A Homeowner’s Guide to Different Interior Design Styles in Singapore

Find out which one you truly vibe with!

Interior design styles can get confusing, especially when so many of them share similar vibes. So how do you figure out what actually suits your space and lifestyle needs?

That’s where this handy guide comes in! Here, we break down the most popular interior styles in Singapore, highlighting their key features to (hopefully) clear things up:

1. Wabi Sabi interior design

Emphasising authenticity and simplicity, wabi sabi is a Japanese philosophy that embraces the beauty of imperfection and the passage of time.

In the interior design realm, it’s the opposite of sleek, showroom-looking spaces – instead, this style is all about the wear and tear that comes from everyday use. In its truest form, however, it may appear too rugged, which is why most homeowners take on a cleaner interpretation of the look.

Key features of wabi sabi design includes:

• Natural materials like wood, stone, and linen
• Textured surfaces such as limewash and cement
• Organic, asymmetrical shapes
• Handcrafted decor pieces
• Neutral, nature-inspired colour palettes

Explore: 6 Interior Firms Experienced in Designing Wabi-Sabi Homes in SG

2. Japandi interior design

Japandi interior design is all about a combination of the East and West. Combining the simple, uncluttered nature of Scandinavian design with the nature-inspired elegance of Japanese design, this style is all about creating a warm, cosy space that is equal parts neat and full of character.

Key design elements and features of Japandi design include:

• Natural materials like wood, bamboo, and rattan
• Functional, clutter-free spaces
• Tons of natural lighting
• Neutral, earthy colour palettes
• Low-lying furniture pieces with simple forms

Explore: 8 Interior Design Companies to Engage for a Japandi Style Home

3. Minimalist interior design

The minimalist home eliminates everything that is unnecessary, from decor items to bulky furniture, focusing instead on clean lines, open spaces, and intentional living.

Furnishings and appliances that are deemed non-essential are left out of the home’s design, making these spaces ideal for anyone who loves a clean and organised abode.

Key features of minimalist interior design include:

• Neutral and monochromatic palette
• Clean lines and simple shapes, with minimal detailing
• Concealed built-in storage solutions
• Multi-purpose or modular furniture
• Decluttered spaces (everything has a purpose)

Explore: For a Minimalist Zen Home, Look for These 8 Renovation Firms in SG

4. Scandinavian interior design

Like minimalist design, the Scandinavian interior design style embraces the “less is more” approach with minimal clutter and clean, functional spaces. However, such spaces possess an additional layer of warmth and cosiness through the introduction of natural materials like wood.

Compared to other interior design styles, Scandinavian looks are much more affordable to achieve, making them a popular choice among homeowners.

Key elements of Scandinavian interior design includes:

• Light wood tones like oak and maple
• Lots of natural lighting
• Minimal clutter
• Open, airy spaces

Explore: 8 Interior Design Firms in Singapore for Scandinavian-Style Homes

5. Mid-century modern interior design

Born from the post-war Western interiors of the 1950s and ‘60s, mid-century modern design is where form and function meets old-school charm.

Key features of mid-century modern design include:

• Clean lines and simple organic shapes
• Metal and fiberglass elements
• Natural materials like wood and leather
• Warm, earthy palette

Explore: 7 Design Firms in SG That Mid-Century Modern Fans Should Check Out

6. Retro interior design

Familiar with the colourful, whimsical fashion style of the ‘50s and ‘60s? Retro interior design is like that, too – think vibrant prints, funky patterns, and statement pieces that bring that playful yesteryear charm into your abode.

Key features and elements of retro interiors include:

• Patterned walls and/or flooring
• Colourful and whimsical furniture
• Bold graphics and art pieces
• Textured upholstery
• Old-school decor like ventilation blocks

7. Contemporary design

The words ‘modern’ and ‘contemporary’ might be synonymous in everyday life. However, when it comes to interior design, each style has their distinct identity, with the latter being more fluid in comparison.

Going by definition, contemporary means ‘belonging to or occurring in the present’. That means, ANY design element that’s considered to be popular and of the moment can be contemporary – meaning it’s an ever-evolving style that adapts to trends and changes.

Key design features and elements of contemporary interior design include:

• Neutral colours with pops of colour for contrast
• Layered textures like soft furnishings and metal accents
• Statement pieces as focal points

Explore: 10 Design Firms That Create Contemporary Homes in Singapore

8. Industrial design style

Instead of concealing or dressing up unfinished elements (like other styles), industrial-style homes emphasise and draw attention to them. That includes everything from exposed pipes and wiring to cement flooring and walls.

All these elements are inspired from old factories and warehouses-turned-lofts in New York, where raw and unfinished elements come together for a rugged, edgy look.

Key features of industrial design include:

• Cement screed floors
• Exposed brick walls, beams and pipes
• Open-concept layouts
• Aged or black metal fixtures
• Track lighting or Edison bulbs

Is brutalist design the same as industrial design?

While both styles aim for an edgy, rugged look, they’re not entirely the same. Brutalist homes favour form over function, with an almost dramatic, architectural feel to them, while industrial designs feel more utilitarian and lived-in.

9. Eclectic interior design

Combining a mishmash of styles, influences and inspirations, the eclectic design style is much less restrained by specific design ‘rules’ compared to the others, and instead emphasises personality and unpredictability.

Note, however, that this style is not about throwing in every single thing you like into the same space. Instead, aim to keep things tasteful – a good starting point is to select a neutral colour base as your core palette, and then slowly work in the other more colourful elements from there.

Key design features and elements of eclectic design include:

• Bold colours and patterns
• A combination of different textures and prints
• Fusion of modern and traditional elements
• Sentimental objects and collectibles for a personal touch
• Loose furniture pieces of different styles

10. Farmhouse interior design

Inspired by traditional farmhouses and countryside living, farmhouse interior design oozes a charming blend of rustic elements and modern comforts. Think cosy textures, weathered wood, and vintage-inspired accents that feel both lived-in and welcoming.

In a busy, fast-paced city like Singapore, such homes can feel like an idyllic escape from the everyday hustle and bustle.

Key features and elements of farmhouse design include:

• A lot of wood elements
• Comfy, oversized furniture
• Shiplap and wainscoting details
• Layered furnishings and textures
• Barn doors

11. Modern luxe interior design

If you find yourself drawn to the atas looks of upscale hotels like The Ritz-Carlton or Andaz, then modern luxe interior design is for you.

This style emphasises on luxury through high-quality materials, warm lighting, and cosy colour schemes – all of which come together to evoke staycation vibes on a 24/7 basis.

Key elements and features of modern luxe interiors include:

• Neutral colour palette with metallic accents
• Statement lighting
• Natural stone like marble or travertine
• Glossy and reflective surfaces like full-length mirrors
• Plush soft furnishings

Explore: 8 SG Interior Design Firms that Create Modern Luxe, Hotel-Like Homes

12. Resort-style interior design

Resort-style interiors are all about recreating the experience of luxury villas and tropical getaways within your own home. This is done through breezy open spaces, natural textures, and maximising the amount of natural light within the space.

The goal? Creating a serene atmosphere that seems miles away from the worries of everyday life.

Key elements and features of resort-style interiors are:

• Natural materials like wood, rattan and wicker
• Earthy tones
• Indoor-outdoor connection
• Soft and warm ambient lighting
• Tropical plants and pebbles for decor

Explore: 6 Interior Design Firms in Singapore that Create Resort-Style Homes

Know what interior design style you want?

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Alternatively, if you’re still unsure, take our interior design style quiz. You’ll not only find the perfect style for your lifestyle, but also a curated selection of interior design firms that can execute that specific style!