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Erikka Fogleman

With so many different interior design styles available today, do you find yourself getting overwhelmed and unsure of how to choose a style or pull off a style well in your own home? It becomes even more complicated when you want to mix different interior design styles but are unsure of how to do that so it looks fabulous and well pulled together, instead of flat out chaotic.  

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With so many different interior design styles available today, do you find yourself getting overwhelmed and unsure of how to choose a style or pull off a style well in your own home? It becomes even more complicated when you want to mix different interior design styles but are unsure of how to do that so it looks fabulous and well pulled together, instead of flat out chaotic.  

To that end, this course has been created to help you understand the defining characteristics of 18 different popular interior design styles today so that you can either create one of those styles in your own home, or learn how to easily and effectively mix different styles on your own.  

Please note that this course only covers the characteristics of various interior design styles.  It does NOT provide information on how to pull together a room (e.g., furniture layouts, rug sizes, etc.).  That information can be found in my course "How to Design a Room in 10 Easy Steps"

That said, this course will go fairly deeply into 18 different and distinct interior design styles in areas that include:

  • Defining furniture characteristics

  • Common materials used in each style

  • Appropriate color schemes and patterns for each style

  • Window and floor covering options for each style

  • Lighting, artwork and accessories appropriate to each style

  • U.S. and international retailers that carry furnishings for each particular style

We will also spend an entire section focused solely on how to mix styles well using a simple, formulaic approach.  You will learn how to do this both through a lecture approach as well as listening to 2 real life case studies. 

You will also have an opportunity to practice your style IQ skills multiple times throughout the course so that you walk away feeling more confident about being able to more easily identify different interior design styles.

Finally, before each style section, you will have an opportunity to take a style quiz to help you find out which interior design styles are best suited to you based on your preferences.  Once you find out your results, this may help you to determine which lectures you would like to watch or how to prioritize watching them.

For bonus material, I have included a lecture with my favorite plant species for each of the 18 different styles.

This course is a great choice for:

  • Anyone wanting to learn more about different interior design styles

  • How to mix them successfully on their own

  • Interior design students who are new to their field

  • Interior designer professionals who want to brush up their skills

Join me for a exciting journey into the world of interior design styles.

  I would start with "How to Design a Room in 10 Easy Steps" because most of my other courses are in-depth classes of the concepts touched on in this 10 step class.  Following the 10 Step Course, I suggest moving on to "How to Use Color Like a Pro", followed by "How to Work with Interior Design Styles Like a Pro", then "How to Use Lighting Design to Transform your Home", and finally "Design is in the Details". 

  • My other five courses, "How to Use Minimalist Interior Design to Live your Best Life",  "Use Eco-friendly, Sustainable Design to Improve Your Life", "How to Design Your Dream Kitchen", "How to Design Your Dream Bathroom", and "Everything Small Home Design" are all stand alone classes on specialty topics within interior design, and therefore, can be taken in any order.

  • Please be aware that this course, or any of my courses, is not intended to provide all of the knowledge needed to become a professional interior designer.  As with any professional field, there is a significant amount of education and/or experience that is needed to achieve competency in this field.  My intention with these courses is to provide some solid foundational knowledge to assist either those individuals interested in "DIY" interior design to work on their own projects more effectively, or to provide supplemental education to both interior design students and professionals.

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    What's inside

    Learning objectives

    • Understand 18 of the main interior design styles used in today’s homes in great detail.
    • Articulate the defining furniture characteristics of each main style
    • Select the common materials used in each of the main styles
    • Select appropriate color schemes used for each of the main styles
    • Select the commonly used patterns for each of the main styles
    • Select appropriate window coverings and flooring used for each of the main styles
    • Discover your interior design style personality
    • Learn how to mix different styles with confidence!

    Syllabus

    Understand what will be covered in this course, including the learning objectives
    Introduction: How to Work with Interior Design Styles Like a Pro
    Read more

    This lecture will give you a detailed overview of what will be covered in this course.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    In this short lecture, you will learn how you can easily infuse any style into a room using 3 key elements.

    Describe the defining characteristics of four different formal interior design styles, and be able to design a room in that style.
    Introduction to Section 2

    Take a fun quiz to find out which formal interior design style is right for you!

    If you're a traditionalist at heart, be sure to check out this lecture on the Traditional style.  You will learn everything you need to know to create a classic, timeless home.

    If you love the English countryside, furniture from different eras, and a maximalist, eclectic vibe, you will love the English Country style.  In this lecture, I'll show you how to create a great English Country space.

    For those of you who want an effortless elegant look in your homes, consider the Modern French Style.  In this lecture, you will learn all of the elements that you will need to recreate a gorgeous Modern French style in your own home.

