Which one are you?
Photo by shche_ team on Unsplash
The world of interior design, like many aspects of our lives, has been dramatically influenced by the different styles from Europe and America. With their distinct aesthetics, these two cultures have long influenced each other in interior design, with elements from both sides finding their way into modern homes across the globe.
European interiors have a rich design history that draws inspiration from the centuries-old architecture of countries across the continent. Rustic Tuscan villas, luxurious French chateaux, and grand English manors all influence today’s european interiors and aesthetics. Because of these influences, British design tends to take on a more traditional style focused on classical elegance.
American interior style often has European influences but also has its roots in the colonial period, where furniture was handmade from natural materials like oak and walnut woods with a simple but stylish aesthetic. As a result, the American interior style tends to focus more on functionality and efficiency with a more minimalistic and practical approach.
Primary differences between American and european interiors
While European and American interior design styles share many influences and similarities, a few distinct differences set them apart. Here are a few design elements to note when deciding which side of the pond your interiors gravitate towards.
Different floor plans
Regarding British versus American interior design, the floor plans of homes in Europe and the US have distinct differences that reflect their respective cultural preferences. Americans traditionally prefer an open layout, which promotes flow between one area to another and allows for more space in the home. This typically involves having larger common living spaces such as a living room, kitchen, and dining room all on the same level.
In contrast, European homes are traditionally built with smaller and more distinct areas of the home separated by walls. This allows for more privacy between rooms, as well as providing additional storage space within each room.
No matter which style you prefer – European or American – you must consider how you want to use your home to determine what floor plan best suits your lifestyle needs. For example, an open plan may be better for those who prefer lots of interaction between family members or enjoy entertaining guests. Alternatively, those who value privacy and intimacy within each room may prefer a plan with separate rooms.
Matching vs. Coordinating
British interiors are all about creating a matchy-matchy feel. This means that fabrics and prints are used repeatedly throughout a room to create an exact match of color, pattern, and style. Floral prints such as this Schweiger Industries Classic Floral Sofa, as well as bold chintz patterns and toile de jouy, are trendy in British homes as they add a touch of classic English charm to any space.
Americans usually prefer a more subtle approach to their interior style. Instead of matching their fabrics and prints exactly, Americans opt for coordinating colors and patterns instead. This allows them to express their design aesthetic without looking too busy or overwhelming the senses. Additionally, by selecting two or three colors throughout their home and carrying those same tones through different pieces, you can create a unified look that still offers plenty of visual interest.
Eclectic Color vs. Bold Color
British interior design is defined by its eclectic, informal style. Rather than relying on one or two statement pieces for bold accents of color, Europeans prefer to incorporate a range of bright colors and patterns into a space. This creates a relaxed, homey atmosphere which allows for versatility and experimentation when it comes to styling.
American houses tend to stick to one or two statement pieces to make a bold impact without detracting from the room’s overall aesthetics. These statement pieces provide pops of vibrant color and personality to an otherwise neutral space and can be anything from bright chairs like this Frank Lloyd Write Cassina chair to pillows and patterned rugs or curtains and bold window treatments.
Comfy and collected vs. Minimalist
European interiors are well known for their emphasis on comfort and warmth. These spaces are typically furnished with pieces that encourage a relaxed and inviting atmosphere, with functionality and true coziness taking precedence over mere appearance. Heavy, solid wood furniture, plush fabrics, and abundant soft furnishings such as throw pillows and blankets are mainstays in these interiors.
American interiors tend to prioritize a minimalistic, modern, and aesthetically driven approach. Most American designers focus on creating a visually uncluttered space, where the emphasis is often placed on clean lines and geometric shapes over plushness and functionality. This can be observed in furniture pieces that commonly feature sleek materials like metal and glass, adding lightness and openness to a room.
Lavish luxury vs. traditional and sentimental
Americans tend to embrace lavishness and luxury in their interior style, incorporating elements of opulence into their living spaces. As a result, many American homes feature opulent pieces with exaggerated details, such as oversized furniture, elegant lighting fixtures, and bold artwork.
