How to Communicate Your Interior Design Style (So You Actually Love the End Result)
One of the trickiest parts of working with an interior designer is knowing exactly how to explain what you like. You know what catches your eye on Instagram, but when you try to put it into words, you’re stuck saying things like “I just want it to feel cozy… but modern… but not too modern.” Or even the dreaded “I know what I like when I see it.”
The truth? Getting clear on your style and how to communicate it is one of the most important steps in creating a home you’ll love for years. Here’s how to do it—without second-guessing yourself every time you see a new Pinterest trend.
Identify Your Design Vision
Before you start hunting for throw pillows or picking paint colors, you need a big-picture vision for your space.
This vision is like your North Star. It keeps you focused and helps you avoid impulse buys that don’t really work together.
Ask yourself:
- How do I want to feel in this room? (Calm? Energized? Inspired?)
- What’s the main purpose of the space? (Hosting? Relaxing? Working?)
- Which colors, materials, and textures do I keep coming back to?
When you’re clear on these answers, every design decision becomes easier—because you can hold it up against your vision and see if it fits.
Visual Tools To Communicate Your Design Style
Words can only do so much especially when “modern,” “boho,” and “transitional” mean something different to everyone. That’s where visuals are so helpful when we communicate.
My favorite style-identifying tools:
- Pinterest Boards – Start pinning anything you’re drawn to, even if it’s from different styles. Over time, patterns will emerge that your interior designer can identify to get to the core essence of your style.
- Mood Boards – If you enjoy the creative freedom of creating mood boards, you can use free online tools to combine your favorite colors, textures, and furniture pieces into a single visual reference. This makes it crystal clear what you like (and don’t like).
- My Style Quiz – If you’re still unsure, my free style quiz helps you put a name to your look and gives you examples of how it can come to life in your home.
MoreThan "I Like It"
When you’re working with a designer (or even shopping solo), specific feedback is gold. Instead of saying “I like this,” explain why you like it. Is it the shape of the sofa? The tone of the wood? The softness of the fabric?
The more you can point to exact details, the easier it is to narrow down the right choices for you all while avoiding anything that doesn’t fit your vision.
Keeping It Cohesive
It’s so easy to fall in love with everything. But the easiest mistake to make is trying to combine the different styles in a haphazard way.
Your Pinterest board might have mid-century sofas, farmhouse kitchens, and glam chandeliers all together—and while they’re all beautiful, they might not play nicely in the same space.
Your design vision isn’t about creating limitations. It’s about editing so your home feels intentional, layered, and authentically you.
Bottom line: The clearer you are about your style and your vision, the easier it is to create a home you’ll love living in—not just looking at.
If you’re ready to nail your style, take my style quiz and start building your vision today. Your future self (and your future sofa) will thank you.