    If you love the idea of an old-world European feel in your home, definitely consider incorporating the Mediterranean style, and I'll show you what you'll need to do this within this lecture.

    Describe the defining characteristics of seven different casual interior design styles, and be able to design a room in that style.
    Introduction to Section 3

    Take a fun quiz to find out which casual interior design style is best for you!

    If living by the beach, or feeling like you live by the beach, appeals to you, then come check out the Coastal Chic style.  Learn everything you need to know to pull off the fun style in your own home.

    If you crave simplicity, and a bright, tidy home, you will love the Scandinavian style. This lecture will teach you all the fundamental design principles that you'll need to know to create a Scandinavian style room or home.

    If you dream of living in Provence, France, let me teach you how to bring the French countryside to you!  Come on a style adventure to learn how to pull off the the ever popular French Country style in  your own home.

    If you long to spend your days in Tuscany, the Tuscan interior design style will help to make your heart sing. Come join me in this lecture as I teach you how to create the beautiful Tuscan style in your own home by learning what elements make up this popular casual style.

    The Bohemian style is not for the faint of heart!  If you crave a wild, adventurous home, check out the Bohemian style.  Because there is a lot to cover with regards to this fun-loving style, this lecture has been divided into 2 segments.  Be sure to watch both segments to learn everything you need to know about this very eclectic style!

    The Bohemian style is not for the faint of heart!  If you crave a wild, adventurous home, check out the Bohemian style.  Because there is a lot to cover with regards to this fun-loving style, this lecture has been divided into 2 segments.  Be sure to watch both segments to learn everything you need to know about this very eclectic style!

    If you love rustic charm and all things Americana, you will love the Farmhouse style.  Come learn about this very popular style and all of the elements that make this style so timeless.

    If you love the wild west, cowboys and horses, then definitely check out this lecture on Western interior design, and learn what you need to do to create the perfect Western room or home.

    Describe the defining characteristics of three different 21st century interior design styles, and be able to design a room in that style.
    Introduction to Section 4
    Activity 3 - 21st Century Interior Design Style Quiz

    If you crave a minimalist look in your home, you will likely love the Contemporary interior design style. Come check it out and learn what you need to do to create the ideal Contemporary space.

    Do you consider yourself to be a classic, but still hip, kind of person?  Then I think you will love the transitional style!  Come find out why this style is so timeless and how to replicate it in your own home.

    For all you cool kids out there, come check out the urban modern interior design style.  It's all the rage right now and for good reason - this is a great updated style that combines the best elements from many of the other popular styles today!

    Describe the defining characteristics of four different interior design styles, and be able to design a room in that style.
    Introduction to Section 5
    Activity 4 - Retro Inspired Interior Design Style Quiz

    This lecture is for those who love the style made uber-popular by Mad Men, the Mid-Century Modern Style!  Come find out how to replicate this look in your own home.

    If you love raw and rough surfaces, and delight in the materials that make up our homes, you will love the Industrial style.  Come learn how to create the perfect Industrial vibe in your own home.

    If you want to create a glamorous, sophisticated home with a nod to the past, look no further than the Art Deco style.  I will walk you through what it will take to pull of this style well.

    If you crave a calm, restful home, you should definitely consider the simple, but beautiful Zen style.  Come learn what elements you'll need to create this style in your own home.

    Students will be able to easily mix different interior design styles using a simple formulaic approach
    Introduction to Section 6

    If you love the idea of mixing styles in your own home, then come learn about "Design Cousins" and "Design Partners", which makes mixing styles a breeze!  In this lecture, we cover "Design Cousins", the easier of the two pairings.  

    If you love the idea of mixing styles in your own home, then come learn about "Design Cousins" and "Design Partners", which makes mixing styles a breeze!  In this lecture, we cover "Design Partners", and I'll show you how to mix these not so obvious partners using my own 3-step approach.

    Meet Alexandria and Eric!  In this insightful lecture, you will hear from two of my past clients and their current style mixing challenges.  You should learn a lot just by listening to their unique situations.

    Putting Interior Design Style Mixing Theory into Action!
    Even More Examples of Style Mixing in Action
    Helpful Bonus Materials
    Name that Style!
    Complete the Room Design
    Best Plants for Every Design Style
    Conclusion

    Test your knowledge on everything you learned in this course.  This quiz has been designed to help you show the commonalities between styles so you can more easily remember all of the important elements that make up each style.

    Final Conclusion: Thank You for Learning About Interior Design Styles!
    Bonus Lecture - Do You Love Interior Design?

