Many people are familiar with popular interior design styles—like Modern, Coastal, Hamptons, Contemporary, or Industrial—but knowing exactly which style suits you can feel a little overwhelming. And that’s okay!
The truth is: you don’t need to choose just one. In fact, many of the most beautifully styled homes you see (including those on our Instagram and in our property styling projects) blend two or more interior design styles—think coastal contemporary or modern industrial. The magic lies in finding a balance that reflects your personality and lifestyle.
Here’s our guide to discovering your interior design style:
1. Research Interior Design Styles
Start by exploring well-defined design styles. Save the ones you’re visually drawn to, even if you don’t love every aspect of them. Maybe you adore the clean lines of modern design, but not its minimalism—or perhaps you enjoy coastal aesthetics without wanting to use much rattan. Learning the characteristics of each style helps narrow your preferences.
2. Use Pinterest (and Instagram) to Curate Your Visual Taste
Pinterest is your best friend when it comes to identifying your interior style. Start pinning photos that inspire you under boards like “Modern Living Rooms” or “Coastal Bedrooms.” Then take a closer look—do you see lots of neutral tones? Black-framed furniture? Minimalist artwork? These patterns reveal which elements consistently speak to your style.
(Follow Blink Living on Pinterest for fresh, real-life property styling inspiration!)
3. Let Your Wardrobe Guide You
Your fashion choices say a lot about your home aesthetic. Ask yourself:
- Do you prefer neutrals and clean lines? → You might love Scandinavian or Minimalist design.
- Love bold prints and colour? → Think Bohemian or Eclectic.
- Choose structured and timeless pieces? → Likely drawn to Modern or Contemporary.
- Enjoy soft textures and romantic details? → Consider Traditional or French Country.
4. Consider Your Lifestyle Needs
Your interior design style should also support the way you live. For example:
- If you love entertaining, you might favour open-plan layouts and durable materials, traits common in modern interiors.
- If you live with pets, certain styles like Art Deco or Eclectic (which often include velvet and leather) may naturally work with your lifestyle.
5. Test It Out in Real Life
Start experimenting with small styling changes in your home. Switch up a guest bedroom with new bedding and bedside tables, or try styling a coffee table using the colours and textures from a look you love. This helps you understand how a style feels in real life—not just in a curated Pinterest photo.
Final Thoughts
There’s no “perfect” formula for finding your interior design style—it’s about self-expression, trial and error, and ultimately creating a space that feels like you. Whether you lean coastal, contemporary, or somewhere in between, you’ll know you’ve nailed it when your space makes you feel calm, inspired, and right at home.