The interior design of U.S. small businesses and the decor within them embrace many styles and influences. Some of the most popular words used to describe them are directly from movements such as Art Deco, Bauhaus, and Mid-Century Modernism, while others are more extensive or even timeless terms. Read on to learn about several common styles of the current day.
What are a few of the most compelling styles of small business decor?
Minimalist & Maximalist
Minimalism and maximalism are two opposite ends of the spectrum when it comes to the simplicity or complexity of art and design.
Minimalism in art and design removes unnecessary elements to create a clean and simple design.
On the other hand, maximalism is about adding as much as possible to create a design that is rich and complex.
While both approaches can be used to create aesthetically pleasing art and design, your approach will depend on the look and feel you and your team want to achieve.
Classical
The classical interior design style is characterized by symmetry, balance, and order. This style is associated with the architecture of ancient Greece and Rome, as well as the Renaissance period. It often contains elaborately-decorated columns, molding, and statement furniture pieces.
While the classical style is quite formal, it can also be adapted to create a more relaxed atmosphere — especially when combined with traditional and new traditional decorations.
Traditional
Traditional-style interior design typically boasts classically American and European furniture pieces along with refined decor elements.
If you’re looking to create a traditional-style room in your business, here are a few tips to get you started.
First, choose a color palette that is warm and inviting. Think rich earth tones or timeless neutrals. Then, select furniture pieces that are classic and well-crafted. Choose pieces that will stand the test of time, like a beautifully-made wood dresser or a velvet sofa. Finally, add in some graceful touches, like a chandelier or a grandfather clock, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a traditional-style room that is both stylish and inviting.
New Traditional
The new traditional aesthetic is a new take on a classic style. This updated form of traditional design takes the best of what classic design has to offer and updates it for a modern audience. The result is a look that appears both elegant and edgy, which makes for a striking juxtaposition.
Modern Farmhouse
The modern farmhouse style originated in the rural farmhouses of Europe and early America. These homes were usually built with simple materials and designs, and they were often quite small. Over time, the style began to evolve and change.
Combining country style and contemporary elements, it is often used in homes, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Common features of the modern farmhouse aesthetic are exposed beams, statement fixtures, and folksy furniture.
Industrial
Industrial interior design is one of the more casual styles that has been around since the 1960s. It emerged out of adapting old industrial spaces into living quarters, which meant that the focus was on making the most of the space itself rather than adding elaborate small business decor or embellishments.
The industrial style is all about showcasing raw, unfinished components such as exposed brick, ductwork, pipes, or concrete. It also contains a neutral color palette, with many grays, whites, and blacks.
Industrial interiors often include worn and distressed materials such as reclaimed wood, rusted metal, and vintage furniture or lighting fixtures. The overall effect is a rough and rugged aesthetic that is often softened with textiles like leather, wool, or linen.
One of the strengths of industrial design is its versatility. It can work in a variety of spaces, from an old loft apartment to a modern townhouse or even a traditional home with a few strategic design elements added. This is a great option for those who appreciate a minimalist look but don’t want anything too unembellished.
Chalet
A common choice for wooden cottages and vacation lodges, the chalet interior design style is inspired by the traditional Alpine chalets found in the mountains of Switzerland. Chalet-style interiors feature rustic elements such as exposed wood beams and stone fireplaces. Other common items include comfortable furniture, fur rugs, and warm lighting.
Southwestern
With its warm colors and rough textures, southwestern interior design is inspired by the landscape of the American Southwest. The best southwestern interiors are those that balance form and function, resulting in a space that is both beautiful and practical.
When creating a southwestern-inspired space, focus on earthy colors and materials. Wood, stone, and leather are all great choices. Don’t be afraid to mix and match different textures, too; this is what gives southwestern design its unique character.
Coastal
The coastal interior design style is defined by its casual, comfortable, and nautical feel. Coastal interiors often incorporate beach-inspired materials such as wood and stone, as well as light and airy colors. The goal is to create a space that evokes the feeling of being by the ocean.
Mediterranean
The Mediterranean interior design style is distinguished by its use of natural materials, light colors, and a focus on simplicity and functionality. It is often inspired by the traditional design of homes in the Mediterranean region, which commonly integrates white walls, tile floors, and archways.
Scandinavian
Scandinavian interior design is a minimalistic style that focuses on simplicity and functionality. The style is characterized by clean lines, white walls, and natural materials.
To add a Scandinavian touch to your office, keep your space clutter-free and only use furniture and decor that serves a purpose. Wood, stone, and wool are all great materials to use in a Scandinavian space. Finally, don’t be afraid to add a bit of color. While white is the predominant color in Scandinavian design, a pop of color can add interest and personality to a space.
Japandi
The Japandi style combines Japanese and Scandinavian design. Although they’ve originated from different parts of the globe, these interior designs may have much more in common than you think!
Both Japandi and Scandinavian designs are inspired by simplicity and natural elements; you’ll often see even more wood and plants in the Japandi style, which features richer colors and textures. Its goal is to create a sustainable, serene environment.
Additionally, wabi-sabi is a Japanese aesthetic that celebrates the beauty of imperfection and impermanence in design, such as a cracked vase or a weathered wooden tabletop.
Wabi-sabi encourages us to appreciate the charm of nature, embrace the passage of time, and find harmony in the imperfect.
Bohemian
Bohemian interior design has a free-spirited, eclectic (wide-ranging) style. This type of design is often described as being relaxed. It often incorporates vintage and antique pieces, as well as natural materials like wood, stone, and plants.
Bohemian design is all about creating a space that reflects your company’s preferences and values. You can mix and match old and new textures, patterns, and colors. And, of course, make sure your space reflects your leadership’s sense of style!
What’s next?
Though not all small business decor falls into these core styles, they serve as an outline of this dynamic field, especially when viewed in the context of history. To boldly push your workspace and its creative media into the future, contact us for complete branding assistance.