In our industry, there are many terms that sound confusing, particularly if you’re new at this! We have collected hundreds of terms and concepts into this design industry glossary. Enjoy!
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A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W Y Z 1-10 | add more
A
Accent Wall: A wall that is painted or decorated differently from the others in a room to create visual interest.
Acoustics: The study and management of sound within a space, often used in designing theaters, concert halls, and recording studios.
ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act): A law that sets standards for accessibility and design requirements in public spaces, including ramps, doorways, and restroom facilities.
Aesthetics: The visual and sensory qualities of a space or object, often used in design to create a certain look or mood.
Ambient Lighting: Soft, general lighting that provides an overall glow to a space, such as recessed or track lighting.
Amenity: A feature or service that adds value to a property, such as a pool, fitness center, or concierge service.
Analogous Colors: Colors that are adjacent to each other on the color wheel, often used in design to create a cohesive color palette.
Antiquing: A decorative technique that involves distressing furniture or other objects to make them look older or vintage.
Archway: An opening in a wall or partition that is curved at the top, often used to connect two rooms or to create a decorative focal point.
Area Rug: A carpet that is not attached to the floor and can be moved, often used to define and anchor a space.
Art Deco: A design style from the 1920s and 1930s characterized by geometric shapes, bold colors, and decorative embellishments, such as mirrored surfaces and metallic accents.
Art Nouveau: A design style from the late 19th and early 20th centuries characterized by organic shapes and flowing lines, inspired by natural forms such as flowers and plants.
B
Backsplash: A protective surface applied to the wall behind a sink or stove to prevent damage from water or heat, often made of tile or stone.
Balance: The distribution of visual weight in a space, achieved through the arrangement of furniture, lighting, and decor.
Banquette: A built-in bench that is often used for seating in a dining area, breakfast nook, or kitchen.
Baseboard: A decorative and functional trim that runs along the bottom of a wall, covering the joint between the wall and the floor.
Bathtub: A fixture used for bathing, often made of porcelain, acrylic, or other materials and available in a variety of sizes and styles.
Bauhaus: A design school founded in Germany in 1919 that emphasized simplicity, functionality, and the use of industrial materials.
Bay Window: A window that projects outward from the exterior wall of a building, often featuring a seat or storage area.
Beadboard: A type of paneling made of narrow wood planks with a beaded edge, often used for walls and ceilings in traditional or cottage-style homes.
Bedding: The linens, blankets, and pillows used to dress a bed, often chosen for comfort and aesthetic appeal.
Bench: A long, narrow seat with or without a backrest, often used for seating in a foyer, dining area, or bedroom.
Biedermeier: A design style popular in Central Europe during the early 19th century, characterized by simplicity, clean lines, and natural materials such as cherry and walnut.
Bohemian: A design style characterized by a mix of eclectic patterns, textures, and colors, often incorporating vintage or handmade pieces.
Bold: A design approach characterized by strong contrasts, bright colors, and striking patterns.
C
Cabinetry: Built-in or freestanding furniture used for storage and organization, often found in kitchens, bathrooms, and other areas of the home.
Canopy: A decorative fabric or metal covering suspended over a bed or other area, often used for privacy or to create a dramatic focal point.
Carpet: A textile floor covering made of wool, synthetic fibers, or other materials, often used to add warmth and comfort to a space.
Case Goods: Furniture made of hard materials such as wood, metal, or glass, often used for storage or display, such as bookcases, cabinets, and dressers.
Ceiling Fan: An electrical device that is suspended from the ceiling and circulates air to create a cooling effect, often used in warmer climates.
Centerpiece: A decorative object or arrangement that serves as a focal point for a table or other surface, often used for entertaining or special occasions.
Chair Rail: A decorative trim that runs along the middle of a wall, often used to protect the wall from chairs and other furniture.
Chaise Lounge: A long, upholstered chair with a backrest and armrest on one side, typically used for relaxing or reclining.
Chandelier: A decorative light fixture suspended from the ceiling, often featuring multiple arms and hanging crystals or other ornaments.
Classic: A timeless design style characterized by simple, elegant lines, neutral colors, and high-quality materials such as leather and silk.
Coastal: A design style inspired by the beach and ocean, characterized by light colors, natural materials such as wood and rattan, and nautical accents such as ropes and shells.
Color Scheme: A predetermined set of colors used in a space or design, often chosen for their complementary or contrasting effects.
Color Scheme: A set of colors chosen for a space or design, often based on a specific theme or mood.
Comfort: The degree of physical and emotional ease experienced in a space, achieved through the selection of furniture, lighting, and decor.
