Interior Design Glossary
Interior Design Terms
A clear, concise guide to essential interior design terms. Whether you’re a homeowner, decorator, or design enthusiast, this glossary helps you understand the language of interiors—from architectural features to styling details—so you can design with confidence and clarity.
- Accent ChairA decorative chair that adds visual interest and extra seating to a room. Read More
- Ambient LightingGeneral lighting that creates overall illumination in a space. Read More
- ArmoireA tall, freestanding cabinet for storing clothes or linens. Read More
- BanquetteA built-in bench, often used in dining nooks. Read More
- Boho DecorA free-spirited interior style that mixes patterns, textures, and global influences. Read More
- Built-insCustom cabinetry or shelving units integrated into the wall. Read More
- ChinoiserieA decorative style influenced by Chinese motifs and imagery. Read More
- Coffered CeilingA ceiling with sunken panels that adds architectural detail. Read More
- Console TableA narrow table often placed in entryways or behind sofas for styling and storage. Read More
- DaybedA versatile piece of furniture that functions as both a bed and a seating area. Read More
- DraperyFabric window treatments that provide privacy, light control, and softness to a space. Read More
- Drop ZoneA designated area near the entry for keys, bags, and daily essentials. Read More
- E-DesignVirtual interior design services offered online, often through mood boards and floor plans. Read More
- Eclectic StyleA mix of various design styles, periods, and influences. Read More
- EntrywayThe transitional space between outdoors and the interior of the home. Read More
- Floating ShelvesWall-mounted shelves without visible brackets. Read More
- Flush MountA light fixture that sits flush against the ceiling. Read More
- Focal PointThe primary visual feature in a room, such as a fireplace, large window, or statement wall. Read More
- Gallery WallA curated collection of framed art, prints, or photos arranged on a wall. Read More
- GinghamA classic, checked fabric pattern often used in cottage or farmhouse styles. Read More
- GroutThe material used to fill gaps between tiles. Read More
- Hardwired LightingFixtures that are directly connected to your home's electrical system (vs. plug-in). Read More
- HerringboneA distinctive V-shaped pattern often used in tile, wood, or textiles. Read More
- HyggeA Scandinavian concept centered around cozy comfort and contentment. Read More
- Industrial StyleA raw, utilitarian aesthetic with materials like exposed brick, metal, and concrete. Read More
- InlayA decorative technique where contrasting materials are set into a surface. Read More
- JapandiA hybrid of Japanese minimalism and Scandinavian functionality—calm, clean, and natural. Read More
- JoineryThe craft or method of connecting pieces of wood. Read More
- JuteA natural fiber used in rugs and textiles with a coarse, earthy texture. Read More
- Kick PlateA protective panel at the base of cabinetry. Read More
- KilimA flatwoven rug style known for its geometric patterns and bold colours, originating from the Middle East. Read More
- IslandA freestanding counter space typically found in kitchens. Read More
- KnollingThe practice of arranging related objects in parallel or 90-degree angles for visual clarity. Read More
- LatticeA decorative criss-cross pattern often used in woodwork or trellises. Read More
- LayeringThe technique of combining textiles, finishes, and lighting to create depth and comfort in a space. Read More
- Louvered DoorsDoors with angled slats that allow ventilation. Read More
- MillworkCustom wood details like baseboards, crown moulding, and paneling. Read More
- MonochromaticA design scheme that uses different tones of a single colour. Read More
- Mood BoardA visual layout that gathers colour palettes, textures, and inspiration for a design project. Read More
- Neutral PaletteA calming mix of whites, creams, greys, and taupes often used as a base in modern interiors. Read More
- Newel PostThe central supporting post of a staircase. Read More
- NicheA recessed space in a wall for display or storage. Read More
- Open ConceptA layout without walls separating the kitchen, dining, and living spaces. Read More
- Organic ModernA design style that blends clean lines with natural materials and earthy tones. Read More
- OttomansVersatile upholstered pieces used as footrests, coffee tables, or storage. Read More
- PanelingDecorative wood treatments on walls, including beadboard and wainscoting. Read More
- Pendant LightA ceiling-mounted light fixture that hangs down, often used above islands or dining tables. Read More
- PlinthA base or pedestal that supports a piece of furniture. Read More
- Quarter RoundA type of trim or moulding with a rounded edge, often used at the base of walls. Read More
- QuartzA popular countertop material known for its durability and low maintenance. Read More
- Queen AnneA furniture style featuring curved lines and ornate details, popular in traditional interiors. Read More
- RattanA natural vine-like material used in woven furniture and accents. Read More
- Recessed LightingLighting fixtures installed above the ceiling line for a clean look. Read More
- Runner RugA long, narrow rug often used in hallways, kitchens, or beside beds. Read More
- SconceA light fixture mounted on a wall. Read More
- ShiplapWood paneling with horizontal grooves, popular in farmhouse and coastal interiors. Read More
- Skirted FurnitureUpholstered pieces with a fabric panel extending to the floor. Read More
- Task LightingLighting designed to illuminate specific areas for function—like reading or cooking. Read More
- TextureThe visual or tactile surface quality of materials like fabrics, rugs, and woods. Read More
- Transitional StyleA blend of traditional and contemporary elements for timeless appeal. Read More
- UnderlaymentA layer beneath flooring that improves comfort and durability. Read More
- UpcyclingRepurposing or reworking old items into something new and stylish. Read More
- UpholsteryThe fabric and padding applied to furniture like sofas, chairs, and headboards. Read More
- ValanceA short curtain that covers the top of a window. Read More
- VignetteA small styled moment using decorative items—on a nightstand, shelf, or coffee table. Read More
- VintageItems that are at least 20 years old and add character to interiors. Read More
- WainscotingDecorative wall paneling, typically on the lower third of a wall. Read More
- Wall SconceA light fixture mounted directly to the wall, often used for bedside or hallway lighting. Read More
- Warm MinimalismA pared-down style that uses texture and soft tones to create inviting spaces. Read More
- X-Base TableA table with a cross-leg base, often used for farmhouse or industrial looks. Read More
- XeriscapeA landscaping term, but used in interiors to describe drought-tolerant indoor plant styling. Read More
- Yellow UndertoneA warm base tone found in paints and fabrics that influences how colours appear. Read More
- Yoke Back ChairA traditional-style chair with a distinctive curved backrest inspired by antique furniture. Read More
- Zellige TileHandcrafted Moroccan clay tiles known for their irregular texture and reflective surface. Read More
- ZoningThe act of creating distinct functional areas within an open-plan space, like dining and lounging zones. Read More