Europeans, however, tend to prefer sentimental pieces in their interior design. Traditional designs are often favored over the sleek modern look of many American homes. Classic antiques or rustic pieces can be found throughout European interiors. Europeans embrace subtlety and modesty regarding décor and strive for a timeless feel rather than something overly trendy or flashy.
Similarities between American and European styles
Recently, the line between American and European design styles has begun to blur as the two distinct cultures have been merging together. The exchange of ideas is becoming increasingly common, and we see many aspects of each culture influencing the other. For example, interior design has a growing trend toward spirituality, wellness, mindfulness, and sustainability in European and American homes.
Rise in spiritual wellness
The rise of spirituality, wellness, and mindfulness in interior design reflects a global movement toward self-care, which has grown exponentially over the past decade. As a result, American and European interior designers have begun to focus more on calming, reflective spaces that nurture the soul instead of just being aesthetically pleasing.
This increased emphasis on spiritual and mindful living is reflected in various ways within interior design. For example, incorporating greenery within the home to promote wellness is a popular trend, as is the addition of natural materials like wood, bamboo, and jute.
Personality and comfort have also become priorities in the home as platforms like Pinterest and Instagram allow people to explore unique trends that cater to their styles. People want a space that feels theirs uniquely so that they can feel the most comfortable and at home. The addition of nostalgic and vintage pieces brings character into the room that can’t be found anywhere else.
Sustainability
The modern world has witnessed a significant shift towards sustainability in many sectors, including interior design. This progressive trend, initially led by European visionaries, has also gradually entered into American interiors.
With growing awareness about the impacts of climate change and the urgent need to preserve resources and reduce carbon footprints, sustainable interior design initiatives are thriving in Europe and the United States. From upcycling old furniture to purchasing from eco-conscious brands, you can find stylish sustainability on both sides of the pond.
One of the most apparent ways sustainability has found its place in interior design is by using eco-friendly materials. Eco-friendly materials are made from natural, renewable sources such as bamboo, reclaimed wood, recycled glass, cork, and hemp or jute items. These materials offer an array of benefits to both homeowners and the environment at large. They are durable, biodegradable, and many, like reclaimed wood, help against deforestation and wasting valuable resources.
Upcycling and buying secondhand furniture are excellent strategies for reducing your carbon footprint while creating beautiful, unique interiors. Upcycling is the process of taking an old or used item and transforming it into something new and valuable. It’s all about being resourceful with what you already have. For example, you might give an old dresser a fresh paint job, add some new hardware, or embellish it with added detailing.
Buying secondhand can create sustainable interiors, which is an excellent way to save money and reduce your environmental impact. By purchasing secondhand furniture, you reduce the energy and resources used to create new pieces and help stop the millions of tons of furniture thrown away in landfills each year.
How to decide which style you gravitate toward
When deciding which interior design style you gravitate towards most, there’s no right or wrong answer – it depends on your tastes. However, if you find yourself attracted to both styles, you can create a harmonious blend of both American and European interior design styles by combining classic furnishings with pops of bright colors or bold patterns.
If you’re going for a more modern and sleek look, American design aesthetics may be more your style. On the other hand, if you prefer your home to feel traditional and cozy, European design styles may be more your cup of tea. Consider how each style makes you feel when looking at photos online or visiting model homes for inspiration; if one speaks louder than the other, you’ll likely know which one feels like home for you.
Kaiyo can help, no matter the style you choose
At Kaiyo, there is something for everyone, no matter your style. Whether you like the classic European style or the mid-century modern American design, Kaiyo has a wide selection of secondhand pieces that fit both styles and many more, up to 90% off retail prices.
Americans and Europeans can agree on at least one thing: sustainability! In addition to being affordable, Kaiyo has saved over 4 million pieces of furniture from being thrown into landfills. Shopping at Kaiyo means having access to beautiful furniture while also doing good for the environment, so visit Kaiyo today to enjoy stylish sustainability at a fantastic price.