    Good to know

    Know what's good
    , what to watch for
    , and possible dealbreakers
    An excellent choice for design professionals wanting to brush up on their skills and expand their style knowledge
    Learners with interior design experience may find the material too basic, as it provides an overview of styles
    Helps students gain a solid foundational knowledge of various interior design styles
    Course is not intended to provide all of the knowledge needed to become a professional interior designer
    Provides a formulaic approach to mixing styles, making it accessible for those without prior design experience
    Covers a wide range of 18 different interior design styles, providing a comprehensive overview

    Save this course

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    Reviews summary

    Informative interior design course

    According to students, this informative course is helpful for professional designers. Learners say that the materials are well presented.
    Well presented content.
    "This course was really amazing and very helpful..."

    Activities

    Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in How to Work with Interior Design Styles Like a Pro with these activities:
    Join an Interior Design Study Group
    Participating in a study group will provide opportunities to ask questions, share ideas and insights, and gain feedback from other learners.
    Show steps
    • Find a study group or create your own with classmates.
    • Meet regularly to discuss the course material.
    • Work together on projects and assignments.
    Attend an Interior Design Workshop
    Attending a workshop provides an immersive and hands-on experience that can complement the theoretical knowledge gained from the course.
    Show steps
    • Search for interior design workshops in your area.
    • Choose a workshop that focuses on a topic that interests you.
    • Attend the workshop and participate actively.
    Volunteer at an Interior Design Firm
    Volunteering at an interior design firm will provide you with practical experience and allow you to network with professionals in the field.
    Show steps
    • Find an interior design firm that is looking for volunteers.
    • Contact the firm and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
    • Attend volunteer training and orientation.
    Two other activities
    Expand to see all activities and additional details
    Show all five activities
    Design a Room in Your Chosen Style
    Designing a room will help you apply the knowledge you gained from the course and improve your understanding of the different interior design styles.
    Show steps
    • Choose a room in your home to redesign.
    • Select a design style that you want to use for the room.
    • Create a mood board or Pinterest board for the room.
    • Purchase the furniture, accessories, and other items you need to decorate the room.
    • Decorate the room and enjoy your new space!
    Mentor a New Interior Design Student
    Mentoring a new student will reinforce your understanding of the course material and help you develop your leadership and communication skills.
    Show steps
    • Find a new interior design student who is looking for a mentor.
    • Meet with your mentee regularly to provide guidance and support.
    • Share your knowledge and experience with your mentee.

