Learn the history and key elements of your favorite design aesthetics.

Maybe you have an idea in mind but don’t knowhow to define your ideal style.

Use these timeless aesthetics as inspiration for your next home decorating project.

midcentury modern living room

Credit:Emily J Followill

To achieve this cozy Nordic look, play with natural light, warm woods, and muted colors.

Incorporate plush area rugs and throw blankets for a warm spot to relax.

“It is a very beautiful aesthetic, but it can sometimes feel cold.

Neutral living room with Scandinavian style

Credit: Victoria Pearson

“Throws, pillows, trays, and accessories really go a long way.”

Modern Farmhouse

The modern farmhouse aesthetic isn’t just for those who live in the country.

Incorporate clean lines, neutral colors, and raw materials for the perfect combination of this contemporary-meets-rustic charm.

White kitchen with island and wooden tops

Credit: Werner Straube

Work with what you’ve got and showcase natural materials to create modern farmhouse style.

And don’t forget the shiplap!

Midcentury Modern

As the name implies,midcentury modern stylecame to life in the mid-20th century.

Rustic doorway white wall large mirror

Credit: The Wilde Project

Well-known designers like Ray and Charles Eames, Eero Saarinen, and Harry Bertoia emerged from this era.

Midcentury modern elements include wood finishes and furnishings, geometric shapes, clean lines, and bold accent colors.

Form follows function with this design style, and nods to nature are key.

industrial kitchen

Credit:John Granen

French-country style exudes casual, inviting elegance.

While similar to farmhouse styles, French country takes a more feminine, sophisticated approach.

Furniture with weathered wood and chipped paint surfaces is key to a French country-inspired space.

Fraise home tour living room with eclectic furniture

Credit:Annie Schlechter

Balance rustic decor with a crystal chandelier or gilded mirror.

Utilize materials like distressed leather for furniture and mixed metals for lighting, hardware, and accents.

Showcase salvaged items such as gears and old machine parts to impart industrial style into an existing look.

modern living room with circle patterned rug

Credit: Kim Cornelison

Turn to caged lights and Edison bulbs to bring the style together.

Contemporary

“Many people use the terms modern and contemporary interchangeably.

However, contemporary design is really what is happening in the design world at the current moment.

pale blue green country bedroom paneling

Credit: Abby Murphy

Contemporary style is defined by evolving modern trends and tends to be neutral, sleek, and minimal.

The most popular colors for contemporary design are neutrals and shades of black and white.

Adding a pop of color to your decor can make the look feel more inviting.

bright and colorful midcentury modern living room

Credit: David Tsay

This seaside aesthetic imitates a slow-paced lifestyle with its light colors and textures.

Maximalist

More is more when it comes to maximalism.

Mendelson says to trust your decorator.

boho chic living room with textured chandelier

Credit: Nathan Schroder

“Maximalist design really requires an experienced eye for it to be successful.

Too much in a space can feel chaotic if it’s not done carefully,” he says.

Boho

“Boho” is short for Bohemian and refers to a free-spirited, rule-breaking lifestyle.

Art deco style loft

Credit:Courtesy of Eric Piasecki

The aesthetic embraces rich colors, busy patterns, and diverse decor.

While there are no rules withboho-style decor, there are a few guidelines to help you get started.

Then supplement with global-inspired accents, such as Moroccan rugs or macrame wall art, collected from travels.

The goal of boho style is a relaxed, collected-over-time look with both glam and retro influences.

Finish the space with botanicals that will breathe life into your new space.

The opulent Art Deco era lasted from the early 1920s to the late 1930s.