Interior Design Styles: What's Your Home Design Style?

What you choose for your home’s look is a little window into your life. Picking the right interior design style means feeling at ease every single day.

That sense of comfort comes from the details you choose. Maybe you love the simplicity of clean lines, or perhaps your space is a mix of vintage finds and new pieces. Every choice matters, from the colour palette in your living room to the cozy feel you want your guests to experience.

Interior designer Kelly Wearstler puts it perfectly: “Great design is a multi-layered relationship between human life and its environment.”

With so many home decor styles and designs available, picking the one that fits can feel like a significant decision. But you don’t have to figure it out alone.

This guide highlights the most popular interior design styles Australia has adopted, providing you with fresh design ideas to match your taste and help you create a cosy space you truly enjoy.

Different Types of Home Interior Design Styles

No two homes are ever quite the same. With so many different interior design styles to choose from, you might like the warmth of rustic interiors, the laid-back feel of coastal style, or the crisp lines of something modern.

Whatever your taste, these popular interior design styles offer you numerous ways to create a space that feels just right. We’ve gathered them here to help you find inspiration for your next project.

Modern

Modern interior design style centres on clean lines, open spaces, and a sense of order. Emerging in the early to mid-20th century, this style favours simplicity over ornament, utilising smooth surfaces, geometric forms, and a restrained colour palette, such as whites, greys, and beiges.

Natural materials, such as wood and stone, often pair well with minimalist furniture, contributing to a calm and uncluttered feel.

Abundant natural light is a hallmark of modern interiors, often emphasised with wide windows and glass doors that connect the inside to outdoor spaces. Statement lighting, such as sleek chandeliers or simple pendant lights, acts as both illumination and art, highlighting key architectural features.

Modern homes are designed for flexibility, blending function and comfort for everyday living while maintaining a fresh, current look.

Rustic

Rustic interior design style celebrates the beauty of nature with materials like wood, stone, and iron taking centre stage. Weathered finishes, exposed beams, and aged textures create a relaxed, lived-in, and inviting atmosphere that feels both sturdy and welcoming. This look is rooted in traditional country homes, but its appeal reaches city dwellers who crave authenticity and comfort.

Signature elements include farmhouse tables, barn-style doors, and layers of cozy textiles. Earthy tones and natural textures dominate, from chunky knit throws to reclaimed timber accents.

Lighting is essential; lantern pendants, wrought iron chandeliers, or vintage-inspired wall sconces add warmth and highlight the unique character of rustic interiors.

A rustic home is designed for easy living, where every detail encourages you to slow down and enjoy the simple pleasures of everyday life.

Contemporary

Contemporary interior design style is defined by its fluid blend of modern and classic elements. Spaces are characterised by clean lines, open layouts, and a refined sense of simplicity. The palette tends toward neutrals, greys, whites, and beiges, providing a calm backdrop for bold accents, geometric shapes, and sculptural furnishings.

Texture plays an important role. Smooth finishes, natural materials like wood and stone, and occasional mirrored surfaces create subtle layers of interest.

Lighting is often treated as art: sleek chandeliers, statement pendants, and architectural wall lights do more than illuminate; they shape the mood and highlight structural details.

Carefully chosen furniture with gentle curves, abstract wall art, and curated decor keep each room feeling current, never cluttered. The result is a design style that balances comfort and visual clarity, always ready to adapt as trends evolve.

Industrial

Industrial interior design style takes its cues from urban lofts and converted warehouses.

Exposed brick, steel beams, and unfinished wood provide a striking backdrop, while open layouts and large windows create a sense of spaciousness and light. Surfaces are left raw and honest, celebrating the beauty of natural materials.

Lighting is central to this look. Pendant fixtures with exposed bulbs, industrial-inspired chandeliers, and vintage wall sconces act as both practical features and design statements, emphasising the architecture and character of each space.

Metal furniture and minimalist details are paired with reclaimed wood, distressed leather, and iron for added texture. Splashes of colour, modern artwork, or touches of greenery soften the edges and bring warmth to the room.

Scandinavian

Scandinavian interior design style finds beauty in simplicity. Sunlight pours into every corner, reflected in pale wood floors and a palette of soft whites and muted greys.