Comforter: A thick, quilted bed covering filled with down, feathers, or synthetic fibers, often used for warmth and comfort.
D
Daybed: A long, narrow sofa that can be used as a bed or a lounging space during the day.
Decorative Pillow: A pillow used for decorative purposes, often featuring embellishments such as embroidery, sequins, or fringe.
Decoupage: A decorative technique that involves gluing paper or other materials onto a surface and then coating it with varnish or other sealant.
Depth: The perceived distance between the foreground and background of a space, often achieved through the use of color, texture, and lighting.
Design Elements: The basic components of design, such as color, texture, pattern, and shape.
Design Principles: The fundamental concepts that guide design, such as balance, contrast, harmony, and proportion.
Design Style: A particular approach to design that is characterized by certain elements, such as color, materials, and motifs, often associated with a specific period or cultural tradition.
Dimmer Switch: A device that allows the user to adjust the level of lighting in a space, often used to create a variety of moods and effects.
Dining Table: A table used for eating meals, often made of wood, glass, or metal.
Direct Lighting: Lighting that is aimed directly at a particular area or object, often used to highlight artwork or architectural features.
Distressed: A decorative technique that involves deliberately aging or damaging a surface to create a worn or weathered appearance.
Drapery: A fabric window treatment that hangs in soft folds, often used for privacy and light control, as well as decorative purposes.
Dresser: A type of case good used for storing clothing, often featuring multiple drawers and a flat surface for display or other purposes.
E
Eclectic: A design style characterized by a mix of different styles, periods, and cultures, often incorporating unusual or unexpected elements.
Elevation: A drawing or diagram that shows the vertical features of a space, often used by architects and designers to convey design ideas and details.
Embellishment: A decorative feature or detail added to a surface or object, often used to enhance its aesthetic appeal.
Emphasis: A design technique that draws attention to a specific element or feature, such as a focal wall or piece of artwork.
Encaustic Tile: A type of ceramic tile that is decorated with colored clay or glazes, often featuring intricate patterns and designs.
Entryway: The area near the entrance of a home or building, often used for storing coats and shoes and welcoming guests.
Ergonomic: Designed for comfort and efficiency, often used to describe furniture and equipment that promote healthy posture and reduce physical strain.
Ergonomics: The study of how humans interact with their environment, often used in design to create spaces and products that are comfortable and efficient to use.
Espresso: A dark, rich brown color often used in furniture finishes and decorative accents.
Etagere: A type of shelving unit used for storage and display, often featuring multiple tiers and open shelves.
Exposed Brick: A decorative feature that involves leaving brick walls or other structural elements exposed, often used to create an industrial or rustic look.
Extension Table: A dining table that can be expanded or contracted to accommodate different numbers of people, often featuring leaves or other removable sections.
F
Faux Finish: A decorative painting technique that mimics the appearance of materials such as wood, stone, or metal, often using glazes or other mediums.
Feng Shui: An ancient Chinese practice of arranging objects and spaces in a way that promotes harmony and balance, often used in interior design to create a peaceful and harmonious environment.
Fireplace: A structure used for heating and as a decorative element, often featuring a mantel, hearth, and surround made of brick, stone, or other materials.
Flat Weave: A type of rug or carpet that is woven on a loom, often featuring a low pile and a smooth surface, suitable for high-traffic areas.
Floor Plan: A diagram or drawing that shows the layout and dimensions of a space, often used by architects and designers to plan and visualize design concepts.
Florals: A decorative motif or pattern featuring flowers, often used in fabrics, wallpaper, and other decorative elements.
Focal Point: A prominent feature or element in a space that draws attention and creates visual interest, such as a fireplace or large piece of artwork.
Footstool: A low, upholstered, or padded stool used for resting the feet or as a seat.
Formal: A design style characterized by symmetry, order, and elegance, often incorporating luxurious materials such as marble and crystal.
French Country: A design style inspired by rural France, characterized by warm colors, rustic materials such as wood and stone, and traditional patterns such as toile and florals.
Frieze: A decorative band or panel that runs along the top of a wall, often featuring sculptural or relief elements.
Full Bed: A type of bed that measures 54 inches wide by 75 inches long, often used in guest rooms or smaller bedrooms.
Functionality: The degree to which a space or object is practical and useful for its intended purpose.
Fur: A type of natural or synthetic material used for decorative purposes, often used to add texture and warmth to a space.
G
Gallery Wall: A collection of framed artwork or photographs hung together on a wall in a creative arrangement.
Game Table: A small table used for playing games such as cards or chess, often featuring a surface made of wood, leather, or other materials.
