Explore 8 trending interior design styles for apartments, from minimalism to farmhouse chic. Discover key features, pro tips, and hints of humor to help you find the perfect aesthetic.
Your home’s style doesn’t just reflect current trends—it also speaks volumes about who you are. But with so many interior design styles floating around on social media, it’s tough to decide which vibe truly fits you. Below are eight of the most beloved apartment design styles of the moment, complete with quick insights, pro tips, and a pinch of humor to keep things fun. Get ready to transform your living space into a personal haven.
1. Scandinavian
Why You’ll Love It
“Scandi” style is all about simplicity, functionality, and coziness. Think light wood furniture, muted color palettes, and airy layouts that maximize natural light.
Key Features
- Neutral, earthy hues (white, beige, soft gray)
- Minimal decor with focus on “hygge” (coziness)
- Natural materials like wood, leather, and wool
Pro Tip
Layer soft throws and textured pillows for extra warmth—especially if you’re prone to chilly winters.
Lighthearted Note
It’s like living in an IKEA catalog but with fewer “some assembly required” nightmares.
2. Industrial
Why You’ll Love It
Industrial style takes its cues from urban lofts and repurposed warehouses. Exposed brick, metal pipes, and raw textures create a rugged, edgy charm.
Key Features
- Exposed structural elements (brick walls, steel beams)
- Dark, moody color schemes (charcoal, gunmetal, deep brown)
- Salvaged or reclaimed materials (old wood, vintage fixtures)
Pro Tip
Add a splash of softness—like a plush rug or comfy sofa—to balance the rawness and keep your space from feeling too austere.
Lighthearted Note
Yes, those exposed pipes on the ceiling are meant to be there. They’re “aesthetic,” not an unfinished renovation project.
3. Mid-Century Modern
Why You’ll Love It
If you adore sleek lines and retro vibes, mid-century modern is calling your name. This style nods to the ’50s and ’60s but remains timeless.
Key Features
- Clean, geometric lines and tapered furniture legs
- Bold pops of color (mustard yellow, teal, burnt orange)
- Natural wood finishes paired with simple silhouettes
Pro Tip
Scout vintage shops or flea markets for authentic mid-century pieces. Even one statement item (like an Eames chair knockoff) can transform your space.
Lighthearted Note
It’s like stepping onto the set of Mad Men—minus the chain-smoking and questionable office politics.
4. Bohemian (Boho)
Why You’ll Love It
Boho style embraces a free-spirited blend of colors, textures, and global influences. If you’re all about eclectic vibes and plant-filled corners, boho might be your jam.
Key Features
- Vibrant patterns (kilim rugs, macramé wall hangings)
- Layered textiles (throw blankets, pillows, tapestries)
- Plenty of greenery and artisanal or vintage accents
Pro Tip
Avoid going too wild with color—pick a few hero shades and let them dominate, with neutrals balancing out the rest.
Lighthearted Note
Get ready for friends asking, “Where’d you get that tapestry?” The answer could be anywhere from Etsy to a backpacking trip in Bali.
5. Minimalist
Why You’ll Love It
Prefer clean lines, clutter-free surfaces, and a sense of “less is more”? Minimalism focuses on open space, functional design, and an almost Zen-like simplicity.
Key Features
- Neutral or monochrome color palette
- Bare essentials in decor and furniture
- Emphasis on open floor plans and hidden storage
Pro Tip
Embrace multi-purpose pieces (like a coffee table with built-in shelves) to keep surfaces clear and maintain that airy feel.
Lighthearted Note
Your guests might wonder if you’ve just moved in—only to realize this is your fully furnished aesthetic.
6. Modern Farmhouse
Why You’ll Love It
For those who crave rustic charm without sacrificing contemporary comfort, modern farmhouse brings the best of both worlds—shiplap walls, barn doors, and sleek finishes.
Key Features
- Neutral, warm palette (cream, beige, soft grays)
- Rustic elements (exposed beams, reclaimed wood) mixed with modern lines
- Cozy textiles like chunky knit throws
Pro Tip
Think layered textures: a jute rug here, a metal accent there. The contrast between old and new is what makes it pop.
Lighthearted Note
Shiplap, shiplap everywhere. Joanna Gaines would be proud.
7. Japandi
Why You’ll Love It
Japandi blends the best of Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian “hygge.” Clean lines, natural materials, and a calm, muted color scheme define this elegant style.
Key Features
- Muted earth tones (soft browns, creams, dusty sage)
- Low-profile furniture with sleek silhouettes
- Emphasis on zen-like simplicity with cozy textures
Pro Tip
Choose quality over quantity—handcrafted pieces that make a subtle statement. This style thrives on intentional simplicity.
Lighthearted Note
It’s essentially a design peace treaty between two famously calm cultures, resulting in an ultra-soothing apartment vibe.
8. Contemporary
Why You’ll Love It
Contemporary design evolves with the times, focusing on the “now.” It features clean lines, neutral palettes, and minimal clutter, but with flexibility to incorporate trends as they come.
Key Features
- Neutral base colors (whites, grays, black) punctuated by on-trend accents
- Smooth surfaces, simple shapes, and strategic pops of color or texture
- Mix of materials—chrome, glass, polished wood—yet never too busy
Pro Tip
Keep decorative elements light and purposeful. A few statement pieces (like an abstract painting or geometric light fixture) can keep the look fresh without overloading the room.
Lighthearted Note
If you’ve ever watched a home makeover show and thought, “I like it, but I need that certain something,” contemporary style might be exactly what you’re missing—it adapts easily to your personal flair.
Final Thoughts
Choosing an apartment design style isn’t just about following trends—it’s about creating a space that resonates with your daily rhythm, personality, and comfort level. From the cozy layers of Scandinavian and boho to the sleek lines of minimalism and contemporary, each style brings its own flavor. Don’t be afraid to blend elements across different aesthetics. After all, your home should feel like it’s unapologetically yours—a place where you can truly unwind, be creative, or simply admire your own excellent taste.
