Your Own Personal Style of Home Décor

Are you... Ranch, Classical, Craftsman, French, Spanish, English, Country, Colonial, Contemporary ... Confused?

If you're not an interior designer, it can be difficult deciding which style of home decoration fits you best. After all, just looking at photos or swatches can't really compare to seeing entire rooms furnished and decorated. So to better help you decide which home theme or style is most appropriate, here are some brief explanations on the different options available:

1. Traditional

This is a timeless look that never grows old. Many prefer the traditional style for its warm, inviting and welcoming atmosphere. Classic colors such as light wood tones and neutral shades, along with symmetrical designs and classic prints such as floral patterns help to make the overall effect even more beautiful.

This is not a look for adventurous types who are ready to experiment with exciting new designs or bold colors. But for those who may be uncertain and would prefer to play it safe when it comes to home décor, the traditional look is ideal.


2. Contemporary

Some say the times should dictate the décor. Contemporary decor includes looks that are considered "edgy" and more adventurous. The typical color palette for a modern theme includes black, gray, silver, red and white. Basic geometric shapes abound. Floral patterns won't be found.

Metal is a common material used in modern styles of furniture. Metal wall plaque, sculptures, and contemporary wall hangings are examples. Minimalism, form, and artistic expression are the principles on which this theme resides.

3. Country

This is "down home" living, as they say, putting you right smack dab right in the middle of the country. It's a rustic environment that's comfy, but not too fancy. Country styles of furniture and décor have a "lived in" look. Vintage fabrics, stripes, floral and checkered patterns are common in a country theme. Distressed furniture, wall art depicting barnyard critters such as roosters, horses and cows are typical, as are decorative plates, bowls and pottery. You'll also find bright colors and shades of red, orange, brown and yellow.

4. Tropical

Ahhh. Get out the umbrella drinks. This is a theme that lets you bask in the restorative ambience of the tropical islands, without ever leaving your home. You can almost feel the warm rays of the sun, the spray the ocean and the soft sand between your toes.

Bring the tropics home by using décor infused with light and bright hues of blue, yellow, orange and green. Find fabric pattern bedecked with palm trees, hibiscus blooms and floral designs. Add to the feeling with home accents using tropical plants, shells, woven baskets and even bamboo mats. Top it all off with a surfboard or thatched palapa "roof" effect, indoors or out.

5. Ethnic

Are you the type that likes to go "native"? An ethnic or tribal theme can be conveyed by dark earth tones like browns, deep reds, yellows and greens. Home accessories that will help you complete an ethnic look include beaded patterns, clay figures, terracotta sculptures, masks, wooden bowls and natural ornaments. Wood is the most common material found in such a theme. Metal accessories, such as those in a contemporary setting, are considered the thematic opposite of an ethnic look.

Having a general style or thematic goal in mind before you begin planning the décor of your home will make the process much easier and help you achieve a harmonious, unified look throughout.