Almost every other home you see these days feature a Scandinavian (or Industrial) theme, which is all cool and hip... but you’re not the type to be typical, right? Or maybe you’ve been there, done that. How about some alternative interior styles? Check out these eight interior themes that will give your home a complete (and visually different) upgrade:
Coastal
Love the idea of living by the sea? The next best solution in urban Singapore is the coastal look! Light and airy, this interior style takes inspiration from beachside shacks and seaside villas, bringing a breezy, laid-back vibe to any space.
View this project by Schemacraft
Get the Look:
A little rustic, a little countryside; think elements harking from the seaside, like bleached out driftwoods, pearlescent seashells, shiplap and the like. Likewise, details like white and blue hues and nautical stripes help to enhance that beachside appeal. Plenty of plants throughout give it that perfect finishing touch of nature.
Eclectic
Looking for a touch of the whimsical? Eclectic, mod spaces would be right up your alley. The perfect way to show off your personality, the rule to nailing this fun, creative style is (ironically) to simply not have any rules!
View this project by D'Initial Concept
Get the Look:
That being said, there are some key facets that most eclectic spaces have: bold colours, accessories and a healthy dose of patterns! An easy way to do this is to accessorise with offbeat items - a geometric patterned rug, a jazzy couch, modish tiles (or wallpapers) like the ones in this home all do the trick.
Retro
Old is gold, as they say. And if you're the type that loves a touch of the nostalgic, the ever-charming retro theme brings a quirky twist that's a far cry from the usual modern or Scandinavian themes.
View this project by ARK-hitecture
Get the Look:
Take notes from this absolutely inviting retro home that’s a step back to 1970s Singapore! Colourful mid-century modern furniture and old-school decor fill up the space, such as the painted iron-grilles and retro appliances. To avoid looking dated, furnishings are kept simple and minimal for a clean, contemporary look that's still in touch with the times.
MUJI
If you're not totally against the light, minimal look of Scandinavian spaces, this alternative that's inspired by everyone's favourite Japanese lifestyle brand might be more up your alley. Emphasising on natural elements with a simple, practical slant, the MUJI-style is great for those looking for a modest, timeless space.
View this project by D5 Studio Image
Get the Look:
Retain plenty of wide spaces and built-ins with minimal details. Naturally, wood and white is a key aspect of any MUJI space - in particular light to medium hued woods like beech and oak. To play up the theme's nature-inspired look, apply earthy neutrals like khakis, beiges and olive greens, and finish the space with leafy indoor plants.
Bohemian
Calling all free-spirited hippies - whether you love layering ethnic textiles or playing with contrasting patterns and colours, a bohemian-theme always makes for a cosy and easygoing space.
View this project by M3 Studio
Get the Look:
Think lots of patterns, plants, eclectic accessories and vintage, vintage, vintage! Take cue from this home - the living room gets a chilled out vibe with its lounge furniture and natural light filtering in. Meanwhile, the semi al fresco kitchen has an open laid-back feel going for it! Predominantly white with hints of colour from the Turkish rugs and huge throw pillows littered throughout, this apartment is boho chic personified.
Arabesque
Bold, decadent and elegant, the Arabesque-theme offers up classic glitz and glam, with a slightly Asian slant. Here, Islamic elements dominate - from tessellated motifs, blown-glass lamps to rich oriental carpets.
View this project by Fatema Design Studio
Get the Look:
An easy way to get the Arabesque look is with patterns and textures. Start with your tiles - go for patterned colour mosaics in the kitchen and bath area. Add a tinge of luxury with royal hues like emerald, navy and gold. Moorish-inspired art and finishing (like the dividers) create a show-stopping, but timeless style.
Barnhouse
Cushy and cosy, the barnhouse-style is all about exuding a warm, welcoming air that's simply relaxing to be in. Featuring country-style elements like ceiling beams, woods and traditional shaker cabinets, snug accents and neutral shades make for an interior that's homely and equally stylish.
View this project by Hall Interiors
Get the Look:
To get the look, go for natural elements throughout - wooden furniture is ideal while plush furnishing like pillows and throws on the sofa accentuate the atmosphere. The ultimate barn house must-have? A stunning white and wood kitchen that’s the heart of the home.
Modern Victorian
Elegant and romantic, think of this style as a softer, minimal alternative to oft-opulent Baroque or traditional Victorian themes. Here, common elements include contrasting light and dark hues, alongside luxe finishes and materials like polished woods for a sophisticated look.
View this project by Fuse Concept
Get the Look:
While fancy features like paneling and luxe marble finishes are apparent with this style, today's Victorian-themed spaces are also about keeping things balanced. Detailing is kept in simple lines and shapes, and neutral colours are used for a classy look. Go for furniture with curvaceous profiles and sweeping curved lines as well, alongside an array of eclectic or vintage decor items like plates or porcelain vases.
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