While interior designing is all about making your spaces resonate with your personality and preferences in the best way possible, we might require some professional help in achieving the desired results. That’s why we consult interior designers, who give our ideas a proper shape and implement them in practical ways. However, doing a little research before consulting a designer about your dream home interior is always recommended to better understand the possibilities and technicalities of the process. So to help you in your “home”work, we have curated a glossary of 30 descriptive terms commonly used by interior designers and their definitions for a more informed consultation process.
See also: How does interior design affect your well-being?
Aesthetic terms
Sophisticated
Boasting of elegance and refinement, this term is used to define a design theme that is high in detailing and results in a polished overall look.
Elegant
This is the term you might come across in the context of grace and style in appearance or manner. It is achieved by the process of employing materials and finishes that are simple yet have a luxurious charm.
Cosy
Facilitating optimal comfort and relaxation, a cosy space is characterised by a warm and inviting atmosphere that makes the space feel snug. Warm colours and soft textures are the key elements of such a space.
Opulent
A rich and luxurious design theme, this involves the use of high-end materials like velvet, gold and marble in rich colour schemes like jewel tones for a stylish look.
Industrial
Raw and unfinished elements that give the space an edgy and dynamic feel fall under this theme. Think features like exposed brick, steel, beams and concrete, reminiscent of an urban warehouse or factory aesthetic.
Spatial terms
Open concept
Emerging as a popular trend in modern and contemporary designs, open concept is a layout that combines multiple areas of a home into a single space that facilitates flow.
Compact
Used in the context of small areas, this refers to the efficient use of space in the available area in the most functional manner, often by incorporating smart storage solutions.
Intimate
This design creates a sense of closeness and privacy, generally by using smaller or enclosed spaces and cosy furnishings.
Expansive
Displaying a sense of openness and spaciousness, this is a design that is achieved with the help of high ceilings and large windows.
Colour terms
Neutral
Including colours like beige, grey, white and taupe are esse ntial for your space as they act as a backdrop that can complement various other colours and styles.
Vibrant
Nothing better than some bright and lively hues to add energy and excitement to the space. Think bold reds, blues and yellows for a maximalist and cheerful decor theme.
Monochromatic
For a cohesive look, people often prefer a colour scheme that uses different shades and tints of a single colour. Whites and greys are popular choices for this.
Muted
Create a calming and understated effect using soft, subdued colours, often achieved using pastel or desaturated shades.
Material terms
Textured
A dynamic and multi-sensory space can be achieved with surfaces or materials with a tactile quality that enhances both visual and physical interest. Woven fabrics, rough stone or embossed wallpapers are the way to go for this.
Glossy
Popular among modern and polished design themes, such surfaces flaunt a high-shine finish that have reflective properties.
Matte
Surfaces with a f;at, soft finish, these non-reflective surfaces contribute to a more understated and muted aesthetic.
Rustic
Natural and unrefined materials have a charm of their own. Reclaimed wood, distressed metal or stone are often used to evoke a sense of country charm of ruggedness.
Design elements
Minimalist
A much sought-after design style, minimalism is characterised by simplicity, clean lines and a lack of clutter, focusing only on essential elements.
Luxurious
A high-end and extravagant affair, this is all about employing rich materials, intricate details and a sense of indulgence.
Eclectic
No better way to create a personalised and unique space that is totally “you” than mixing various styles, periods and cultural influences in a tasteful manner.
Transitional
A balanced and timeless look can be achieved by blending elements of traditional and contemporary themes in the right way.
Textural
Different textures can be used in combination to add depth and interest to the space. An example of this is combining soft fabrics with hard surfaces.
Lighting terms
Ambient lighting
The overall illumination to the room provided by general lighting falls under this. This is achieved through the use of ceiling lights or recessed lights.
Task lighting
Focused lighting is required for specific activities, achieved through illumination provided by reading lamps or under-cabinet lighting.
Accent lighting
To highlight certain features, objects or details of a space, we require this kind of illumination. You might want to incorporate this near art pieces or architectural details.
Natural lighting
Illumination from natural sources entering through windows and skylights not only enhances the mood and energy of the space, but also facilitates energy-efficiency.
Furniture terms
Modular
Flexibility and adaptability are the needs of the hours. They are offered by furniture pieces that can be rearranged or reconfigured to fit different needs and layouts.
Custom
Tailored to unique requirements or preferences, such pieces are designed and built specifically for a particular space or individual according to demand.
Statement piece
This refers to a bold or distinctive piece of furniture or decor that serves as a focal point in a room. An ornate chandelier or a unique sofa are common examples.
Ergonomic
Prioritising comfort and efficiency, such furniture is characterised by adjustable elements and supportive features to enhance user experience.
FAQs
How is a modern design different from contemporary ones?
While modern refers to a particular historical period and style from the early to mid-20th century, contemporary design reflects current trends and has the tendency to evolve over time.
What does minimalist design entail?
Focusing on simplicity and functionality, minimalist design is characterised by clean lines, neutral colours and simple furnishings and decor that keep clutter at bay.
What is the difference between rustic and farmhouse designs?
Rustic designs generally used natural, rough-hewn materials aiming for a rugged aesthetic, whereas farmhouse design does the same for a cosy space with vintage and practical elements.
What are the key features of industrial design?
This theme resembles the appearance of warehouses and factories and features raw and unfinished materials and a utilitarian approach to furnishings.
What does textured mean in the context of interior design?
Surfaces or materials with a tactile quality that create interest and contrast within a room fall under textured elements.
How can eclectic design be defined?
Eclecticism involves the blending of various styles, periods and cultural influences to result in a unique space with a diverse yet cohesive look.
What is the role of ambient lighting?
Ambient lighting refers to the overall illumination of the rooms that ensure optimal levels of brightness for the space and is achieved through ceiling fixtures and recessed lighting.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |
