Picturesque traditional house with autumn foliage and a white picket fence in London, Ontario.

Take a Deep Breath

If you’ve tried to figure out your home’s style before, but it felt confusing or the results were inconclusive, relax—you’re not alone. We’ll work through this together.

I’ll guide you through the method I use to determine a client’s home style before making any design recommendations. Even if you’re not planning major changes, this exercise can still be insightful and give you a glimpse into an interior designer’s approach.

So, let’s dive in!

This is a pure modern room, but pure modern rooms are not limited to homes constructed with pure modern architecture. Some people pursue a modern look within a traditional building, making the overall theme of their home eclectic in nature.

Evaluating Your Home’s Style

We’ll break things down into steps. Yes, I’m giving you homework, but trust me, this will be fun!

Step 1: Look at Your Building

Step outside and take a good look at your building. If you’re unsure of the architectural style (no worries, most of us aren’t architecture experts), see if you can ask neighbors, long-time residents, or local home enthusiasts for insights.

Homes in a neighborhood often share characteristics. If the buildings were constructed around the same time, you might even find a common architectural era or style.
If you’re really interested, look into public records for blueprints or building permits, which can reveal your home’s age and design intent.

This step sets the stage by giving you a sense of your home’s architectural roots, which is helpful for understanding its style identity. Plus, it’s great material for dinner conversations!

If your home has a historical or revival style, explore its history. Read up on the style if it resonates with you, or get inspired on Pinterest by searching for ideas that match your home’s aesthetic.

If it seems like you have a historical or a revival style on your hands, it would be a great idea to do some reading about your home’s style if it seems and see if any of its history resonates with you.

This building’s architectural exterior is one hundred percent modern. The most obvious choice for furnishings and decor within this architectural shell are modern in nature, but plenty of other options exist, such as Bohemian, fusion and transitional.

Step 2: Check the Architectural Shell and Layout

Now, let’s look inside. Take a walk around, phone in hand, and snap photos of:

Door frames, mantels, window frames, fireplace surrounds, baseboards, moldings, and ceiling details.
If you have stairs, capture the banisters and balusters, too.

Create a photo grid and review what you see:

Do the architectural elements have a cohesive style? If they do, your home likely falls under a traditional, transitional, or modern architectural style.
Do these elements look like they were installed when the home was first built? If they appear original, your home’s interior architecture may align with its exterior, particularly if it’s a heritage home.
Are there mixed elements added over time? This often points to a transitional style, blending modern and traditional.

If the details feel all over the place, you might have an eclectic style, which can be exciting and unique! For homes with minimal or no architectural detailing, this leans toward modern, allowing you the freedom to create a personalized look.

If the moldings, trims and interior architectural features seem as though they were all installed when the home was first built you might have a heritage home on your hands. Although many heritage homes are “traditional” in nature, these days heritage can include modernist homes, especially in the US. An example of a classical heritage style in America would be Federal style, while a modern heritage style might be American Prairie style, by Frank Lloyd Wright.

This room is modern-eclectic in nature, featuring a mix between traditional features and, like the timber paneled pitched roof, chandelier and dresser, and modern ones, like skylights, open plan features and a low profile bed.

Step 3: Examine Architectural Detailing

Now compare the interior’s style with the exterior. This will help you make decisions for your design:

Are the styles cohesive? If so, consider working with this unity, choosing a fully modern or traditional design.
Are they different? Going eclectic may suit your space, giving you flexibility to blend styles.
No significant style? If your home lacks notable architectural elements, this is a blank canvas, ideal for a modern or any style you envision.

Architectural elements like paneling, mantels, and fireplace surrounds often go unnoticed by beginners but play a significant role in defining a room’s character. Paneling work, whether wainscoting, beadboard, or intricate molding, adds texture and depth to walls, creating a sense of elegance or warmth depending on the style.

Mantels and fireplace surrounds are similarly impactful; these focal points not only highlight the fireplace but also establish a room’s ambiance, from the ornate carvings in traditional styles to the clean, minimalist lines in modern homes. Paying attention to these details can reveal and enhance a space’s underlying design language.

Don’t stress about perfect alignment here—just trust your gut. If elements feel similar, go with that; if they clash, embrace the eclectic. This is more about discovering what resonates than following exact science.

This bathroom features an intensely colored tile wall, marking a strong visual boundary on the left side of the room, and accentuating the architectural features of the space. The color also works well in complement with the woodwork on the right. The result is a grounded space with its own visual personality.

Step 4: Evaluate Wall and Floor Colors

Now that you’ve checked out your building, let’s have a look at your interior walls. Naturally, the colors on your walls, floors, and ceilings carry a lot of weight in defining your space’s vibe.

Walk all the way around your house and if you’re up to it, grab your phone and photograph all the corners, at the ceiling and at the floor and wall juncture
Photograph your door frames, your mantels, your window frames, your fireplace surround, your baseboards, your moldings and your ceiling fittings
If you have stairs don’t forget to check the style of the banister and balusters, etc.

The more thorough you are, the better sense you will have of what you’re working with. Even better, it gives you clues as to what type of style is best suited for expressing the individuality of your home.

Do you have traditional architecture paired with darker tones? This often contributes to a deeply traditional vibe.
Do you have a traditional home with lighter colors? You might be heading toward a neoclassical or ‘new traditional’ feel.
Is your home modern with darker hues? This leans eclectic or formal.

A good rule of thumb to be aware of is that the lighter the hue, the more “modern” it tends to appear. For this reason, walls are left sometimes treated plain white in minimalist or industrial styles for an ultra-modern look. When it comes to your existing fabrics and wallpaper, consider the current patterns and motif styles—they can be solid style indicators.

Google Lens can be a handy tool here if you’re unsure of the elements.

Neutrals are favored by many for the serene vibe they bring to a space. In modern interiors a warmer neutral can make the space feel more organic and natural.

What will the dominant colors in your interior space tell you about your style? Well, colors don’t always offer definitive stylistic information, but they will offer some useful clues.

If your home is traditional and then you also have a lot of heavy, dark and saturated colors, then it is likely going to feel even more traditional. On the other hand, if there are lighter colors present and more reflective qualities, then you have something more ‘neoclassical’ or ‘new traditional’.

If your home is modern, but you have darker tones, it will seem more global and perhaps more formal. For example, the Art Deco period was an early modern era that enjoyed hues with heavy chroma.

As mentioned earlier, the lighter the wall treatment, the more modern it appears; if you want a cleaner aesthetic without too much contrast consider all white or color drenching with a light hue.

Another modern interior is brought to life with vibrant color in complementary saturated and muted hues. The amber colored vase and saffron armchairs give the perfect cheerful accent to the space’s serene color scheme.

Step 5: Look at Your Furniture

Now, let’s check out your furniture:

Can you identify your pieces? Are they modern, transitional, eclectic, or traditional?
Uniform style throughout? If not, eclectic might be the label you’re looking for.

In general, the more intricate the detailing, the more traditional it feels. Modern furniture emphasizes simplicity and functionality.

Keep in mind, if your home is over 100 years old, anything original you consider discarding is likely an antique—and potentially valuable. If you’re certain it doesn’t fit your style, try finding it a good home; you might even earn a bit in the process!

Also, remember that if your home is listed as historically or architecturally significant, you may need approval from local building authorities before making alterations. Just something to be aware of as you plan your updates.

Considering Your Layout Plan

The concept of an “open plan” layout is much more modern than traditional. For contrast, think of Victorian-era homes, with their tiny, compartmentalized rooms, each filled to the brim with curiosities, collections, and everyday items. These grand homes often featured dumbwaiters, split levels, secret attics, and walk-in wardrobes that could make anyone feel like they’d stumbled into an endless winter.

On the flip side, modern design favors openness, allowing the eye to roam freely and promoting a sense of ease and flexibility. Modern thinking also encourages a decluttered space, so if you need to part with some items to achieve more visual and mental freedom, it’s a worthwhile trade-off.

With that in mind, let’s look at your layout.

General rule of thumb: Smaller rooms, or homes with many rooms, will naturally feel more cluttered.

If you want a modern look, focus on editing your space thoughtfully. To create a sense of openness, prioritize a uniform, light color scheme, reflective surfaces, and strategic lighting to enhance spaciousness.
Natural light is always king, no matter your style.

For Modern Styles:

When aiming to visually expand a small space, whites are ideal. But if you prefer warmer tones, light sandy shades or blush hues can work beautifully.
Grays are less trendy than they were in the early 2000s, but if you like cool tones, a light gray can still be effective for a contemporary vibe.
Hidden storage and built-in furniture are your best friends for maximizing space.

For Traditional Styles:

Traditional layouts often embrace defined spaces rather than open concepts, which can create a cozy, intimate feel. If you prefer this, lean into it by using rich colors, deeper wood tones, or patterned wallpapers to add character and warmth to each room.
For smaller rooms, consider using mirrors or well-placed lighting to prevent them from feeling too enclosed, while keeping your colors cohesive to maintain harmony.
Large, classic furnishings, like a well-upholstered sofa or a vintage cabinet, can anchor each space and add an authentic, timeless touch. Don’t shy away from detailed moldings or trim—these features lend a sense of craftsmanship and elegance to a traditional home.
Lastly, use quality textiles, like heavy drapes or embroidered rugs, which work well in traditional settings and add layers of texture without overwhelming the space. Traditional styles benefit from a curated feel, so choose pieces that connect with your home’s character and let them shine.

Pattern and color unite to bring this space to life. The dynamic graphic patterns are modern, while the cabinetry appears traditional. This bold design scheme is energizing and stimulating. The red of the kitchen faucet and the sleek countertops add to the modern vibe.

