Interior design plays a crucial role in shaping the atmosphere and functionality of homes, and in Melbourne, it’s no different. With such a diverse range of design styles available, homeowners can easily find something that reflects their personal taste and lifestyle. From sleek and modern to cosy and rustic, these styles transform kitchens, bathrooms, and lounges into spaces that feel truly unique. Whether you’re renovating an apartment or a house, exploring the top 30 most popular interior designs in Australia will inspire you to create a home that feels both stylish and comfortable.
- Scandinavian
- Mid-century Modern
- Bohemian
- Minimalist
- Art Deco
- Industrial
- Coastal
- Contemporary
- Traditional
- Eclectic
- French Country
- Hollywood Regency
- Hamptons
- Shabby Chic
- Rustic
- Modern Farmhouse
- Vintage
- Japandi
- Mediterranean
- Maximalist
- Retro
- Transitional
- Bauhaus
- Zen
- Glam
- Urban Modern
- Southwestern
- Cottagecore
- Parisian
- Tropical
Scandinavian
The Scandinavian style is one of the most favoured designs in Australian homes, especially in Melbourne. It’s all about clean lines, functionality, and minimal clutter. You’ll find a lot of neutral colours, like whites and greys, and natural materials like timber, often used in kitchen cabinetry and lounge room furniture. This design is perfect for those who want their home to feel fresh and light, making it an excellent option for apartments and houses alike.
Mid-century Modern
Mid-century modern interiors bring back the retro vibes of the 1950s and 60s. Sleek furniture with curved edges, wood elements, and bold colours define this design. It’s perfect for those who want to give their Melbourne home a timeless yet trendy look. From the kitchen to the bathroom, you can introduce iconic pieces that mix nostalgia with contemporary flair.
Bohemian
Bohemian design is for the free spirits who love colours, patterns, and textures. This eclectic style is all about mixing and matching, making it popular in homes that reflect a vibrant personality. You’ll see rugs, plants, woven baskets, and a lot of cushions in the lounge area. Perfect for both houses and apartments in Melbourne, Bohemian design adds a relaxed, lived-in vibe to your home.
Minimalist
Minimalism is all about “less is more.” This design strips back the unnecessary and focuses on simplicity. Neutral tones, open spaces, and clean lines dominate this style. It’s a great choice for kitchens and bathrooms, where functionality is key. Minimalist interiors are becoming more common in Melbourne’s urban homes, giving a sense of calm and order to any living space.
Art Deco
The glamour of the Art Deco style never truly fades. Characterised by bold geometric patterns, luxurious materials like marble, and metallic finishes, this design brings a touch of class to Melbourne homes. Whether it’s a stunning bathroom with intricate tiling or a living room decked out with mirrors and glass, Art Deco always delivers drama and opulence.
Industrial
Industrial design takes inspiration from warehouses and factories. Exposed brick, metal fixtures, and raw wood are staples in this style. It’s a great option for lofts and modern apartments, adding a rugged, unfinished look to your home. Melbourne’s urban setting lends itself well to the industrial aesthetic, particularly in lounge areas and open-plan kitchens.
Coastal
Coastal style design brings the beach into your home. Think light blues, sandy tones, and natural textures like wicker and driftwood. This relaxed style works well in both houses and apartments, especially in Melbourne’s seaside suburbs. Kitchens and bathrooms are often styled with light, airy colours to enhance the breezy, oceanic vibe of the coastal aesthetic.
Contemporary
Contemporary design is ever-evolving, but it’s generally sleek and uncluttered. Expect to see a lot of metal, glass, and neutral tones. In Melbourne, contemporary homes often feature open spaces and large windows that let natural light flow through. It’s a versatile design that works in both small apartments and large houses. Contemporary kitchens are often characterised by stainless steel appliances and minimalist cabinetry.