Clean lines and uncluttered spaces keep the mood easy and calm, while every element, from mid-century modern chairs to woven rugs, feels thoughtfully chosen. Organic elements such as wood, stone, and indoor plants enhance the natural feeling that’s so central to Scandinavian style.

Scandinavian style embraces natural materials, and so does lighting. Nordic-style pendants, simple sconces, and modest table lamps offer a gentle glow that keeps rooms bright through the darker months.

Even in the smallest details, there’s a focus on comfort, linen cushions, leafy green plants, and subtle geometric patterns add just enough texture.

Traditional

Traditional interior design style is rooted in elegance and history. Influenced by eras before and after World War II, these interiors highlight symmetry, graceful lines, and classic motifs.

Rooms often feature rich colours like royal blues, deep purples, and warm neutrals, paired with patterned wallpapers and classic rugs.

The details matter here. Carved wood furniture, vintage chandeliers, and heritage-inspired accents bring depth and a sense of legacy. Plush fabrics like velvet and brocade, along with gold-framed mirrors, figurines, and artfully chosen wall art, lend a sophisticated finish that captures timeless elegance.

Lighting plays an essential role. Classic chandeliers and ornate lamps offer both gentle light and decorative appeal, completing each room with a comfortable, familiar glow.

Commercial

Commercial interior design style takes its lead from business interiors, bringing a sense of focus and order to home offices and creative spaces. Here, clean lines, ergonomic furniture, and streamlined storage set the stage for productivity, whether your workspace is an entire room or just a thoughtful corner.

Lighting is a quiet but essential feature. Task lamps on desks, sleek pendant lights overhead, and well-placed floor lamps ensure every inch feels bright and functional without losing comfort.

Even with an emphasis on efficiency, there’s room for personality. Add a textured rug or favourite artwork, and the space feels both purposeful and personal.

The best part is that commercial interiors blend easily with other interior design styles, so your workspace can reflect your taste and fit right in with the rest of your home.

Provincial

Provincial style, also known as French provincial or French country, brings a gentle ease to any space. Soft colours, vintage accents, and rustic finishes create the impression of a countryside retreat.

In a provincial house decor style, carved wood furniture and classic rugs anchor the room, while weathered surfaces, cozy textiles, and natural elements add character.

Lighting helps define the mood; iron chandeliers or simple wall sconces offer a soft glow that highlights the textures and shapes unique to this interior design style.

Provincial fits naturally with country style and cottage style spaces, but can be blended with a modern twist by pairing linen curtains with clean lines or mixing vintage furniture and a neutral colour palette for an updated feel.

Vintage

Vintage style celebrates the charm of the past by mixing retro style and antique influences with today’s favourites. This eclectic interior design style is about curating unique decor pieces from different eras, vintage furniture, classic wall art, and eye-catching lighting, all come together to tell a story.

Vintage interiors often blend nostalgic decor, modern touches, and elements from bohemian interiors or Art Deco interiors, creating a space that feels personal and full of character.

Lighting plays its part, too. Ornate table lamps, retro-inspired pendants, and classic chandeliers highlight special finds and set the mood for every room.

In a vintage home, you might spot a mid-century style armchair next to a shabby chic table, or bold patterned cushions brightening up a neutral sofa.

Farmhouse / Modern Farmhouse

Farmhouse style captures that easy, relaxed feeling of country living, blending natural materials like wood, stone, and linen with a practical decorating style.

Exposed ceiling beams, distressed furniture, and a neutral colour palette give farmhouse interiors their familiar, welcoming look. In today’s homes, modern farmhouse brings a fresh perspective, adding clean lines and industrial elements to the mix.

This style is known for open layouts, vintage accents, and a farmhouse aesthetic that’s both classic and current. You’ll often spot barn doors, cozy textiles, and reclaimed wood alongside simple design ideas that make the most of every space.

Lighting is an important detail here; fixtures like iron chandeliers, rustic pendants, or timber fittings tie the whole look together, especially when paired with classic rugs and natural textures. It’s a style that feels lived-in, flexible, and ready for everyday life.

Hamptons

Hamptons style takes its cue from the breezy beach houses of New York’s iconic Hamptons.

