Choosing your design style has to be one of the most controversial and unspoken topics as an interior designer. Being an interior designer, you’re expected to have it all together: your sense of creativity, sense of colour and a keen eye for detail. However, the harsh reality is that most people don’t have it all together right away. In design school, we are treated as Interior Architects: This role includes studying historical architectural elements from , examining structural design elements and details, space planning, and considering building codes all while learning the importance of materials and their natural properties. Despite so much that is explicitly required of us, never are we told “how” to actually coordinate a space in regards to style, colour and textile. These elements of design are always left up to us. Here are a few of the options that we may choose from:
1. Modern
Contrary to popular belief, this design style was established in the mid-20th century. The more common style that has grown from this time is known as mid-century modern which was born in the 1950s - 60s. This very distinct style generates a heavy focus on form and function through furniture and structural elements. The colours most commonly associated with this style are: earth tone greens, greys, white and include natural materials such as wood and greenery.
1. Contemporary; belonging to or occurring in the present
Just like the formal definition implies, the elements of this design style reflect the meaning. This style takes shape from whatever time period we’re in. This style is ever evolving to adapt to the technology and function of the era. This style houses sub styles such as; Coastal, Scandinavian, Minimalism and Rustic. This style is also based on which part of the world you live in, natural resources and colours hold a heavy influence on this design style.
There are many more design styles that we could discuss such as traditional; a style filled with rich colour and ornamental detail in structure and décor. However, the goal here is to discover how to find what best suits you a designer in the 21st century.
Being an interior designer in this millennial age also requires an active and engaging social media presence. Most people don’t realize, but how you organize and present your social media profile is a reflection of your style. Are all your posts funny and goofy? Do you have a minimal and neutral colour pattern of pictures? Evaluating your socials is one way of identifying your artistic representation.
An additional way to discover your design style is by reflecting on your fashion identity. Your wardrobe of all black and white may represent a liking to minimalism or contemporary modern design. Is your wardrobe filled with trendy streetwear? Does it reflect possible rustic design capability. Maybe you wear pops of colour, loads of pattern and texture, thereby reflecting a design identity tied to art deco, traditionalism or colour contemporary.
Ultimately, your design identity and style should be an extension of your reality and personality. It’s important for not only you as an interior designer, but for your clients as well. Some designers come into their style faster than others; your journey might be more forthcoming. It requires self-awareness, research and time to evaluate trends and details that reflect who you are and aspire to be. The most important thing to remember as a designer is not to get caught up in trying to be the most unique, but to leave every project with a piece of what design means to you.
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