Popular Interior Decorating Styles in Brooklyn Homes

One of the most iconic home styles in Brooklyn is the brownstone, known for its historic charm and architectural details. From the elegant facades to the ornate moldings and large windows, these homes possess a timeless appeal that complements modern updates.

Brownstone Decorating Ideas:

• Rich Colors & Traditional Furniture: Brownstone interiors often feature deep, rich colors, such as emerald green, navy blue, and burgundy. These hues complement traditional furniture, such as antique chairs, vintage rugs, and carved wooden tables.
• Modern Touches for Balance: While preserving historic charm, many homeowners incorporate modern elements, such as sleek lighting fixtures, contemporary art, and minimalist decor, to achieve a balanced aesthetic. This combination enables you to preserve the brownstone's character while introducing a fresh, modern vibe.
• Feature Fireplaces: A defining feature of many brownstones is the presence of a fireplace. Restoring or highlighting the fireplace with bold colors or a modern mantle can create a cozy, stylish focal point in the living room.

Brownstone decorating offers endless opportunities to strike a balance between tradition and contemporary updates, creating a space that feels both timeless and current.

Brooklyn's industrial lofts are famous for their exposed brick walls, steel beams, and large windows. These homes, often situated in neighborhoods like Williamsburg and DUMBO, showcase the raw, unfinished aesthetic of old factories and warehouses while still offering comfortable and livable spaces.

Loft Apartment Decorating Ideas:

• Exposed Features: Exposed brick, steel beams, and high ceilings are key features of the industrial loft style. Keep these elements visible to showcase the loft's raw, industrial charm.
• Minimalistic, Functional Furniture: Since lofts often have open-concept layouts, furniture choices tend to be functional, minimal, and low-profile. Think large sectional sofas, clean-lined coffee tables, and functional storage pieces such as open shelving and metal cabinets.

Industrial lofts are perfect for those who love the idea of urban living with an edge—perfect for showcasing your creativity through minimalist, bold design choices.

Brooklyn apartments, especially smaller ones, are prime spaces for minimalist design. The modern minimalist style emphasizes clean lines, neutral tones, and functional furniture, making it an ideal choice for individuals living in compact spaces.

Modern Interior Design Ideas:

• Neutral Palettes: Modern Brooklyn apartments often feature neutral color schemes, usually consisting of whites, blacks, and grays. These colors create a calm, serene environment and make the most of natural light in smaller spaces.
• Functional Furniture: In minimalist apartments, furniture is all about function and simplicity. Look for pieces that serve multiple purposes, such as storage ottomans, convertible sofas, or wall-mounted desks. The goal is to maintain a clean, uncluttered, and stylish appearance that doesn't overwhelm the space.
• Open Floor Plans: Many modern Brooklyn apartments feature open layouts. To maintain a minimalist feel, keep the decor simple with a few standout pieces, such as a sleek light fixture or a bold accent rug, while keeping the overall space open and airy.

The modern minimalist style is ideal for anyone seeking a functional, low-maintenance home that remains stylish and current.

For those who want a home that feels as unique as Brooklyn itself, the eclectic style is the way to go. This approach combines vintage and modern elements to create a distinctive, personalized look full of character.

Eclectic Interior Decorating Ideas:

• Mixing Vintage with Modern: The Eclectic Style Embraces the Idea of Combining Old and New. Vintage furniture, such as mid-century chairs or antique dressers, can be paired with contemporary pieces, like a sleek coffee table or a modern sectional sofa. The key is to create contrast while maintaining a harmonious balance.
• Bold Colors & Patterns: This style celebrates color and texture. From textured walls to vibrant fabrics, eclectic interiors allow for the use of bold colors, layered patterns, and unique accessories. Don’t be afraid to experiment with patterns like stripes, florals, or geometric prints.
• Personalized Decor: Eclectic spaces often feature items that tell a story, such as vintage posters, travel souvenirs, or heirloom pieces. Displaying personal items adds warmth and authenticity to the space, creating a home that feels uniquely yours.



The eclectic Brooklyn mix is a great choice for creative individuals who love experimenting with different styles and want to incorporate pieces that reflect their personality.

If you’re drawn to earthy tones and natural materials, the rustic interior style might be a good fit. This style often incorporates wood, stone, and reclaimed materials to create a cozy, inviting atmosphere that feels grounded and organic.

Rustic Home Design Ideas:

• Wood Accents & Reclaimed Furniture: These pieces add warmth and texture, making the space feel welcoming and comfortable.
• Earthy Color Palettes: Rustic Brooklyn interiors often feature earthy tones, such as warm browns, greens, and soft neutrals. These colors work well in larger spaces, like townhouses or family homes, and help create a connection to nature.
• Textured Fabrics: Incorporate natural fabrics like linen, cotton, or wool in your furniture and decor. Layering these materials adds depth and warmth, making the space feel lived-in and inviting.

Rustic interiors are well-suited to homes that prioritize natural beauty, comfort, and timeless design. It’s a great option for families or those seeking a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.

The transitional style combines elements of both traditional and contemporary design. This style is ideal for homeowners who desire a balanced, elegant appearance without feeling too formal or stuffy.

Transitional Home Design Ideas:

• Blend of Traditional & Modern Elements: The goal is to create a cohesive and polished space that feels timeless yet fresh.
• Neutral Color Schemes: Transitional interiors often feature neutral color palettes, such as grays, whites, and beiges, that provide a versatile foundation for the design. Add pops of color through accessories like throw pillows, artwork, or decorative vases.
• Elegant yet Comfortable: This style is ideal for families seeking a home that feels both sophisticated and relaxed. The furnishings and decor should be refined yet comfortable enough for everyday living.

Transitional style works well in Brooklyn homes that want the elegance of traditional design with the functionality and freshness of modern updates. 

What’s the most popular interior design style in Brooklyn today?

Brooklyn is renowned for its diverse mix of styles, with the most popular trends today including modern minimalist design, industrial lofts, and eclectic interiors. Each style enables residents to express their personality while maintaining a stylish and functional space.

How do you decorate a small Brooklyn apartment?

In a small apartment, use neutral tones, multifunctional furniture, and clever storage solutions to make the space feel larger. Consider light, airy colors and pieces that can serve multiple purposes to maximize space.

Can I modernize my brownstone without losing character?

Absolutely! You can modernize your brownstone by incorporating sleek, contemporary furniture and design elements while retaining traditional features, such as ornate moldings, fireplaces, and tall windows. Balance is key.

What decorating style adds the most value to a Brooklyn home?

A well-curated blend of modern and traditional styles, like transitional or industrial, tends to add the most value. These styles appeal to a wide range of potential buyers while maintaining a timeless and appealing aesthetic.

Brooklyn's diverse range of interior decorating styles allows homeowners to express their individuality while still embracing the borough’s historic charm and urban edge. Whether you’re drawn to the classic elegance of a brownstone, the industrial cool of a loft, or the minimalist simplicity of a modern apartment, there’s a style for every taste and space.

At RH Construction USA, we specialize in transforming homes with expert interior decorating and painting services. Whether you’re updating a brownstone, refreshing your apartment, or designing a loft, our team can help you create the perfect look for your Brooklyn home.

Ready to make your design vision a reality? Contact us today for expert interior decorating and painting services in Brooklyn, NY!