Gilding: A decorative technique that involves applying a thin layer of gold or another metallic leaf to a surface, often used to enhance the aesthetic appeal of furniture and decorative objects.
Glam: A design style characterized by luxurious materials such as velvet and gold, bold patterns, and dramatic lighting.
Glassware: A collection of glasses and stemware used for serving drinks, often made of glass or crystal.
Glaze: A transparent or semi-transparent coating applied to a surface, often used to protect and enhance the appearance of ceramics, wood, and other materials.
Gloss: A shiny or reflective surface finish, often used in paint and other coatings to create a high-end look.
Graphic: A bold and visually striking pattern or design, often used in textiles, wallpaper, and other decorative elements.
Greek Key: A decorative motif consisting of a continuous line that forms a repeated pattern resembling a key or maze, often used in classical and modern design.
Greek Revival: A design style popular in the mid-19th century, characterized by symmetrical facades, columns, and pediments inspired by ancient Greek architecture.
Green Design: A design approach that emphasizes sustainability and environmental responsibility, often incorporating recycled materials, energy-efficient technologies, and other eco-friendly features.
Grid Layout: A design layout that organizes elements on a page or screens into a series of intersecting horizontal and vertical lines, often used in graphic and web design to create a clean and organized look.
H
Hammock: A hanging bed or chair suspended by ropes or chains, often used for relaxation outdoors.
Handmade: A product that is made by hand rather than by machine, often valued for its unique character and craftsmanship.
Hardware: The knobs, handles, hinges, and other fittings that are used to attach and secure doors, cabinets, and other furniture pieces.
Hardwood: A type of wood that comes from deciduous trees, often used in flooring, furniture, and decorative accents.
Harmony: A design principle that creates a sense of unity and coherence through the use of complementary colors, textures, and patterns.
Headboard: A decorative panel or board that is attached to the head of a bed, often used to enhance the visual appeal of a bedroom.
Hearth: The area around a fireplace, often featuring a decorative surround and a place to store firewood or other objects.
Herringbone: A pattern consisting of a series of V-shaped lines that form a repeating pattern, often used in flooring, tile, and textiles.
High-Contrast: A design approach that uses strong contrasts between light and dark colors, often creating a dramatic effect.
Hollywood Regency: A design style popular in the 1930s characterized by glamour, luxury, and opulence, often incorporating mirrored surfaces, metallic accents, and bold patterns.
Home Office: A designated space within a home that is used for work or study, often featuring a desk, chair, and storage solutions.
Hue: The color or shade of a color, often used in color theory to describe the variations of a single color.
Hygge: A Danish term that describes a feeling of coziness and contentment, often incorporated into interior design to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
I
Iconic: A term used to describe a design or product that is widely recognized and often considered a classic or timeless piece.
Illumination: The act of lighting or providing light to a space, often used in interior design to create a certain mood or atmosphere.
Industrial: A design style inspired by factories and warehouses, characterized by raw, unfinished materials such as brick and metal, and utilitarian furniture and lighting.
Infinity Pool: A swimming pool that appears to blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape, often featuring a vanishing edge that creates the illusion of an endless horizon.
Inlay: A decorative technique that involves setting contrasting materials, such as wood, metal, or stone, into a surface to create a pattern or design.
Insulation: A material used to prevent the transfer of heat or sound between different spaces, often used in construction and home renovation projects.
Interior Design: The art and science of creating functional and aesthetically pleasing interior spaces.
Island: A freestanding cabinet or counter that is often located in the center of a kitchen or other living space, often used for food preparation and storage.
Italian Renaissance: A design style popular in the 15th and 16th centuries, characterized by symmetry, proportion, and classical motifs such as columns and arches.
Italianate: A style of architecture and design that originated in Italy during the 19th century, often featuring ornate details, arched windows, and classical motifs.
Ivory: A creamy white color often associated with the natural material from elephant tusks, often used in interior design to create a luxurious and elegant atmosphere.
J
Jacquard: A type of fabric that features intricate woven patterns or designs, often used for upholstery, curtains, and other decorative elements.
Jamb: The vertical sides of a window or door frame, often made of wood, metal, or vinyl.
Japanese Design: A design style that emphasizes simplicity, natural materials, and clean lines, often featuring traditional Japanese elements such as tatami mats, shoji screens, and bonsai trees.
Jardiniere: A decorative container, often made of ceramic or metal, used for holding flowers or other plants.
Jetted Tub: A type of bathtub that features built-in jets that create a swirling water massage, often used for relaxation and hydrotherapy.
Jib Door: A type of hidden door that is disguised to look like a wall panel, often used in secret rooms or other discreet spaces.