Traditional
Traditional design is all about comfort and familiarity. This style focuses on classic furniture, warm tones, and symmetrical layouts. It’s a go-to for homeowners who prefer a timeless, elegant feel in their space. Melbourne homes often integrate traditional design elements in lounge rooms and bedrooms, offering a sense of warmth and nostalgia.
Eclectic
Eclectic style is for the bold. It mixes different periods, styles, and colours, creating a truly personalised space. Melbourne homes with eclectic interiors are unique and often tell a story. This design is not afraid to combine a vintage armchair with a modern coffee table, making every room a reflection of the homeowner’s personality. Kitchens, bathrooms, and lounges alike can benefit from this playful mix.
French Country
The French Country style exudes rustic elegance. Think soft whites, light blues, and distressed wood. This romantic design is perfect for Melbourne homes that want to evoke the feel of the countryside. In the kitchen, you might see rustic cabinetry and vintage crockery, while the lounge is filled with soft furnishings and ornate detailing.
Hollywood Regency
If you love a touch of glamour, Hollywood Regency is the style for you. Inspired by the golden age of Hollywood, this design features bold colours, mirrored furniture, and luxurious fabrics like velvet. It’s all about drama and decadence, making your Melbourne home feel like a star’s retreat.
Hamptons
Inspired by the coastal homes of the Hamptons, this design is all about relaxed luxury. Crisp white walls, navy accents, and natural textures like linen and rattan define the Hamptons style. It is a popular choice in Melbourne, especially for homes near the coast. Kitchens in this style often feature marble countertops and shaker-style cabinetry, while the lounge is kept light and airy.
Shabby Chic
Shabby Chic design embraces imperfections, making it feel lived-in and charming. It’s all about distressed furniture, pastel colours, and vintage finds. This design is perfect for those who want their home to feel cosy and unpretentious. In Melbourne homes, this style works well in bedrooms and lounge rooms, giving them a relaxed, cottage-like feel.
Rustic
Rustic design brings the outdoors in, with natural materials like wood, stone, and leather. It’s a style that feels warm and inviting, perfect for family homes in Melbourne. Rustic kitchens often feature wooden beams, while bathrooms might have stone floors and earthy colours. This design is ideal for those who want to create a homey, back-to-nature atmosphere.
Modern Farmhouse
The modern farmhouse style is a blend of contemporary and rustic elements. You’ll see sleek lines mixed with raw materials, giving your Melbourne home both character and modern appeal. White walls, wooden floors, and black metal accents are common features. The kitchen is often the heart of a modern farmhouse, with a large island and open shelving.
Vintage
Vintage design brings a sense of nostalgia to your home. It’s about incorporating old-school furniture and decor into a modern setting. In Melbourne, this style is popular for its charm and personality. You can introduce vintage elements in the lounge with retro sofas or in the bathroom with an antique vanity. It’s all about adding a touch of the past to your present-day home.
Japandi
Japandi is a fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian design. It combines the minimalism of Scandinavian interiors with the warmth of Japanese aesthetics. This style works well in Melbourne homes, especially for those who love simplicity and functionality. You’ll see clean lines, natural materials, and a muted colour palette, making Japandi a great choice for kitchens and bathrooms alike.
Mediterranean
Mediterranean design brings the warmth of the coast to your home. Expect to see terracotta tiles, wrought iron details, and earthy tones. This style is perfect for homes in Melbourne looking to add a bit of European flair. Kitchens often feature rustic wood cabinetry, while outdoor spaces are designed to feel like a sunny retreat.
Maximalist
For those who believe more is more, Maximalism is the way to go. This design is all about layering colours, textures, and patterns to create a vibrant and dynamic space. Melbourne homes with a maximalist interior are bold and unique. From the kitchen to the lounge, every room is filled with personality, making the home a reflection of the homeowner’s eclectic taste.
Retro
Retro design brings back the bold colours and funky patterns of the 60s and 70s. It’s all about nostalgia and fun, making it a great option for those who want to add a bit of character to their Melbourne home. Kitchens with retro appliances and lounges with bright furniture are perfect ways to introduce this playful style.
