5 words every decor lover needs to know

Five words every decor lover needs to know – Will they be enough? Fret not. I might have added in a few extras towards the end 🙂 Before we jump right into the world of decor jargon, let us take a moment to pause and think. How many times have we considered hiring an interior designer to set up a simple entryway console arrangement? A few times, I’m assuming.  

How many times have we pondered about our abilities to jazz up a gallery wall in the living room? Now, this could mostly result in an affirmative. We might have even thought of involving painters, mural artists, Venetian plaster pros and let’s not forget the humble interior designer. What is it about home decor that gets our heart racing the wrong way? Is it ruining white walls and dipping deep into our pockets? Or could it be something simpler… say designer and decor jargon that goes above our heads? I think it is the latter. 

We often hear designers and architects freely use words that sound like French and Latin (some of them are) that do not resonate with us. And that is no longer an issue because I have compiled a short list of words that can help you have a two-way conversation with your designer. Read ahead to find out!

Contemporary

I must confess, this is a somewhat overused word. While most people associate it with “modern”, it would be wrong to assume that it is the only meaning. Contemporary refers to the “now” and everything occurring in the present. It is fresh, modern, new, innovative, and all good things woven into the present time and scene. 

When people talk about the contemporary art that adorns their walls, they mean that the piece of art is of the present times, globally inspired, advanced to the time of today and culturally diverse.

Eclectic

These days, ‘eclectic’ is a term used to define styles or designs derived from different and diverse sources; a sort of mish-mash that provides a pleasant experience to the outside eye. Generally used to express a style of architecture, ‘eclectic’ is a word that is extensively used in the realm of interior design as well. 

Conversational

‘Conversational’ is a word that doesn’t just restrict itself to an extroverted personality but also lends itself well to describe elements of decor. To be conversational, the design, form, or the very idea of the piece must be unique. And it’s uniqueness must only be the beginning. A ‘conversational’ element must be ridiculously vibrant, too pricey, controversial in its image, breathtakingly beautiful or anything that gets a crowd talking. 

Whimsical 

This type of decor could refer to playful, yet dainty elements and objects that bring an innocent smile to one’s face. Whimsical decor can also tie in with the fantasy-inspired decor and is often unconventional. 

Curated

This one’s a personal favourite. The word ‘curated’ means that the object in question has been carefully selected, put together or organized, and well presented with professional knowledge. And all products from the Ancient Madurai studio are curated with loads of love!

Here are a few bonus words from our previous article ”5 Words Every Antique Lover Needs To Know” to help you along. 

Alcove: An alcove can be used to define a recess in a wall that has an arched shape. It can be flanked or supported by pillars and other architectural elements for aesthetic appeal. 

Ogee: Ogee is a pattern that resembles a double-S curve that mirrors itself. This pattern is often continuous, creating beautiful cells and is often seen on carpets, wallpapers and rugs. 

Burlap: Burlap is a term used to define a coarsely woven canvas of jute, hemp or other fibrous materials. It is also referred to as Hessian. The most common example would be jute bags that were used a few years ago to carry and store grains. 

Now that you know a bit about design jargon, it is time to turn tables on your interior designer! But more importantly, have fun turning your house into a home. Surround yourself with things you love, and cherish the experience that follows. I’m confident that no amount of jargon can substitute that.