Joint Compound: A material used in drywall installation and finishing to fill gaps and seams between panels, often sanded and painted to create a seamless surface.
Juliet Balcony: A type of balcony that is enclosed by a railing or balustrade, often located on the upper floors of a building and used for decorative purposes.
Jute: A natural fiber derived from the jute plant, often used in rugs, curtains, and other textiles to add texture and durability.
Juvenile: A design style geared towards children and young people, often incorporating bright colors, playful patterns, and themed decor.
Juxtaposition: A design technique that combines contrasting elements or styles to create visual interest and tension.
K
Keyhole Escutcheon: A decorative plate or cover that surrounds a keyhole in a door or cabinet, often used to add a touch of elegance or ornamentation.
Kilim: A type of flat-woven rug or tapestry, often featuring geometric patterns or designs, originating from Turkey, Iran, or other parts of the Middle East.
King-size: A bed size that measures approximately 76 inches wide and 80 inches long, providing ample space for couples or individuals who prefer extra room while sleeping.
Kintsugi: A Japanese art form in which broken pottery is repaired with gold or silver lacquer, emphasizing the beauty of imperfection and the passage of time.
Kitchen Island: A freestanding counter or cabinet in the center of a kitchen, often used for preparing food and serving meals.
Kitchenette: A small kitchen area typically consisting of a sink, refrigerator, and cooking surface, often found in apartments and hotel rooms.
Kneehole Desk: A type of desk that features a recessed area in the center, allowing the user to sit with their legs comfortably positioned underneath.
Knickknack: A small decorative object, often used to add visual interest or personal significance to a space.
Knob: A small, rounded handle or projection, often made of metal, wood, or plastic, used for opening doors, cabinets, or drawers.
Knockdown: A type of furniture or cabinetry that is designed to be easily assembled and disassembled, often using screws, bolts, or other hardware.
Knoll: A low hill or mound often used in landscaping, also the name of a design company known for its modern furniture.
Knot: A natural defect in wood or other materials caused by the presence of a branch or other irregularity, often used in rustic or naturalistic design styles to add character and texture.
Knurling: A decorative technique that involves creating a pattern of small, raised dots or ridges on the surface of a metal object, often used in hardware, lighting, or furniture design.
Koi Pond: A shallow, decorative pool or basin filled with water and stocked with koi fish, often used in Japanese-inspired garden design.
Kokeshi: Traditional Japanese wooden dolls known for their simple, stylized design and painted details, often used as decorative objects in interior design.
Kuba Cloth: A type of textile made by the Kuba people of central Africa, characterized by intricate geometric designs and natural dyes.
L
Laminate: A synthetic material made by fusing layers of paper or fabric with resin, often used for flooring, countertops, and other surfaces due to its durability and affordability.
Lattice: A decorative framework consisting of crossed strips or bars, often used as a screen or divider in outdoor spaces or as a decorative element in furniture design.
Layering: A design technique that involves adding multiple layers of texture, color, and pattern to create depth and visual interest.
Le Corbusier: A Swiss-French architect and designer known for his modernist buildings and furniture designs.
Leaded Glass: A type of decorative glass that is made by joining together small pieces of colored glass with lead strips, often used in windows, doors, or lighting fixtures to add a touch of elegance and color.
Leatherette: A synthetic material made to resemble leather, often used in furniture or automotive upholstery due to its durability and affordability.
LED Lighting: A type of lighting that uses light-emitting diodes (LEDs) to produce energy-efficient, long-lasting illumination, often used in residential and commercial settings for its energy efficiency and flexibility in design.
Lighting: The use of light sources to illuminate a space, often used to create mood and atmosphere.
Linen: A natural textile made from the fibers of the flax plant, known for its durability and breathability, often used for bedding, curtains, and table linens.
Louis XVI Style: A French design style that emerged during the 18th century, characterized by ornate details, classic proportions, and neoclassical motifs, often used in furniture, architecture, and decorative arts.
Louver: A slatted shutter or blind that can be adjusted to control the amount of light and air that enters a room or building, often used in windows, doors, or ventilation systems.
Low-Voltage Lighting: A type of lighting that uses a transformer to convert high-voltage electricity into low-voltage electricity, often used in landscape lighting, under-cabinet lighting, or other decorative lighting applications due to its energy efficiency and ease of installation.
Luminance: The amount of light emitted or reflected by a surface, often measured in lumens per square meter, and used to determine the brightness or visual impact of a design element.
Luster: The quality of light reflection from a surface, often described as the degree of shininess or glossiness, and used to add depth and texture to design elements such as furniture, lighting fixtures, or textiles.