    Career center

    Learners who complete How to Work with Interior Design Styles Like a Pro will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
    Interior Decorator
    As an Interior Decorator, you will coordinate the appearance of interior environments. You will select furniture, fixtures, and accessories for clients, and oversee the installation of these items. You may also prepare design plans and drawings, and advise clients on color schemes and space planning. This course will help you build a strong foundation in interior design styles, giving you a competitive advantage. Learn about 18 popular styles, with sections covering defining furniture characteristics, common materials, appropriate color schemes and patterns, and appropriate window coverings and flooring.
    Interior designer
    As an Interior Designer, you will assist clients in designing and decorating their homes and offices. With a foundational understanding of various interior design styles, you can guide clients, help them define their style, and make smart choices for their particular tastes. This course will help you to do just that. Learn about 18 popular interior design styles, including the defining furniture characteristics, common materials, appropriate color schemes and patterns, and appropriate window coverings and flooring.
    Construction Manager
    As a Construction Manager, you will oversee the construction of buildings and other structures. You will be responsible for managing the project team, budget, and timeline, and for ensuring that the project is completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. This course may be useful, as it can help you to be prepared for any style of interior design that your clients desire. Learn about 18 popular styles, including defining furniture characteristics, common materials, and appropriate color schemes and patterns.
    Architectural Drafter
    As an Architectural Drafter, you will prepare detailed drawings and plans used in the construction and renovation of buildings. You will use computer-aided drafting (CAD) software to create these drawings, which will show the dimensions, materials, and other specifications of the building or renovation. This course may be useful, as it can help you understand the need to be stylistically harmonious and cohesive with interior design. Learn about 18 popular interior design styles, including defining furniture characteristics, common materials, and appropriate color schemes and patterns.
    Lighting Designer
    As a Lighting Designer, you will design and install lighting systems for homes, offices, and other spaces. You will work with clients to determine their needs and preferences, and will create lighting plans that meet their specific requirements. This course may be useful, as it can help you to design lighting plans that complement a variety of interior design styles. Learn about 18 popular styles, including appropriate lighting options.
    Textile Designer
    As a Textile Designer, you will create designs for fabrics and other textiles. You will work with clients to determine their needs and preferences, and will create designs that meet their specific requirements. This course may be useful, as it can help you to create textile designs that complement a variety of interior design styles. Learn about 18 popular styles, including common patterns and appropriate fabrics.
    Visual Merchandiser
    As a Visual Merchandiser, you will create displays of products and other items in retail stores. You will work with buyers and other staff to determine the best way to display products and to make them appealing to customers. This course may be useful, as it can help you to understand current trends in interior design styles. Learn about 18 popular styles, including color schemes, patterns, and types of accessories.
    Furniture Designer
    As a Furniture Designer, you will design and create furniture for homes, offices, and other spaces. You will work with clients to determine their needs and preferences, and will create custom furniture pieces that meet their specific requirements. This course may be useful, as it can help you to create furniture pieces in a huge variety of styles. Learn about 18 popular styles, including defining furniture characteristics, common materials, and appropriate color schemes and patterns.
    Trend Forecaster
    As a Trend Forecaster, you will analyze consumer behavior and trends to predict future trends. You will use your knowledge to help businesses make decisions about new products and services. This course may be useful, as it can help you to understand the evolution of interior design styles. Learn about 18 popular styles, and how they have changed over time.
    Space Planner
    As a Space Planner, you will design the layout of interior spaces, taking into account the needs of the people who will use the space. You will create floor plans, furniture layouts, and other drawings to help clients visualize their space and make informed decisions about how to use it. This course may be useful, as it can help you to incorporate different interior design styles into your plans. Learn about 18 popular styles, including defining furniture characteristics, common materials, and appropriate color schemes and patterns.
    Home Stager
    As a Home Stager, you will prepare homes for sale by arranging furniture and accessories to make them more appealing to potential buyers. You will declutter, clean, and paint homes, and may also make minor repairs. This course may be useful, as it can help you to stage homes in the styles most popular in your area. Learn about 18 popular styles, including defining furniture characteristics, common materials, and appropriate color schemes and patterns.
    Interior Merchandiser
    As an Interior Merchandiser, you will create displays of merchandise in retail stores. You will work with buyers and other staff to determine the best way to display merchandise and to make it appealing to customers. This course may be useful, as it can help you understand current trends in interior design styles. Learn about 18 popular interior design styles, including color schemes, patterns, and types of accessories.
    Project Manager
    As a Project Manager, you will plan, organize, and execute projects of all sizes and complexities. You will be responsible for managing the project team, budget, and timeline, and for ensuring that the project is completed on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. This course may be useful, as it can help you to make smart design decisions for your team. Learn about 18 popular interior design styles, including appropriate color schemes, patterns, window coverings, and flooring.
    Design Blogger
    As a Design Blogger, you will write about interior design for a blog or website. You will share your knowledge and expertise with readers, and will help them to create beautiful and stylish homes. This course may be useful, as it can help you to build your knowledge of interior design styles. Learn about 18 popular styles, their components, and how to mix them for a dynamic look.
    Real Estate Agent
    As a Real Estate Agent, you will help clients buy, sell, or rent homes and other properties. You will provide clients with information about the real estate market and help them to find properties that meet their needs. You will also negotiate contracts and help clients to close on their properties. This course may be useful, as it can help you to understand the latest trends and tastes in interior design. Knowing which styles are most popular will help you to spot a home with the greatest potential for your clients.

    Reading list

    We've selected ten books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in How to Work with Interior Design Styles Like a Pro.
    Comprehensive reference guide to interior design, with over 1,000 pages of information on everything from furniture to lighting to fabrics. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about the history and theory of interior design.
    Comprehensive guide to interior design, covering everything from the basics of color theory to the latest trends in furniture and décor. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about interior design, whether they are a professional or a homeowner.
    Guide to feng shui for interior design, covering everything from the basics of feng shui to how to use it to create a more harmonious and balanced home or office.
    Practical guide to interior design, with step-by-step instructions for creating beautiful and functional spaces. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn how to design their own home.
    Guide to the legal aspects of interior design, covering everything from contracts to copyright to insurance. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to protect their business and their clients.
    Guide to sustainable interior design, covering everything from green materials to energy-efficient lighting to healthy indoor air quality. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to create a more sustainable home or office.
    Practical guide to the business of interior design, covering everything from marketing to pricing to customer service. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to start or grow their own interior design business.
    Beginner's guide to interior design, covering the basics of color theory, furniture selection, and space planning. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn how to create a beautiful and functional home.
    Beginner's guide to interior design, covering the basics of color theory, furniture selection, and space planning. It great resource for anyone who wants to learn how to create a beautiful and functional home.

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