There are as many interior decorating styles as there are people who want to decorate. Which immediately presents the age-old question: "Where do I start?"
It can help if you appreciate what influences the way we decorate our home - indeed, why we decorate them at all!
Interior decorating styles are based on many different factors, including cultural and historical. They are also influenced by fashion, various discoveries in science and technology, taste, climate conditions, affluence and necessity.
What defines one style from another?
It's all very subjective, but even if you know nothing about the terminology used, you wouldn't find it difficult to distinguish between many of the styles used today.
For example, if you entered a room which was very sparsely furnished, with a couple of rugs on wood floorboards, bare walls, and brightly colored pieces of fabric loosely placed over simple furniture, you'd probably think of ethnic influences.
On the other hand, a room with wall to wall carpets, heavy curtains and drapes, as much upholstered furniture as you could fit into the room, and wallpapered walls covered in pictures, you'd most likely think the word 'victorian'.
This room from a museum in Romania shows fabrics and rugs as they would have been used in the past in a typical village home.
Almost every country has similar historical reconstructions, and these are often used as the basis for a unique style of decor.
Why do we decorate - or not?
For many reasons. Consider a couple in their first home. This is where they're going to live for the first few years. It's where they hope to raise a family, to entertain friends and family. They want to enjoy an attractive home with nice possessions.
And, lets face it, like all of us they want to impress (just a little bit, anyway).
So decorating is right up there at the top of the list. If they've been recently married, then their gift requests will probably have decorating in mind. Items such as sofas and other home furnishings will have been given.
And that's when style rears it's head
Once the decision is made to decorate, the question then arises - what interior decorating style should we use? How do we know which style is suitable? Will we like it when it's finished?
So here are some topics for you to look at to help you with your interior decor.
Find your decorating style
You'll be able to narrow down the choices and options by looking at your likes, dislikes, and the overall suitability of a particular style.
Cottage Style Decorating
Cottage style is one of the easiest to achieve, provided you have the right sort of property.
Mission Style Decorating
Here's a style which has always had its supporters. Could it be what you're looking for?
Tuscan Style Decorating
Always a favorite, and can be easily adapted to suite circumstances and budgets.
Country Style Decorating
Probably the most popular of all styles, but what exactly is it?
Decorating Victorian Style
The Victorians were innovators, and their style of decorating reflects their adventurous spirit.
Return to Home Interior Decorating from Interior Decorating Styles
