A blend of modern design, graphics and color, the Bauhaus interior design style was a design movement popular in the early 1900s. Representing movement, typography and wonder, the German design movement is all about combining unique designs and texture. So what exactly are the key characteristics of this design? Different from a brutalist interior or modern or hygge design, the Bauhaus style follows a specific flow. It’s functional and follows the less is more standard of living.

This design style incorporates lots of shapes and colors into the design. The architecture seems to focus more on geometric shapes like circles, squares and triangles. As for colors, you’ll typically see more primary colors such as red, yellow and blue.

To understand the Bauhaus interior design style, you must understand the origin behind how it became popular. The functional design movement lasted from 1917-1933 and started as a way to showcase artistic elements in an increasingly mass-produced world. This design style was incredibly important for this time period because it sought to rebuild society after World War I. Eventually, this German design style spread worldwide becoming popular across Europe, Canada, the U.S. and other places, inspiring generations of artists to come.

Learn all about the Bauhaus art deco style and how to incorporate it in your home.

The Bauhaus Style Design

Because the Bauhaus style consists of primary colors and different shapes, you’ll want to incorporate those designs throughout your space. Try using paint colors to tell a story with this aesthetic. Use shades of red, yellow and blue in a color block design. Decor in these shades can also stand out in this aesthetic. If you’re looking for a fun way to use the Bauhaus interior design style, try decorating your space with colorful couches, chairs, rugs, tables and shelving.

Make art your focal point in this design style. Giant canvases with primary colors work great with this aesthetic, or framed artwork or paintings with geometric shapes add pops of color and texture to the space.

Unique Elements of Bauhaus Design

What exactly makes Bauhaus unique? Besides being incredibly different from other interior design styles, Bauhaus is fun and playful. It lets you explore your inner child through colors and shapes. It’s also easy to incorporate Bauhaus-style furniture into minimalist or maximalist spaces for a timeless or fun look.

Although the Bauhaus movement only lasted several years, this design style still lives on. Many people incorporate Bauhaus pieces into their homes for vintage, timeless and colorful looks. We’ve also seen a resurgence of this style through social media platforms like TikTok, Instagram and Pinterest. Many new Gen-Z apartment renters and homeowners are opting for this style using colorful furniture, peel-and-stick wallpaper, decor items and artwork.