M
Marquetry: A decorative technique that involves applying small pieces of wood veneer or other materials in intricate patterns to a surface, often used in furniture, flooring, or cabinetry to add interest and visual texture.
Matte: A non-glossy or non-reflective finish on a surface, often used to create a more subtle and understated look in design elements such as walls, furniture, or accessories.
Metallic: A finish or material that contains metal or metal-like elements, often used in design to add a touch of shine, glamor, or industrial chic to a space or object.
Mid-Century Modern: A design style popular in the 1950s and 60s, characterized by clean lines, organic shapes, and a focus on functionality and simplicity.
Millwork: Custom-made woodwork, such as trim, molding, or cabinetry, often used to add architectural interest and detail to a space.
Minimalism: A design approach that emphasizes simplicity and the use of minimal elements to create a sense of calm and clarity.
Molding: A decorative strip of material (such as wood, plaster, or plastic) that is used to add ornamentation or definition to a surface or architectural element, such as a wall, ceiling, or doorframe.
Molding: A decorative trim used to enhance the appearance of walls, doors, and ceilings, often made from wood or plaster.
Monochromatic: A color scheme that uses different shades and tints of a single color, often creating a serene and sophisticated look.
Mood Board: A visual tool used by designers to collect and organize inspiration, ideas, and design elements for a project, often consisting of images, color swatches, and material samples.
Moroccan: A design style characterized by vibrant colors, intricate patterns, and the use of natural materials such as wool and leather, often incorporating Islamic geometric motifs.
Motif: A recurring design element or pattern, often used to add interest and visual unity to a space or object.
Murano Glass: A type of glassware that is made on the island of Murano in Venice, Italy, often prized for its intricate designs and vibrant colors, and used in lighting fixtures, vases, and decorative objects.
N
Natural Fibers: Fibers that are derived from plants or animals, such as cotton, linen, wool, or silk, often used in textiles and upholstery.
Neoclassical: A design style that emerged in the late 18th century, characterized by a revival of classical motifs such as columns, pediments, and decorative moldings.
Neutral: A color palette that includes shades of white, beige, gray, and black, often used as a backdrop to showcase other colors and textures.
New Traditional: A design style that combines traditional and modern elements to create a timeless and updated look, often featuring classic architectural details, antique furnishings, and contemporary accents.
Niche: A recessed or protruding area in a wall that is used to display or store objects, often used to add interest and architectural detail to a space.
Nightstand: A small table or cabinet that is used to hold items next to a bed, often used to store books, lamps, or personal items.
Nomadic: A design style that is inspired by the lifestyle and aesthetics of nomadic cultures, often characterized by bright colors, bold patterns, and a mix of materials and textures that reflect the natural environment.
Non-Toxic: Products or materials that do not contain harmful chemicals or substances, often used in eco-friendly or sustainable design practices to promote a healthier and safer environment.
Nordic: A design style that emphasizes simplicity, functionality, and natural materials, often associated with Scandinavian countries and characterized by light woods, clean lines, and a focus on comfort and coziness.
Novelties: Unusual or whimsical decorative objects, often used to add personality and humor to a space.
Novelty Fabric: A fabric with a unique or unusual design, pattern, or texture, often used to add interest and personality to a space or object.
Nubuck Leather: A type of leather that is buffed to create a velvety texture, often used in upholstery, shoes, or accessories to add a soft and luxurious feel.
O
Occasional Table: A small table used for holding drinks, books, or decorative objects, often placed next to a sofa or armchair.
Ogee: A decorative S-shaped curve or molding, often used in architectural details, furniture, and textiles to add visual interest.
Old World: A design style inspired by European history and culture, characterized by ornate details, rich colors, and luxurious materials such as velvet and silk.
Ombré: A color effect that blends one color into another, often used in textiles and wall treatments to create a gradient or fading effect.
Open Plan: A design concept that removes barriers and walls between different areas of a home or space, creating a more fluid and flexible layout that allows for better flow and social interaction.
Organic Modernism: A design style that combines organic and modern elements to create a harmonious and contemporary look, often featuring natural materials, minimalist forms, and a focus on sustainability.
Organic: A design style that emphasizes natural shapes, materials, and textures, often inspired by the natural world and characterized by irregular forms, flowing lines, and a focus on sustainability.
Oriental Rug: A type of rug that is hand-knotted or hand-woven in countries such as Turkey, Iran, and India, often characterized by intricate patterns, vibrant colors, and a thick pile.
Orientalism: A design style that is inspired by the aesthetics and culture of the Middle East and Asia, often characterized by rich colors, ornate patterns, and exotic motifs.
