Finding Your Style

The main idea when designing your home is to know what your style is. A lot of people have no clue as to what their style is called. It's good to know specific terms and names used in the design industry because it will make your project much easier.

If you like dark wood furniture without much detail, then you might like traditional-styled pieces. However, if you prefer open spaces, sharp lines and light colors, then you might be a minimalist; two styles that are very far from each other on the design scale.

Then you need to consider when styles come together. Yes, you can mix them up, but it has to be done in a well-rounded manner, not with bits and pieces sticking out like a sore thumb. It's not as hard as you may think.

There are a few main groups of design that you should know. They are easily recognizable and you will find most of them in people's homes.  

Traditional

Elements of traditional design consists of a mix of dark and light colors, dark woods, tailored and refined furniture, decorative molding, symmetrical layouts and a classic feel. Neutrals such as browns, blues, greens and reds are often found and patterns like plaids, toile, florals and simple textures mostly make up accessories. 

You can find traditional pieces for your kids room at on Sunrise Highway and window treatments to accent any room in the house at on Merrick Road.   on South Long Beach Road also carries unfinished traditional-styled furniture that you can customize.

 Modern vs. Contemporary

People think that these two styles are the same when they aren't. Modern elements are somewhat close to traditional themes, but a tad more simplified.  You'll often find square and oval tables, non-decorative furniture, simple textures and more streamlined layouts.  

On the other hand, contemporary design is much more experimental. Wide open spaces, functional furniture, sleek shapes, light colors and the use of metallics.  White is often used to bounce around light and allow certain colors to pop and large oversized pieces of artwork are popular as well.  

Vintage

The vintage style of design can go in a few directions according to what period you style your home around. If you like the 40s and 50s, then having a diner-style kitchen with reds and light blues makes sense. If the 60s and 70s appeals to you, then your home will look completely different. Think retro pieces with pops of color, very mod.

Check out on Sunrise Highway to see if they have vintage inspired appliances. There are a good amount of companies that sell really cool pieces. 

However, going back even further to the 1800s is yet another completely different look.  Colonial and post-war design pieces are fairly simple, like traditional, but have a more rustic and worn feel. Think farmhouse and you got it. Another style you can consider is Victorian. Highly detailed and ornamental, this style of design appears much like dollhouses: feminine and graceful.

For custom restoration from trusted experts, visit Frank Vaccaro over at on South Long Beach Road.  Having unique pieces in your home really makes a difference.  Stop by as well to check out their country and farmhouse styled pieces. 

Mid-Century Design

This style describes art created in the 20th century, roughly between the 1930s and 1970s. It was influenced by Scandinavian design (hello Ikea!) and represents modern developments in art, product design and architecture. Experimenting with color, texture and organic shapes, this movement paved the way for modern and contemporary style.  

When accessorizing a room, think out of the box. Try looking for fabrics at clothing stores to find unique patterns and textures.   on Sunrise Highway can give you some inspiration with their men's wear options while on North Park Avenue has a more colorful and feminine selection.

So whatever you find your style is, do your research to find as many examples as possible. I suggest you start a stylebook so you have an organized collection of things you love. Once you have that, you can start mixing certain elements and really have fun.  

For tips on interior design contact on Sunrise Highway. Not only do they offer decorating help, but they specialize in re-upholstering as well.  on Sunrise Highway has 30 years of experience in space planning, so talking to them couldn't hurt.

Your dream house doesn't have to be perfect. In fact, you'll always make improvements to your environment and as you get older, your tastes could change. But while we are in the present, surround yourself with elements of you! Your space should define who you are and showcase what inspires you. Only then will it continue to give back and make you feel you feel at home everyday.