Step 6: Assess Patterns

Patterns in upholstery, furniture, or decor offer strong style clues. Geometric designs, for example, lean modern, while florals feel more classic.

For traditional decor, sticking to specific historical patterns can create a more defined look. For eclectic, blending different eras and influences can achieve a vibrant, layered feel.

To assess your upholstery, take a close look at the patterns and motifs used in the fabric. Certain upholstery designs are versatile and can work across multiple styles, while others have a distinct vibe that leans strongly modern or traditional. For example, floral patterns often convey a classic or old-world feel, while geometric designs bring a modern touch; bold graphic patterns, in particular, read as more contemporary.

Think about how these patterns make your space feel. Do they feel more traditional or modern? If you’re aiming for a new vibe, consider introducing elements with contrasting patterns or colors to shift the overall style.

Another example of a modern eclectic space takes traditional trellis work patterns and puts them to work in a modern setting with a contemporary expression. The result is more interesting than a pure white modern box, but still not fully eclectic.

For Traditional Styles:

If you’re sticking with a specific historical period, keep in mind that it comes with its own design rules, which will shape your choices going forward.

For Eclectic Styles:

If you’re a history enthusiast but want more flexibility, eclectic styles are a step up from purely traditional designs. They blend old and new, offering a vibrant and personalized look when done right. Styles like modern classic and Italian modern are good examples.
Embracing eclecticism means you’re venturing into transitional styles, which allow for mixing and matching elements more freely. Eclectic design also lets you explore biophilic, ethnic, fusion, or lifestyle-inspired looks.

For Modern Styles:

To keep things minimal, consider painting all architectural elements and walls (like door jambs) in a single color. White is the classic choice for a streamlined modern look, though other uniform colors can also create a clean, cohesive effect.

This pure modern space features modern furniture, fittings and cabinetry with a colorful expression. The obvious choice for decorative objects are also pure modern. The overall mood of this space is sleek with a touch of glamor.

Step 7: Observe Your Decor

Next, take a look at your decor. This includes your lighting, mirrors, and any framed photographs or artwork. Notice if these pieces are highly ornamental with curves and intricate detailing, or if they’re more solid and streamlined.

Generally, more ornate details indicate a traditional style, while simpler, clean-lined decor leans modern. While certain modern styles, like Art Nouveau and Art Deco, do incorporate more elaborate elements, these are exceptions rather than the rule.

If your decor includes a mix of various styles, you’re likely embracing an eclectic look—hello, personality! Decor elements like lighting, mirrors, and framed photos also reveal style tendencies. Highly ornate pieces are typically traditional, while clean and simple decor feels modern.

If you’re seeing a mix, your home may embrace an eclectic style!

Would you put classic art in an all modern space? Many museums do, and the result is impactful. Adding contemporary art to a traditional space is another way to liven up the arrangement and do something unexpected. The composition, colors and vibe of the artwork matter more than whether it matches the design era perfectly. Art can be like the rug that ties the room together. Don’t be afraid to do the unexpected!

Step 8: Consider Your Art

Finally, let’s talk art:

Classical or traditional art leans traditional, while modern, abstract pieces scream contemporary.

Take a hard look at what’s on your walls. Do they work together or feel like a mixed collection? If you’re just starting, no rush—curating art is a journey!

Here’s some useful pointers:

Traditional and classical art contrasts sharply with modern, abstract, or contemporary pieces. The difference is easy to spot!
Take a good look at what’s on your walls. Does your collection have a cohesive feel, or is it more of a mix?
And if you don’t have any art yet, that’s great—it gives you something to look forward to as you create your own collection over time.

My advice? Start by exploring what you genuinely like, and build your collection slowly. There’s no need to rush; let it evolve as your tastes grow.

Are you pretty eclectic so far, more modern or more traditional? These are all pieces of the puzzle. Once you get all your data together, you should be able to arrive at a good conclusion.

How would you describe this room’s interior style? The architecture, color palette and most of the furnishings are modern, but there is a classic accent thrown into the mix in the form of the transitional neoclassical chair and sideboard. The result is a modern room with eclectic elements.

Wrapping Up

Now that you’ve examined these major areas, you’ve got a solid understanding of your home’s style profile.

For Traditional Types: If you love traditional elements, consider embracing them fully or lightening up for a transitional feel. Going totally modern is an option, too.

For Eclectic Types: With a mix of styles, you can either celebrate that diversity or bring in some harmony by emphasizing certain design themes.

For Modern Types: If your space leans modern, you can enhance it with minimalism or add more interest with patterned textiles or statement furniture.

Remember, finding your style is often about finding ways to piece together many disparate elements. By focusing on the dominant features of your home’s existing interior and exterior features you can choose whether to complement and enhance them or play off them. I hope this guide gets you closer to discovering your home’s true character.

Still unsure? I’d be happy to help with a style problem-solving session using your photos as examples. Feel free to reach out—I’d love to hear about your journey!

Happy style hunting!

–Vonsassy