Have you ever wondered why some interiors are instantly recognisable—sometimes almost unmistakably so—while others unfold in a subtle, layered way, only truly revealing themselves upon a second glance? The difference often lies in whether the designer chooses a literal or an abstract approach.
Both approaches are presented below. Although these are clearly distinct and opposing categories, remember that an interior cannot be classified as belonging solely to one or the other; rather, certain details may belong to one category and others to the other. Your personal preferences will determine how you mix them and how you want to achieve the look and feel you desire.
What is literal interior design?
A literal interior follows the principle of ‘what you see in the picture is what you find in the space.’ This is when a source of inspiration – be it a style, mood or concept – appears directly and literally in the home, without any interpretation or refinement.
A practical example
Imagine a living room with a seaside atmosphere. The literal approach not only makes use of the blue-white colour palette and natural materials, but also incorporates distinct coastal props: a fishing net on the wall, an anchor in the corner, a lifebuoy as decoration, and shells displayed on the shelves. The theme is immediately recognisable – perhaps even overwhelmingly so.
Features of a literal space:
- Thematic, straightforward message
- Immediate recognisability
- Specific symbols and decorative elements
- Often has a set-like effect
When literalism works
There are situations when this direct approach is perfectly fitting. In a child’s room, a pirate theme, a fairytale castle, or an astronaut’s room is all about creating a tangible world for a child’s imagination. Here, literalism is not a weakness, but a deliberate choice.
“Truth in Materials” – The Positivity of Literalism
However, there is also a nobler, architectural interpretation of literalism, which stems from the legacy of modernism: honesty in materials. This means concrete remains concrete – raw, textured, and proudly industrial. The grain of the wood is visible, and the metal shines with a metallic gleam. There is no camouflage, no imitation. This type of literalness generates authenticity rather than kitsch. Industrial and minimalist spaces often build on this principle: materials bring with them their own inherent beauty and texture, which then become the main decorative features of the space.
Abstract (conceptual) interior design
The abstract approach does not copy; it interprets. It does not express a mood or style with specific objects, but rather its essence – through forms, colours, textures and atmosphere.
The jungle example, reinterpreted
Let’s revisit the same inspiration, but this time in an abstract manner. Rather than adorning the space with jungle-print wallpaper and a parrot ornament, let’s shape the atmosphere instead:
- A deep green wall colour that evokes the lushness of foliage
- Living exotic plants – philodendrons and other monsteras – bringing organic forms into the space
- Natural materials: rattan, bamboo, hemp
- Layered textures that echo the wildness and complexity of the jungle
The message here is not immediately decipherable. It doesn’t shout; it whispers. The visitor feels the tropical atmosphere without, even for a moment, sensing they are on a set.
Characteristics of the abstract space:
- An eclectic, layered approach
- Subtle, hidden messages
- Transferring moods and forms
- Personal interpretation
Why does it work?
Abstract interior design is more timeless, as it is not based on passing trends but on fundamental principles. It does not date quickly, as it does not rely on specific props that can, over time, seem outdated or kitschy. Instead, it creates an atmospheric world that can remain personal and unique.
Which should you choose?
There is no right or wrong answer – only a considered decision. A literal approach can work wonderfully in children’s rooms, themed hospitality spaces, or whenever you want to create a particularly strong, distinctive atmosphere. The abstract path is the right choice if you imagine a refined, personal, and timeless space that reveals itself layer by layer.
Perhaps the very best interiors are born where the two approaches meet: the honesty of materials unites with conceptual thinking, resulting in a space that is both authentic and poetic.
And which side are you on? Do you prefer direct, unambiguous spaces, or do you lean towards subtly evocative, layered atmospheres?
