The world is your oyster!
Scandinavian and Japanese-style interiors are all the rage in the local interior design scene, but these countries aren’t the only places to draw inspiration from.
So, to give you some additional sources of inspiration, we’ve trawled through the Internet to find our favourite interior design styles from around the world. Keep reading to see them all!
1. Greece – iconic blue-and-white interiors with ancient historical influences
Source: @sigalsy_interior_design
Greece’s identity is deeply rooted in history and mythology – so naturally, these aspects will find a way to subtly appear in their brand of interior design. Features may come in the form of intricately-carved busts, columns, and curved features, all of which are reminiscent of ancient Greek architecture.
Source: Homeric Poems
Of course, we can’t forget the classic blue-and-white colour combination! But if you want a more authentic Grecian feel, try mixing in hints of green and red – inspired by the local flora and fauna – as well as natural materials like wood, stone, and microcement.
2. Korea – minimalistic sophistication with traditional elements
Source: @80126
Unlike the lavish homes you see in K-dramas, Korean homes tend to lean on the minimalistic, simple side. And yet, there’s still a lot of character in them, thanks to the prevalent use of natural materials and local crafts (think handcrafted wooden furniture and stone carvers).
Source: @kujungmaru and @ssunyhome
As a throwback to their rich heritage, many homes in Korea also feature subtle traditional elements. Think hanok-inspired framework as well as green or white ceramics that were typical in the Joseon dynasty.
3. France – timeless Parisian chic
Source: @atelier_hans_paris
As apparent in Emily in Paris, interior design in this cosmopolitan city still retains its classical flair, with a hint of cosy comfort that thus results in their particular brand of ‘casual elegance’.
Source: @verocotrel
Like most European themes, Parisian chic decor involves delicate wall mouldings, ornate mirrors, and tons of artwork. How this elegant style differs, though, is through the use of clean lines and neutral colours, which draws attention to the decor without overpowering the look.
4. Morocco – colourful extravagance filled with patterns
Source: Design Cafe
Bold, colourful, and extravagant – that’s what the Moroccan interior style is. This is a style that involves a mix of Moorish (Northern African) and Mediterranean European influences, and that’s reflected through the abundant usage of Moorish usage, bright colours, and luxurious materials.
Source: Mimar Interiors
While its Islamic roots mean little artwork, that doesn’t mean zero decor. Instead, Morrocans look towards stained glass lamps, mashrabiya panels, and zellige tiles (carved with intricate patterns into ceramic) to bring character to the home.
5. California, USA – a balance of Hollywood glamour and practicality
Source: Diamond Sofa
Hollywood is all about the glamour, luxury, and drama, and all these traits naturally reflect themselves in the aptly-named ‘Hollywood glam’ interior design style.
Source: Ethan Allen
While it’s inspired by the decadence and luxury of the Golden Age of Hollywood, it’s neither messy nor overwhelming. Instead, think of it as a mixture of mid-century modern with Art Deco elements, where jewel-toned accents, glossy materials, and lush fabrics meet clean lines and vintage accents.
6. New York, USA – where edgy industrial vibes meet open living comfort
Source: The Nord Room
No brand of industrial style is more iconic than the NYC loft theme! While other styles keep the look seamless by concealing raw elements like bricks, beams, and pipes, this one gives you the freedom to leave them exposed and put them on display.
Source: Architectural Digest
While most Singaporeans don’t have the luxury of sky high ceilings and windows (unless you’re lucky enough to snag a loft-style penthouse condominium), you can still follow the open floor plan typical in NYC lofts. Just be sure to group your furniture to prevent your space from looking overly large!
7. Indonesia – Balinese style closely tied to nature
Source: Bali Interiors
Picture Bali, and you’ll probably think of luxurious wooden villas by the sea, surrounded by rich flora and wild greenery.
These landscapes are exactly what inspire the Balinese interior style. Compared to the rest of the styles on this list, this one is more closely tied to nature, so don’t just stop at wood finishes – feel free to go wild with rattan, bamboo, cane, and more.
Source: Bali Interiors
While it’s not feasible for us to vacation in Bali all the time, resort-style furniture are fortunately widely available online, so you can lavish in resort vibes at home 24/7. As a finishing touch, be sure to stick to earthy hues and soft fabric to add a relaxed vibe to the space.
8. The United Kingdom – ‘shabby chic’ pairing of weathered furniture and floral accents
Source: Decorilla
There are farmhouse and country-inspired themes… and then there’s ‘shabby chic’ – the more rustic, exaggerated version of the two.
Source: @ritalavoe
Originating from the 1980s’ UK, this particular style is all about the antique, weathered furniture, thrown together with floral motifs, pastel tones and natural elements in true maximalist fashion. But don’t be thrown off by its exaggerated nature, for the mess is all tastefully done to create the country-cottage aesthetic.
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