Survey Says You Might Be Confused When It Comes To Interior Design Styles — Let me help!

Hi, I’m Nicole, and I’m building a community for all things home and decor, starting right here in Sacramento! My goal is to teach you the skills you need to design a more efficient, personalized space! Why? Because I was like you once. I felt trapped in my space, curious about design but not sure what to do. I studied design, practiced with my friends and family, and, of course, in my own home.

What’s the point of all this? I learned that so many people are confused about interior design styles, which confuses them about what’s available and, ultimately, what they buy!

I just did a little pop quiz on the BeHappyYoureHome Instagram, and I was surprised by the results. However, I was delighted to know there were people out there who could use my help and a little guidance.

So, let’s break down the quick quiz to see if you answered anything incorrectly!

First Question: Mid-Century Modern or Bohemian?

This is bohemian style all the way! Bohemian can borrow from other decades and has an earthy, whimsical element. We all have that one spiritual friend (or several) whose home always smells like incense and seems to have the air of a world traveler (or hopes to be!). Sorry to burst your bubble, but this is not mid-century Modern. Find out what it is next…

Second Question: Vintage or Mid-Century Modern?

If you guessed vintage, I’m sorry — wrong! Vintage is not a style; it’s an age. It’s a word to describe that the item is at least 20+ years old. If you’re nostalgic and love all things old, then you prefer vintage. However, if you’re into walnut furniture, futuristic lighting, and pops of warm colors, Mid-Century Modern might be the style you’ve been looking for. You can discover what makes this style so unique on your own time. Keep reading!

Third Question: Colorful Eclectic or Contemporary 80's?

So many people got this one wrong, and I LOVE IT!! Colorful is a vibe or a theme — and Eclectic is, in fact, a style — but the examples show one predominant style (the 80s’), so this isn’t eclectic at all!! It’s a modern twist on a classic decade. The 80’s are BACK. What makes this style “Contemporary 80s” is that it was all created or remixed in the last couple of years. Contemporary means the style of today. Let me break it down a little further.

Mid-century Modern (a foundational style) and Contemporary Mid Century Modern (pieces that look like MCM but are for today’s world) exist.

Now, you know a secret keyword when shopping for contemporary pieces from your favorite decades.

Did you know that interior design styles are around 100 years old? Just like fashion, the most iconic designs from decades past always come back—always with a slight twist or modern update. What I love about styles coming back is that you can blend vintage pieces with contemporary finds to create a cohesive home that feels balanced between the past and present.

Fourth Question: Modern and Clean or Scandinavian?

Only eight people got this wrong, but I still want to point out the difference. “Modern and Clean” are not styles. They’re preferences. Modern just means it looks sophisticated, and clean is just your dream 🤣 Scandinavian style is one of my all-time favorites because it celebrates 360-degree design, meaning the pieces look good from every angle. Scandi design also celebrates natural light and greenery and emphasizes natural materials. Scandi rose in popularity alongside Mid Century Modern; sometimes, it’s hard to tell them apart. Just look up the designer to find out.

OK, last one — many of you got this one wrong. Let me explain why this is Eclectic and not maximalist.

5th Question: Eclectic or Maximalist?

For those who guessed Eclectic, congrats — you know a thing or two about design. But for the rest of you — Maximalist is a vibe!! Let me explain:

You could have a Maximalist Bohemian Space, FULL of personality and things. You could also have a Maximalist Urban Modern space FULL of unique art you display. But “Maximalist” on its own is not a style. But Eclectic is! Eclectic means you like to taste a lot of different styles and would never dream of committing to just one. A great Eclectic home finds ways to spread common elements, like patterns, textures, or colors, throughout the house to make what might seem like chaos cohesive.

If you love to thrift and decorate but can’t decide on a single style- that’s OKAY. There’s a label for it, and you’re not alone.

Okay, that wraps up this quick little quiz. I hope you learned something!

Shoutout to Pinterest for making it easier for creators to share Pinterest boards!

P.S. We’ll break down every style over the next few weeks for the last 100 years. Be sure to subscribe to read it all for free 🩷 (also, you can’t really subscribe right now bc my website is down, but try to check back in 2 days 🥹)

Are you curious to learn more about the styles mentioned above? Grab a free guide!

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