Which of These Home Design Styles is the Best Fit for You?

We break down what designers mean by modern, maximalist, contemporary, and more, so that you can find the right look!

Take it from us: getting to know every single interior design style that’s popular can be confusing – and why that’s the case is because there’s just so many! So, let us help you out with this simple guide that breaks down everything that you need to know about each style, plus what furniture/home décor items that you should get to achieve the look you want.

Contemporary

Going by the definition of the word, contemporary means ‘belonging to or occurring in the present’, which is to say ANY design element or style (yes, that includes everything below) which is currently popular can be considered to be contemporary. So, if you’d like a home that looks like it belongs in the moment, this is the style (or should we say styles?) for you.

Sleek forms, understated furnishings and stylish, but practical built-ins are some of the features that are in-trend now – think clean-lined cabinets, metallic accent lamps as well as smooth surfaces, all brought together by a thoughtful colour scheme to create comfortable, uncluttered living spaces.

An idea of what furniture that you could shop for to create a contemporary home:

Stores to check out: Dream Interiors Pte Ltd | Danish Design Co. | Comfort Design

Scandinavian

Who doesn’t love the clean and oh-so-minimal Scandinavian aesthetic? If you’re one of those who spend way too much time shopping at IKEA, this Nordic-inspired look will be right up your alley. Originating from Scandinavian countries like Denmark, Sweden and Norway, the Scandinavian style embraces simplicity and functionality at its best.

Crisp white walls, warm woody textures and an abundance of natural light sets the tone for the quintessential Scandi-themed home, coupled with contemporary furniture to create a cosy and welcoming atmosphere.

An idea of what furniture that you could shop for to create a Scandinavian home:

Stores to check out: IKEA | Noden | Finnish Design Shop

Eclectic

Fancy something less conventional? For the audacious homeowners who aren’t afraid to express themselves, add an unexpected touch to your decor in the name of eclecticism – which combines a quirky mishmash of styles, influences and inspirations into a space that’s chock-full of character and charm.

Don’t shy away from experimenting with bold colours and patterns; it’s all about knowing how to mix and match the right way for maximum visual impact. Time to get creative!

An idea of what furniture that you could shop for to create an eclectic home:

Stores to check out: Meraki Decoration | HipVan

Mid-century Modern

Perfect for the old souls at heart, the mid-century modern style draws design cues from the 1950s and 60s for a striking retro-inspired look that oozes plenty of timeless appeal.

Characterised by geometric shapes, contemporary patterns and straightforward silhouettes, mid-century modern furnishings lend richness and detail that can instantly elevate the look of any room.

An idea of what furniture that you could shop for to create a mid-century modern home:

Stores to check out: P5 Studio | Journey East

Industrial

When it comes to decorating your home, utility is key. For those who prefer function over form, you will feel right at home in an industrial-styled space that’s equal parts open and edgy.

Often seen in lofts, warehouses and factories, this unrefined style is made up of raw, unfinished elements such as exposed pipes, light bulbs and concrete walls in all its stripped-down glory. Using salvaged materials and reclaimed furniture are also a great way to bring out the industrial feel!

An idea of what furniture that you could shop for to create an industrial home:

Stores to check out: Nook & Cranny | Urban Salvation

Minimalist

Fuss-free and organised, you take pride in keeping your space clean, neat and minimal. Focusing on the mantra that less is more, the secret to nailing the Zen-like minimalist style is to strip it down to the basics.

No fancy ornamentation or elaborate features here; all you need is a simple, all-white palette of clean lines, neutral hues and streamlined furniture that Marie Kondo would definitely approve of.

An idea of what furniture that you could shop for to create a minimalist home:

Stores to check out: Grey & Sanders | Noden | Grafunkt

Maximalist

On the opposite spectrum of minimalism, there are the maximalists who are all about embracing intricate styles, loud prints and patterns on patterns… lots of it.

You have a delightfully bold personality and seek joy in filling up your space with all your favourite things – the trick here is to do it tastefully without being overbearing! Artworks, vintage accents and mismatched furniture are a good place to start.

An idea of what furniture that you could shop for to create a maximalist home:

Stores to check out: Taylor B | Arete Culture

Traditional

Have a penchant for classic art and design steeped in history? You will love the sophisticated look of the good ol’ traditional styling, which pays homage to the bygone eras of 18th and 19th-century Europe.

There’s nothing like a beautifully orchestrated blend of rich textiles, ornate motifs and antique finds to give your home a seriously lavish flair. For an extra touch of glam, add a chandelier – or three – to finish off the look.

An idea of what furniture that you could shop for to create a traditional home:

Stores to check out: The Past Perfect Collection | Marquis

Transitional

Or if you find the traditional style a tad too stifling, the transitional style might just be the one for you. A modern spin on traditional design, this 21st century-appropriate look gives you the best of both worlds by fusing two drastically clashing styles into a decidedly harmonious sanctuary.

Opt for a mix of vintage, antique and contemporary furnishings to add a polished charm to an otherwise ho-hum space.

An idea of what furniture that you could shop for to create a transitional home:

Stores to check out: Originals | Finn Avenue

No-Style

If all of the above doesn’t apply to you, you most likely fall into this category (but then again, you aren’t exactly a fan of labels). A style rebel who’s constantly breaking rules and testing boundaries, you ditch the usual industrial and minimalist boxes in favour of a one-of-a-kind, anti cookie-cutter home that shows off your unique identity.

Go gritty in the living, retro in the kitchen, and futuristic in the bedrooms – your home is your playground!

An idea of what furniture that you could shop for to create a no-style home:

Like the name implies, the no-style look is an amalgamation! Any furniture store is your playground but here are some you can check out: Castlery | Como Decor

Have other interior styles in mind?

Let us know your renovation requirements to get quick, personalised renovation quotes from five local interior design firms, for free!

Also, when you engage an interior firm through our free recommendation service, you’ll enjoy attractive perks, such as the Qanvast Guarantee – a free scheme that safeguards up to $50,000 of your renovation deposits.

Renovate with assurance, only on Qanvast. Find and meet interior designers verified by homeowners, with no hidden costs and no commissions involved. Find an ID