I’ve always been curious about my personal design style. I mean, I’ve been an interior design enthusiast for a while now, but somehow I just never got around to defining it. I know what I like, and I know what I don’t like, but I never sat down to take one of those “What’s your decor style?” quizzes. Maybe it’s because I’ve always felt I needed to figure it out on my own. And I plan to do just that—right here on the blog.
So, why now? Well, I’m getting ready to move into my first apartment (cue the happy dance), and I’m using this blog to channel all that excitement while I dive deep into the world of interior decorating. It’s my way of learning out loud, sharing what I’m discovering as I go. I might not know it all yet, but I’m determined. And hey, putting it out there keeps me accountable.
This week’s post is all about how I feel about three popular design styles—rustic, boho, and contemporary—and whether any of them could be the one. But before we get into those, let’s talk about the big picture: Minimalism vs. Maximalism. Where do I land on the spectrum?
Maximalism
Let’s start with the loud one. Maximalism embraces the mantra that more is more—think bold patterns, vibrant colors, rich textures, and an unapologetic display of personality. It’s basically a sensory playground.
How do I feel about it?
It’s a bit much for me. Like, I love a bold color moment, but as an accent—not all over my walls. If I painted my entire living room pink or sunshine yellow, I’d lose my mind. I like my space quiet, cozy, and calm. I grew up with a maximalist mom, and maybe that’s why I’m craving some visual peace now.
What I do appreciate is how deeply rooted maximalism is in self-expression and playful experimentation. I love that it says “yes” to everything. My issue? The vibrant overload and feeling like every inch is screaming for attention. Even the scaled-back version still feels like too much.
But if you are a maximalist, I see you. I love your creative spirit. Keep showing up and doing your thing boldly.
Minimalism
Minimalism is the calm after the maximalist storm. It’s all about simplicity and function. Think clean lines, clutter-free spaces, open layouts, and a neutral color palette. It creates a vibe of ease, peace, and freedom.
Now this is my thing. I heard freedom and relaxation and ran toward it like it was offering me a glass of red wine. I’m all about creating a space that feels calm, open, and easy to live in.
But I do have one tiny problem with minimalism: when it’s done wrong, it can feel sterile. Too many neutral tones, no personality? Yeah, no thanks. My ideal minimalism still has vibes—a little warmth, some texture, and a pop of personality. A space that tells your story, not just mimics your favorite influencer’s living room.
So, yes. Minimalism is my home base. But not the cold, soulless kind. I’m talking about warm minimalism. Clean lines, cozy corners, and a little “me” in every detail.
Bohemian (Boho) Style
Boho design traces its roots back to the 19th-century artistic movement. Inspired by nomads and creatives, it celebrates global influences, sustainability, self-expression, and curated chaos. It’s layered, eclectic, and full of personality.
What I Like
Boho feels like freedom. It’s dynamic, versatile, and cozy. The furniture is plush and inviting (a big yes from this lady of leisure—at least in spirit). I never sacrifice comfort, and boho gets that. I also love the appreciation for unique, handcrafted pieces that tell a story. That’s the kind of intentionality I’m into.
What I Don’t
Okay, here’s the thing. Macramé wall hangings? Fringed everything? I’m a certified hater. It’s not that they’re ugly—they’re just not for me. The same goes for the endless woven baskets. One or two? Cute. A whole collection? It’s too much.
How I’d Use It
Since we already know I’m a minimalist at heart, that’s the foundation I’m working from. I’d sprinkle in a few boho elements—like a super comfy lounge chair, a woven storage basket (yes, one), and a couple of unique artisan pieces to add depth and personality. Maybe a vintage rug with earthy tones, something that whispers stories from another part of the world. Cozy and curated is the goal.
Contemporary
Contemporary interiors are basically style chameleons—streamlined silhouettes, neutral foundations, and a knack for evolving with trends. It’s adaptable, clean, and always feels “of the moment.”
What I Like
It’s timeless. It borrows from different design styles and somehow blends them in a way that feels fresh, sophisticated, and uncluttered. I love that it favors natural materials and simplicity. I’m just now realizing how much of great design comes down to using materials that don’t age out.
What I Don’t
Here’s the catch. Because it’s ever-changing, keeping up can be exhausting. Like, can we really trust the chameleon? What’s trendy today might be outdated in five years. Also: open-plan living? Eh. I don’t hate it, but sometimes a girl just wants to cook in peace without an audience.
How I’d Style It
Contemporary’s adaptability is its power. I’d keep the minimalist core and layer in timeless materials like wood, linen, and stone. I’d stick to clean lines and neutral tones and add a pop of contrast with modern black fixtures or sleek hardware. Basically, take the best parts and leave the rest.
Rustic
Rustic design is inspired by early American settlers—it’s rugged, practical, and rooted in natural beauty. Think reclaimed wood, stone, earthy textures, and a lived-in, cozy charm.
What I Like
Its rawness. There’s something so grounding about a chunky, imperfect wood coffee table in a clean living room. Wood elements bring instant warmth, texture, and character. As a nature girlie, I love anything that feels organic and unpolished. I’m also big on craftsmanship, and rustic design celebrates that.
What I Don’t
Rustic style on its own can feel like a lot. I need modern touches to balance it out, or I’d feel like I was living in a Pinterest barn. Exposed beams are a little too “log cabin” for me. Also, the strict earthy palette isn’t really my thing; I like having the option to bring in contrast or even something shiny. A no to black accents? That’s a crime in my world.
What I’d Keep
The imperfections and rugged charm? Absolutely staying. They balance out my perfectionist side. I’d pull in wood tones, subtle earth colors, and maybe even a vintage ladder shelf (for blankets). Rustic warmth layered over a minimalist foundation sounds like the beginning of a great story, don’t you think?
So, where do I land?
I think I’m off to a pretty good start. We’ve established I’m a minimalist with a few maximalist leanings—mainly when it comes to self-expression and personality. I love the versatility of boho, the timeless touch of contemporary, and the rustic wood… (insert wood pun here because I clearly can’t resist a dad joke moment).
We’re still in the early stages of this design journey, but I’m so glad you’re here with me. Hopefully this post gave you some inspiration (or at least a few laughs). Let me know if you’re figuring out your own style too. I’d love to hear what’s calling your name.
Until next time,
Bye for now!