls for. From classic  furniture to the elegant details, it all come together nicely. The use of pale neutrals helps distribute the weight evenly across the room allowing it to feel airy and open}

Mid-Century Design
This style describes art created in the 20th century, roughly between the 1930s and 1970s. It was influenced by Scandinavian design (hello Ikea!) and represents modern developments in art, product design and architecture. Experimenting with color, texture and organic shapes, this movement paved the way for modern and contemporary style.

{Mid-century designed living room. Airy and natural, the space is filled with clean organic lines and neutral tones and textures}

{Mid-century design accessories and pieces of furniture}

Mixing it Up
Here are a few examples of how mixing styles can come together nicely.

{A modern rustic living room with touches of industrial
elements}

{This shabby chic space is a mix of rustic, modern and a touch of victorian}

{This bedroom is showcased in a traditional style but has elegant accents that give it a pretty victorian feel}

{This dining space is a combination of modern style and traditional elements. The contemporary chairs and lighting transform the space that would otherwise feel country}

So whatever you find your style is, do your research to find as many examples as possible. I suggest you start a stylebook so you have an organized collection of things you love. Once you have that, you can start mixing certain elements and really have fun.

Your dream house doesn’t have to be perfect. In fact, you’ll always make improvements to your environment and as you get older, your tastes could change. But while we are in the present, surround yourself with elements of you! Your space should define who you are and showcase what inspires you. Only then will it continue to give back and make you feel you feel at home everyday.