Characterised by sleek, simple decor, the modern interior design style incorporates monochromatic colour palettes and minimalist furnishings. For this style, your living spaces will combine all-natural materials with open-plan rooms for an understated, classical look. This interior style stems from early 20th century European design, particularly the Bauhaus school of design, as well as Scandinavian influences.

• Key colours – Neutrals, white, black, grey, beige

• Essential materials – wood, glass, leather, metal

Not to be confused with modern design, contemporary interior design focuses on current trends. This style is hard to pin down as it’s constantly moving forward with the latest interior trends – and utilises elements from a variety of styles. If you’re interested in this style, keep a close eye on current interior design magazines.

• Key colours – Go for neutrals, particularly black and white. Add extra pops of colour to make a statement.

• Essential materials – Woven textiles, soft textiles, silk, metal, wood, stone

Inspired by the classical designs of the 18th and 19th centuries, traditional interior design is reminiscent of period houses and country estates. If you feel passionate about historical design, fine art and antiques, then this could be the style for you. Centre rooms around a focal point, such as a fireplace, for an authentic look.

• Key colours – Utilise a mix of neutrals and earthy tones, such as beige and brown.

• Essential materials – Wood panelling, linen, silk, leather, stained glass.

It doesn’t get cosier than Scandinavian interior design. With warm blankets and clean lines, this style is both comfortable and practical for your home. Natural light, neutral colours and reduced clutter make your space airy and relaxing for nights in. Adding a rich mix of textures creates a sense of hygge in living rooms and bedrooms. Whilst they share some elements with minimalism, Scandinavian interiors are more laidback, providing room to display decorative elements.

• Key colours – Neutral shades, pastels, blush rose, greys.

• Essential materials – Wood, stone, wool, leather, linen, glass.

Luxury interior design combines high quality furnishings with statement lighting and art pieces to create a lavish and elegant home. This style is focused on making your home environment as luxurious as possible. Textiles should be sumptuous and colours vibrant and bold. Add a chandelier to create a focal point in your dining room or living room.

• Key colours – Black, white, beige, jade, maroon, blue, gold, silver.

• Essential materials – Marble, stone, metals, velvet, silk, leather, glass.

With a touch of boho glamour and rustic farmhouse style, shabby chic interior design combines country with luxury. Along with an airy, muted colour scheme, you’ll add a touch of edge to your interiors with rusty metals and intricate textures. Shabby chic aims for a lived-in look – think distressed chalk paint on wooden tables and chairs.

• Key colours – Creams and beiges, blush pink, lavender and sage green.

• Essential materials – Distressed wood, metals, linen, floral fabrics, chalk paint.

Eclectic interior design has a little bit of everything. Transcending styles and palettes, this fun style is bold and maximalist, whilst avoiding clutter. Eclectic interiors give you an opportunity to break all the rules of design, getting creative with a myriad of textures, patterns and colours. Incorporate quirky statement pieces as a focal point that grabs the eye.

• Key colours – Emerald green, turquoise, yellow, orange, black and white.

• Essential materials – Mixed textiles, wood, ceramics, patterned wallpaper.

Merge past and present in your décor with vintage interior design. This design style blends vintage furnishings, fabrics and accessories with more modern elements. By adding revived vintage pieces, contemporary spaces can be made welcoming and ultra-stylish. You may feel inspired by a particular era – from the three flying ducks wall decor of the 50s and 60s to the lava lamps of the 70s. Alternatively, you might like to mix up different eras for a unique look that stands the test of time.

• Key colours – Cream, beige, teal, grass green, peach, pink.

• Essential materials – Wood, copper, glass, ceramics, stone.

Hate clutter? Out of all the interior design styles, this is the best choice for you. Minimalist interior design combines open spaces, clean lines and natural lighting. Minimalistic interiors strip down furnishings and décor to the bare essentials. With a monochromatic colour scheme, streamlined storage and practical furniture, your space will remain tranquil and calm throughout the day.

• Key colours – White, black, grey, beige, cream. Add touches of sage green or teal for a pop of colour.

• Essential materials – Stone, wood, metal, glass, ceramics, textured textiles.

Retro yet practical, mid-century interior design never dates. This sleek and sophisticated style combines natural materials with geometric patterns and unique shapes. Mid-century interiors blur boundaries – pairing plastic with wood and metal, warm tones with neutrals. Add vintage pieces and indoor plants to create a relaxed, homely feel.

• Key colours – Orange, yellow, brown, cream, beige, black and white.

• Essential materials – Wood, metal, concrete, plastic, glass, geometric fabrics.