Light-filled and effortlessly coastal, these interiors are all about soft whites, ocean blues, and an easy sense of space that feels both refined and relaxed.

The look is defined by airy layouts, classic furnishings, and subtle touches of relaxed luxury, think slipcovered sofas, striped cushions, and pale timber accents. High ceilings and wide windows draw in the light, while details in rattan and silver keep things fresh and timeless.

Lighting is key to the Hampton mood. Lantern pendants or glass chandeliers help create those signature, sunlit interiors, perfect for anyone who wants to capture a bit of the coast, whether you’re decorating a beach house or simply bringing a coastal vibe into city living.

Nantucket

Nantucket style conjures the breeze and salt air of a true seaside home. The palette is soft and understated, blues that echo the ocean, gentle greys, and weathered wood underfoot create an easygoing mood.

Organic elements feel right at home here. Linen cushions, jute rugs, driftwood accents, and woven baskets bring a breezy, lived-in quality to every room. Nautical touches and vintage lanterns finish off the look with just enough charm.

There’s a connection with Hampton style, both use soft colour palettes and classic furnishings, but Nantucket leans further into weathered wood and authentic seaside details for a more casual feel.

Lighting is part of the appeal. Coastal pendants and woven shades cast a gentle glow, perfectly capturing the easygoing feel of this style, with nantucket-style lighting ideas reflecting that breezy, coastal vibe.

Different Types of Chandeliers that Complement the Above Styles  

Choosing the right chandelier can bring your interior style to life and tie your design together. With so many options, from crystal to timber to coastal-inspired pieces, it’s easy to find one that suits both your space and your taste.

The right fixture can quietly anchor a room, making the entire style feel complete.

1. Modern Chandeliers

Modern chandeliers feature clean lines, geometric forms, and bold shapes, making them ideal for midcentury modern and minimalist designs. These fixtures stand out in spaces with a modern twist or a neutral colour palette, and pair well with both bright colours and subtle glam elements. A modern chandelier instantly gives any room a fresh, current feel, and often highlights the key elements that define this decorating style.

2. Crystal chandelier

Crystal chandeliers are a classic choice that never loses their appeal. Their luxurious look fits easily with traditional style interiors and adds a striking touch to modern farmhouse or even mid-century modern spaces. With their ability to catch the light and reflect bright colours, these chandeliers become a natural centrepiece over a dining table or in rooms designed with a neutral colour palette.

3. Alabaster chandelier 

Alabaster chandeliers are known for their soft, flattering light and smooth stone finish. This style suits a range of interiors, from traditional interior design style and French country homes to spaces with a touch of Mediterranean interior design style. Alabaster fixtures add a sense of refinement to dining rooms, entryways, or any area where you want a gentle glow. Their timeless appeal makes them just as fitting in vintage-inspired rooms as in more modern interpretations.

4. Timber chandelier

Timber chandeliers bring a sense of natural beauty to any space. Crafted from wood, these fixtures suit a variety of looks, farmhouse style interiors, rustic cabin, and even homes with a modern twist. Their unique shapes and handmade feel add interest to dining rooms, living areas, or spaces with exposed ceiling beams and other natural elements. Timber chandeliers pair well with cozy textures and distressed furniture, making them a favourite for anyone who values both style and comfort in their home.

5. Farmhouse chandelier

Farmhouse chandeliers add a classic, rustic touch to any home. With wagon wheel shapes or aged metal finishes, these fixtures fit right in with farmhouse aesthetics, country style spaces, and even homes that lean into a modern farmhouse look. They’re often the centrepiece above a dining table or in living rooms with industrial elements and distressed furniture.

Find the right Decorating Style That Suits Your Home

Every home tells its own story, and the variety of interior styles available today means you can shape yours any way you like. From the relaxed charm of coastal homes to the clean lines of modern spaces, these popular interior design styles offer endless inspiration for making your space feel right.

Maybe you’re experimenting with something new, or maybe you’re refining a look you already love; there’s no wrong approach.

As you consider the possibilities, remember that the best design always reflects who you are and how you live.

And if you ever feel stuck, it’s worth taking a closer look at each style or seeking professional advice. Sometimes, all it takes is a little guidance to discover the look that truly feels like home.