Interior Design Glossary, Part 2

Zellige Tile at project No. 11

Ever felt lost in a sea of design jargon? From 'zellige' to 'biophilic', the world of interior design can feel like its own language. To help clue you in as to what the heck your designer is talking about, we created this comprehensive glossary, your go-to resource for understanding the key terms that shape beautiful spaces. Whether you're a design enthusiast or embarking on a home renovation, this guide will demystify the vocabulary and empower you to communicate your vision with confidence.

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Glossary of Terms

• Art Deco

  A style from the 1920s and 30s characterized by rich colors, bold geometric patterns and lavish ornamentation.

• Bespoke

  Custom-made or tailored to a specific client’s needs.

• Biophilic Design

  An approach that incorporates natural elements and materials to enhance well-being.

• Camelback Sofa

  A sofa with a curved, arched back.

• Chandelier

  An elaborate, large(er than a pendant) ceiling fixture that typically features multiple light sources.

• Chinoiserie

  The European interpretation and imitation of Chinese and East Asian artistic traditions.

• Color Drenching

  Interior design technique that involves using a single color to cover all or most of the surfaces in a room. This includes walls, ceilings, trim + doors.

• Crewel

  A type of embroidery using wool or yarn on a woven cloth.

• Dovetail Joint

  An interlocking joint used to connect wood pieces, known for its strength.

• Eglomise

  The French term for the process of applying both a design and gilding onto the rear face of glass to produce a mirror finish.

• Japandi

  A fusion of Japanese and Scandinavian design, emphasizing minimalism and natural materials.

• Live Edge

  Wood furniture that incorporates the natural edge of the wood.

• Mid-Century Modern

  A design movement from the mid-20th century, characterized by clean lines and functional forms.

• Ottoman

  A low, upholstered seat or foot rest without back or arms.

• Parquetry

  Geometric patterns created with wood inlays, often used for flooring.

• Pendant Lighting

  A single light fixture or grouping of light fixtures that hangs from the ceiling, typically suspended by a cord, chain or rod.

• Picture Rail

  A rail fixed to a wall from which pictures are hung.

• Terazzo

  A composite material made of marble chips set in cement or resin, polished for a smooth finish.

• Transom Window

  A window above a door or another window.

• Tufting

  A technique of creating a cushioned surface with buttons or stitching.

• Venetian Plaster

  A decorative plaster finish with a polished, marble-like appearance.

• Wabi-sabi

  A Japanese aesthetic centered on the beauty of imperfection and impermanence.

• Zellige

  Hand-cut, glazed terracotta tiles from Morocco, known for their irregular, shimmering surface.