Decorating your home is the perfect way to express yourself. Whether you're a fan of trying out new interior design ideas or just want to make your apartment your own, decorating can help create a unique look that fits your style and personality.
With so many different styles and inspirations available, it's a bit of a challenge to decide which one will suit you best, but learning more about some of the most popular styles used to decorate homes may make this process simpler.
Inspired by the Roaring '20s, the art deco design style features clean lines and geometric patterns. Combine sleek lines and shapes like squares and triangles with deep colors and intricate details.
Think brocade fabrics for furniture and a large clock with a simple, clean face for wall decor. Furniture should be timeless and classic with a few bold curves like you'd find in a luxurious chaise longue. Mix glass with brass and leather for a true touch of art deco design. Antique artwork and sculptures can complete the look.
More info:
Asian style definitely has a distinctive look, no matter which country you draw your inspiration from. Red is the most prominent color in this niche, often combined with brass or gold.
Look for florals in bold colors combined with images of dragons, cranes or Buddha. Mix and match elements like carved wood, colorful rugs and mirrored drawer fronts.
Keep in mind that Asian design blends calming motifs with bold patterns to create an eclectic look. Consider painting a feature wall in your apartment a bold red. But remember that if you rent your place, you may have to repaint it before you move out.
More info:
If you're a free spirit at heart, then bohemian décor is probably right for you. This trendy decorating style mixes and matches florals, faux fur textures and natural elements, such as crystals or woven baskets to create an eclectic look.
Combine old and new elements and organic textures with sleek furniture and you've got an instant bohemian vibe. Scatter rugs, funky light fixtures and vintage wall prints make boho-chic a lot of fun to look at and a very expressive form of interior design. Get creative and choose bold patterns combined with soft pastels and feathers for a fun look.
More info:
If you love clean lines and ultra-modern style, contemporary interior design is for you. From the mid-century modern era of Eames and Knoll to today's chic looks, contemporary décor brings everything simple and sleek into the home.
Popular colors include gray, black and white with polished nickel finishes and materials like glass and leather. There are very few adornments, patterns or bold carvings in this style.
Instead, think more in minimalist terms, with one or two statement pieces like a colorful abstract painting or a large, unique sculpture creating a focal point in the room. Lighting plays a big role in contemporary style, too. Use sputnik lights and track lighting for statement-making illumination.
More info:
Inviting and warm, rustic style combines a farmhouse look and feel with a few touches of industrial design. Barn-wood tables, eucalyptus leaf wreaths and large glass hurricane lamps are popular elements of this style.
Colors like cream, brown and green are hallmarks of the rustic look, but today's designers are integrating elements like metal piping to give this style an industrial flair. Add a plaid throw blanket and a comfy rocking chair and you've got rustic style. It's easy to decorate in rustic style using thrift-store finds and antiques that bring a touch of classic Americana into your space.
More info:
With more than 40 years of experience covering the multifamily rental industry, Apartment Guide is your authority for rental advice and apartment living. From your initial search to your next move and everything in between, we provide comprehensive tips and guides to answer all of your renter questions. We also highlight industry news and up-to-date national, state, city and neighborhood price and data trends to help you better understand and navigate today's rental market.