Transitional
Transitional design is a mix of traditional and contemporary styles. It’s all about finding a balance between comfort and sophistication. In Melbourne homes, you might see a transitional lounge with modern furniture mixed with classic decor, or a bathroom that combines sleek fixtures with traditional tiling. This style offers flexibility and timeless appeal.
Bauhaus
Bauhaus design focuses on functionality and simplicity. It’s a minimalistic style that values clean lines and efficient use of space. Melbourne homes with a Bauhaus interior often have an industrial feel, with metal finishes and simple, practical furniture. It’s a great choice for those who value design that’s both beautiful and functional.
Zen
Zen design is all about creating a calm, peaceful environment. Inspired by Japanese interiors, this style focuses on natural materials, soft colours, and minimal decor. It’s perfect for Melbourne homeowners looking to create a serene space, particularly in bedrooms and bathrooms where relaxation is key. Zen interiors often feature elements like bamboo, stone, and water to bring a sense of balance and tranquillity.
Glam
Glam design is all about luxury. Think velvet, metallic finishes, and plush furniture. This opulent style brings a sense of drama to Melbourne homes, particularly in lounge rooms and master bedrooms. Glam interiors often feature chandeliers, mirrored surfaces, and bold colours like emerald green or royal blue, adding a touch of extravagance to everyday living.
Urban Modern
Urban Modern design combines industrial elements with sleek modern touches. It’s perfect for Melbourne apartments and lofts, offering a stylish yet comfortable space. You’ll see exposed brick walls, metal fixtures, and contemporary furniture that blends seamlessly with the city’s vibe. Kitchens often feature stainless steel appliances, while lounges have minimalist furniture with a focus on functionality.
Southwestern
The Southwestern design style brings earthy tones and natural materials into your home. Inspired by the American Southwest, this style uses colours like terracotta, turquoise, and beige, along with patterns inspired by Native American culture. In Melbourne, this style is perfect for those who want to add a touch of the exotic to their home, especially in living areas and outdoor spaces.
Cottagecore
Cottagecore is all about nostalgia and charm, evoking the feel of a rural, countryside home. Soft florals, vintage furniture, and natural materials define this style. Melbourne homes that embrace cottagecore often feel cosy and inviting, with a focus on comfort. It’s a great style for lounge rooms and bedrooms, offering a retreat from the hustle and bustle of modern life.
Parisian
The Parisian style is all about effortless elegance. Think high ceilings, ornate mouldings, and chic furniture. This style brings a touch of European sophistication to Melbourne homes, particularly in more traditional spaces like lounges and dining rooms. A Parisian-inspired kitchen might feature marble countertops and sleek cabinetry, while the lounge could have a vintage chandelier and plush armchairs.
Tropical
Tropical design brings the outdoors inside with vibrant colours, bold patterns, and natural materials. Melbourne homes that embrace this style often feel like a holiday retreat. You’ll see a lot of greenery, rattan furniture, and bright, airy spaces. It’s a great style for outdoor areas or indoor spaces that connect to the garden, adding a fresh, lively feel to the home.
Conclusion
These 30 interior design styles are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to creating your dream home in Melbourne. Whether you’re inspired by the sleek lines of Scandinavian design or the bold patterns of Bohemian, there’s a style to suit every taste and space. From kitchens to bathrooms, these designs will help you transform your house or apartment into a space that feels truly your own.
Exploring the top 30 interior design styles in Australia offers a glimpse into the vast array of possibilities for creating a dream home. Whether you prefer the minimalist elegance of Scandinavian design or the eclectic mix of Bohemian, there’s something for every homeowner. Melbourne’s vibrant culture and lifestyle allow for creative freedom in styling kitchens, bathrooms, and living spaces. No matter your preference, adopting a style that resonates with your personality will transform your house or apartment into a place that feels both beautiful and functional.
