If you find it difficult to distinguish a minimalist interior from a mid-century one, here we are: we’re here to help you.

Being able to promptly identify each interior design style is more than just a trick to show off to others: it can also help you define your personal style and understand what you might like the most.

It can also give you permission to mix and match according to your sensibility and throw every label to the wind, if that’s what your personal style requires. Naturally, these styles change quickly, so there’s always something new to learn: this is one of the things that makes design “exciting.” And if you land on a style all your own, carry it forward and give it a name: we might just write about it in the future!

Keep reading to see the most important decor styles to know, with their key features that we love.

The maximalist style

More and more: more rugs, more art, more objects.

This no-holds-barred interior design style relies on mixing bold patterns, bright colors, unexpected textures in a technicolor whirlwind: there are very few rules when it comes to maximalism, but we think wallpaper is a good starting point. Try starting in a small space, like a guest room or a bathroom, to limit the amount of walls to cover. Be sure to step back from time to time and look at the entire room. Or, better yet, take a photo with your phone to view with impartiality and “distance,” allowing you to see if the maximalist style is “working” properly in your home.

The minimal style

At the opposite end of the maximalist style, we have the minimal style: the true “less is more” philosophy offers a great scenic impact, with bright and clean spaces that minimize clutter and often have a hyper-contained color palette of neutrals, or black and white. Tip: expect to bring a Marie Kondo into your home if you hope to achieve this look easily.

The Scandinavian style

Deeply rooted in place – particularly, Denmark, Sweden, and Norway, although occasionally Finland and even Iceland are generously grouped into the mix – this aesthetic favors clean lines, wood, and other natural materials. “Scandi” spaces will likely have some of the most famous Nordic design icons, from Eeno Saarinen’s Tulip tables to Hans Wegner’s chairs, and yes, even some well-placed IKEA items (no shame — we don’t demonize the Swedish megastore).

The country style

No list of decor styles is complete without a nod to country. Incorporating rustic elements in a fresh way, this interior design style has long been in vogue for its cozy atmosphere…for the promise of a simpler lifestyle. The hectic pace we’re used to means our generation often craves a slower lifestyle; the country style offers a sense of relaxation with its delicate earth-toned neutrals and natural materials.

The bohemian style

World traveler, this style is for you. The bohemian style favors layers of lush fabrics from faraway lands, like handwoven Moroccan rugs and Japanese prints: expect to see tapestries and macramé planters overflowing with lush greenery – the plant obsession trend is very “right” in a boho space. How to recreate it at home? Everything should look like it came from a flea market in a far-off place: this is a key point!

The Mediterranean style

Linear but with a decidedly exotic touch, this decor style is entirely tied to texture, often in the form of organic and natural finishes.

You should have the illusion of being somewhere near the Mediterranean Sea with furniture made from natural materials like rattan, stone, reclaimed wood, and more, to complete the overall look. It’s like a long seaside vacation you can bring home with you.

The modern classic style

While the adjective “traditional” might seem old and tired, the way it is paired with the term modern and finds space actually speaks of both a love for the past and an eye to the future. Clean lines with beautiful antique objects, ornate moldings, and vintage artwork…Everything our grandparents owned is new again!

The art deco style

Usually characterized by rounded shapes, luxurious fabrics, and “rich” tones, the Deco style has undergone a transformation in recent years, reemerging in a more modern way: in furniture, we see upholstered pieces like sofas and chairs. This creates a calmer energy, emulating waves and curves, and makes the environment more welcoming and intimate.

And here ends our roundup. Which decor style is right for you?