Design Defined

Designers and historians talk about the luxurious and opulent style experiencing a resurgence in the postmodern era. Known for bold geometric shapes and strong colors, Art Deco ruled the day in the 1920s and 1930s.

Designers and historians discuss the style inspired by the rugged landscapes of America's mountainous regions, and known for rugged structures that invite the outdoors in with wood and stone materials, rustic furnishings and a neutral color palette.

Designers and historians share the essence, origins and hallmarks of this beloved coastal style that's Informed by its New England setting and ancestry, while incorporating nautical colors and themes.

Designers and historians take on the style made popular by the French nobility that let non-aristocrats live like royals, French provincial offers historical elegance through the use of antique furniture, refined textiles and ornate details.

Designers and historians discuss regionally-influenced and minimalistic Scandinavian design, which has become increasingly popular in recent decades thanks to retail furniture brands like Ikea, who've brought it to a wider audience.

Designers and historians talk about farmhouse design, which was developed out of necessity by America's first settlers and modernized by popular home renovation culture. It's characterized by practicality, simplicity and rustic charm.

Southwestern design is known for its use of earthy color palettes and rustic accents. Designers and historians share the essence, origins and hallmarks of this rustic style inspired by Spanish architecture, Native American textiles and ranching lifestyle.

Experts talk about the origins and hallmarks of this style known for whimsical patterns and bright colors, which was inspired by countryside manors of the British nobility, and popularized in the mid-20th century by American designer Nancy Lancaster.

Designers and historians discuss the style known for warm minimalism and craftsmanship while conveying the character of its namesake region. Made fashionable in America during the golden age of Hollywood, Mediterranean design is now embraced worldwide.

Known for its clean lines, gentle curves, organic shapes and retro vibes, midcentury modern design transformed interior design in America. Designers and historians share the essence, origins and hallmarks of this historic style.

Designers and historians talk about the essence, origins and hallmarks of the raw, recently resurgent and iconic style known for incorporating elements of historic industrial buildings, such as brick, concrete and metal, into living spaces.

Experts talk about Southern design, known for its historic character, comfort and charm. It's a unique expression of the cultures that comprised the American South throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, as well as European and Afro-Caribbean influences.

Find out why you love what you love. From midcentury modern to farmhouse, art deco and more -- learn the language, the secrets and the how-tos behind some of the most iconic design styles.