Ottoman: A low, upholstered seat or footstool, often used as a decorative accent in living rooms and bedrooms.
Outdoor Living: A design trend that emphasizes the creation of functional and comfortable outdoor spaces, often featuring outdoor furniture, lighting, and accessories that allow for cooking, dining, and relaxation.
Overhead Lighting: A type of lighting that is mounted on the ceiling, often used to provide general illumination in a space or to highlight specific areas or objects. Examples include chandeliers, pendant lights, and recessed lighting.
P
Paisley: A pattern characterized by teardrop-shaped motifs and intricate floral designs, often used for textiles such as curtains and upholstery.
Palladian: A design style inspired by the work of Andrea Palladio, characterized by classical motifs such as columns, pediments, and symmetry.
Parquet: A flooring pattern made by arranging small pieces of wood in a geometric design, often seen in historic buildings and high-end homes.
Pastel: A color palette that includes soft, muted shades of pink, blue, green, and yellow, often creating a calming and romantic atmosphere.
Pattern: A repeated design or motif used in textiles, wallpaper, and other decorative elements to add visual interest and texture.
Persian: A design style characterized by intricate floral patterns, bright colors, and the use of wool and silk, often associated with the culture of Iran.
Picnic Table: A table with attached benches used for outdoor dining and recreation, often made from wood or metal.
Plaster: A building material made from gypsum or lime, often used for walls and decorative moldings.
Platform Bed: A bed with a low, flat base and no box spring, often used in modern and minimalist interiors.
Polka Dot: A pattern characterized by small, round dots, often used for textiles and wall coverings.
Pop Art: An art movement that emerged in the 1950s and 60s, characterized by bold colors, graphic designs, and the use of popular culture imagery.
Portiere: A heavy curtain hung over a doorway, often used to create privacy and add a decorative touch.
Prairie Style: A design style popularized by architect Frank Lloyd Wright, characterized by low, horizontal lines and a connection to the natural landscape.
Prints: A type of textile design characterized by the use of repeating patterns and motifs, often used for clothing and home decor.
Proportion: The relationship between the size and scale of objects in a space, often used to create balance and harmony.
Provencal: A design style inspired by the countryside of Provence, France, characterized by soft colors, rustic materials, and floral patterns.
Punched Tin: A decorative technique in which small holes are punched into metal sheets to create intricate designs, often used for light fixtures and wall decor.
Q
Quilt: A textile made by stitching together layers of fabric, often used for bedding and wall hangings.
Quoins: Decorative blocks or stones used to emphasize the corners of buildings, often used in historic architecture.
Quoizel: A lighting company known for its high-quality fixtures, often incorporating Art Deco and Tiffany-style designs.
R
Rattan: A type of vine used to make furniture and home decor, known for its durability and natural texture.
Raw Silk: A type of silk that has not been chemically treated or dyed, often used for drapery and upholstery.
Reading Nook: A cozy space designed for reading and relaxation, often furnished with comfortable seating and good lighting.
Recycled Materials: Materials that have been repurposed or reused in a new context, often used for eco-friendly and sustainable design.
Regency: A design style popular in the early 19th century, characterized by classical motifs and opulent materials such as velvet and silk.
Renaissance: A design style inspired by the art and architecture of the Renaissance period, characterized by symmetry, balance, and classical motifs.
Retro: A design style inspired by the aesthetics of the 1950s, 60s, and 70s, often incorporating bold colors, graphic patterns, and
Rhythm: The visual flow and movement created by the repetition of elements such as color, pattern, and shape in a space.
Rococo: A design style popular in the 18th century, characterized by elaborate ornamentation, curved lines, and a light and playful aesthetic.
Roman Shades: A type of window treatment made from fabric that folds into pleats when raised, often used for a clean and simple look.
Rustic: A design style characterized by a natural and organic aesthetic, often incorporating materials such as wood, stone, and iron.
Rya: A type of woven rug with a shaggy pile, often used for a cozy and warm feel in interiors.
S
Scandinavian: A design style originating from the Nordic countries, characterized by simplicity, functionality, and natural materials such as wood and wool.
Schumacher: A textile company known for its high-quality fabrics and wall coverings, often incorporating traditional and modern designs.
Sconce: A wall-mounted light fixture, often used for ambient lighting and decorative purposes.
Seagrass: A natural fiber used to make furniture and home decor, known for its durability and eco-friendliness.
Sectional Sofa: A type of sofa composed of multiple sections that can be arranged in various configurations, often used for large living spaces.
Shabby Chic: A design style characterized by a vintage and distressed aesthetic, often incorporating floral patterns and pastel colors.
Shag Rug: A type of rug with a long and shaggy pile, often used for a cozy and retro feel in interiors.
Shibori: A Japanese dyeing technique that involves folding, twisting, and binding fabric to create unique and intricate patterns.
Shiplap: A type of wooden paneling characterized by overlapping horizontal boards, often used to create a rustic and coastal aesthetic.
Silk: A luxurious and delicate fabric made from the fibers of silkworm cocoons, often used for drapery, upholstery, and bedding.
Slipcover: A removable and washable cover for furniture, often used to protect and update existing pieces.
Spanish Colonial: A design style influenced by the architecture and design of Spain’s colonial empire, characterized by wrought iron, tile, and stucco.
Sputnik Chandelier: A type of mid-century modern light fixture characterized by a starburst design and multiple arms with lights.
Stained Glass: Glass that has been colored or painted to create intricate designs and patterns, often used for windows and lighting fixtures.
Statement Piece: A unique and eye-catching item of furniture or decor that serves as a focal point in a room.
Stripe: A pattern characterized by horizontal or vertical lines of varying thickness and color, often used for textiles and wallpaper.
Suede: A type of leather with a soft and velvety texture, often used for upholstery and accessories.
Sunburst Mirror: A type of mirror with a circular or oval frame radiating outward like the rays of the sun, often used for a glamorous and retro feel.
Swedish Gustavian: A design style originating in 18th century Sweden, characterized by light colors, simple lines, and delicate ornamentation.
Symmetry: A design principle that involves creating balance and harmony through the use of mirrored or repeated elements.
T
Table Lamp: A type of lamp designed to sit on a table or desk, often used for task lighting and decorative purposes.
Tapestry: A type of textile made by weaving together threads of different colors and textures to create a design or image.
Tartan: A plaid pattern associated with Scottish culture, often used
Terrazzo: A composite material made from chips of marble, glass, or other materials set in concrete or epoxy, often used for flooring and countertops.
Textile: A material made from fibers, often used for clothing, upholstery, and home decor.
Thonet Chair: A type of chair designed by Michael Thonet in the mid-19th century, characterized by a bentwood frame and woven cane or rush seat.
Tiffany Lamp: A type of lamp characterized by a stained glass shade with intricate designs, often used for a classic and elegant feel.
Toile: A pattern characterized by a repeating scene or landscape in a single color on a contrasting background, often used for fabrics and wallpaper.
Topiary: The art of trimming trees and shrubs into decorative shapes, often used for outdoor decor.
Traditional: A design style characterized by classic and timeless elements, often incorporating rich colors and ornate details.
Transitional: A design style that combines traditional and contemporary elements for a balanced and cohesive look.
Travertine: A type of limestone characterized by a porous and textured surface, often used for flooring and countertops.
Trellis: A framework of interlaced bars or latticework, often used for supporting climbing plants and as a decorative element.
Tribal: A design style influenced by traditional crafts and patterns of indigenous cultures, often incorporating natural materials and earthy tones.
Tufted: A technique of creating a textured surface by pulling loops of yarn or fabric through a backing material and then securing them in place.
Tulle: A lightweight and sheer fabric often used for decorative purposes such as drapery and table skirts.
Tuscan: A design style influenced by the architecture and design of Tuscany, characterized by warm colors, natural materials, and rustic details.
Tuxedo Sofa: A type of sofa characterized by a clean and rectangular shape with high arms and a low back, often used for a modern and sleek feel.
Tweed: A rough and durable fabric often made from wool and characterized by a twill weave and flecks of different colors.
Typography: The art of arranging text and typefaces in a visually appealing and communicative way.
U
Ultra Modern: A design style characterized by sleek lines, minimal ornamentation, and the use of modern materials such as glass and steel.
Upholstery: The process of covering furniture with fabric or leather, often used for chairs, sofas, and other seating.
Urban: A design style influenced by city living, characterized by industrial materials, exposed brick and pipes, and a modern and edgy feel.
Urn: A decorative vessel often used for holding flowers or as a design element in interiors.
V
Valance: A short curtain or drapery that covers the top of a window, often used for decorative purposes.
Venetian Blinds: A type of window treatment consisting of horizontal slats that can be tilted to control light and privacy.
Victorian: A design style originating in the Victorian era, characterized by ornate details, rich colors, and a romantic aesthetic.
Vignette: A small arrangement of objects or decor used to create a focal point or tell a story within a larger space.
Vintage: A design style characterized by items from a previous era or style, often incorporating antiques and retro pieces.
Vinyl Flooring: A type of flooring made from synthetic materials and characterized by durability, affordability, and easy maintenance.
Viscose: A type of rayon made from cellulose fibers, often used for textiles and upholstery.
Visual Weight: The perceived
W
Wabi-Sabi: A Japanese design philosophy centered around the acceptance of imperfection and the beauty of natural materials and aging.
Wallpaper: A decorative covering for walls, often featuring patterns or designs.
Wicker: A type of furniture made from woven plant fibers, often used for outdoor decor.
Window Treatment: Any type of covering or decoration for windows, including curtains, blinds, shades, and valances.
Wood Grain: The natural pattern and texture of wood, often used for furniture and flooring.
Wool: A natural fiber obtained from sheep, often used for textiles and rugs.
Woven: A technique of creating fabric by interlacing threads or fibers, often used for textiles and upholstery.
X
X-Base: A type of furniture base characterized by two crossed supports in the shape of an “X”.
Xeriscape: A type of landscaping characterized by the use of drought-tolerant plants and minimal water usage.
Y
Yarn: A type of fiber used for knitting, weaving, and other textile crafts.
Yellowing: The process of white or light-colored materials becoming yellow over time due to exposure to light or other factors.
Yin and Yang: A Chinese philosophy that emphasizes the balance between opposing forces, often used in design to create balance and harmony.
Z
Zen: A design style influenced by Zen Buddhism, characterized by simplicity, minimalism, and a focus on natural materials and harmony.
Zigzag: A pattern characterized by a series of diagonal lines, often used for textiles and decor.
Zipper: A device used for joining two pieces of fabric, often used for cushions, pillows, and upholstery.
1-9
10-Year Master Plan: A long-term plan for the development and management of a property or site, often used in urban planning and commercial real estate.
10-Year Rule: A guideline that suggests investing in high-quality, timeless pieces of furniture and decor that will last at least 10 years, rather than following trendy or disposable design trends.
100-Year House: A term used to describe a house that is built to last at least 100 years, using high-quality, durable materials and construction methods, and designed with longevity in mind.
100-Year Warranty: A manufacturer’s warranty that guarantees a product or material will last for at least 100 years under normal use and conditions, often used for high-quality building materials such as roofing, siding, and masonry.
100% Pure Paint: A type of paint that does not contain any volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which can contribute to indoor air pollution and health problems.
100% Recyclable: A product or material that can be broken down and reused or repurposed at the end of its useful life, rather than ending up in a landfill or incinerator.
100% Solution-Dyed Carpet: A type of carpet that is made from fibers that are dyed before they are spun into yarn, resulting in a highly durable and fade-resistant product that can be cleaned with bleach and other harsh chemicals.
24/7 Lighting: A type of lighting system that is designed to operate continuously, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, often used in commercial or public spaces such as airports, hospitals, and transportation hubs.
2D: Two-dimensional design refers to flat, two-dimensional representations of objects or spaces, such as floor plans or elevations.
360-Degree View: A virtual tour or presentation that allows viewers to explore a space or object from all angles, often used in real estate marketing and architectural visualization.
3D Rendering: The process of creating a digital representation of a space or object in three dimensions, often used for architectural visualization and design presentations.
3D: Three-dimensional design refers to the creation of realistic, three-dimensional models of objects or spaces, often using computer-aided design (CAD) software or virtual reality technology.
4K: A high-resolution display format that offers four times the number of pixels as standard high-definition (HD) displays, often used in large-format displays and video walls for immersive and high-quality visuals.
50/50 Lighting Rule: A lighting guideline that suggests using a combination of ambient (general) lighting and task lighting in a space, with each type of lighting accounting for about 50% of the overall illumination.
5S Methodology: A workplace organization and efficiency system that emphasizes five key principles: sort, set in order, shine, standardize, and sustain.
60-30-10 Rule: A color scheme guideline that suggests using 60% of one dominant color, 30% of a secondary color, and 10% of an accent color to create a cohesive and balanced color palette in a space.
7 Elements of Interior Design: The seven fundamental elements of interior design are space, form, line, texture, color, light, and pattern.
8 Principles of Design: The eight fundamental principles of design are balance, proportion, unity, variety, emphasis, rhythm, contrast, and harmony.
8-Foot Rule: A guideline that suggests leaving at least 8 feet of clearance between the highest point of a fixture or piece of furniture, such as a chandelier or bookshelf, and the floor.
80/20 Rule: A guideline that suggests spending 80% of your design budget on elements that are durable and long-lasting, such as flooring and furniture, and 20% on elements that are more temporary or changeable, such as decor and accessories.
90-Degree Rule: A construction guideline that suggests intersecting walls and other elements should meet at a 90-degree angle to ensure structural stability and ease of construction.
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