Many of today’s most prolific design movements stem from Europe—which is no surprise, given the continent’s vibrant history, distinctive architecture, and diverse influences. From the inclination of Southern California enclaves to Tuscan and Mediterranean styles to our ever-growing obsession with Scandinavian minimalism, it’s clear that European movements have permeated our design sensibilities. Here, a look at some of Europe’s popular home decorating styles and for whom they’re best suited.

Baroque

After emerging in Italy in the late 16th century, the Baroque movement spread across the rest of Europe and even Latin America, flourishing throughout the 17th and 18th centuries. During this period, some of the world’s most recognizable structures associated with this style were built: St. Peter’s Square in the Vatican, designed by Gian Lorenzo Bernini; the grand Palace of Versailles, commissioned by Louis XIV; and San Carlo alle Quattro Fontane, the Roman Catholic Church built by Francesco Borromini. Characterized by ornate gilded accents and rich colors, the movement is perhaps the grandest of styles.

Perfect for: Those who appreciate tasteful opulence and a sense of history in their homes.

Scandinavian

Scandinavian minimalism surfaced from the Nordic countries of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden. Because its philosophy is rooted in the values of simplicity and functionality, less is truly more when it comes to Scandinavian design. Most notable elements are natural light and simple yet well-crafted wooden furniture, such as the iconic pieces by Arne Jacobsen, Alvar Aalto, and Poul Henningsen. These complement the sparse and streamlined interiors, along with home accents in neutral tones of white, gray, and light pastels. Function-wise, the Nordic are never in short supply of cozy throws, rugs, and blankets to ward off the winter blues.

Perfect for: Those who place a premium on comfort, cleanliness, and practicality in every aspect of their lives.

Tuscan

Frequented by Italians looking to escape the bustle of city life, the hilly countryside inspired a decorating style that is employed all over the world, most notably in Southern California and other similarly sun-kissed regions. Elements that are essential to Tuscan homes include the use of terracotta, stucco, limestone, and marble for surfaces and tiles, and well-built furniture in wrought iron and rustic worn wood finishes. The style echoes and complements the natural environment of the famed Italian region with a color palette of earthy shades like olive, brown, burgundy, and sage, punctuated by warm, punchy tones like red, tangerine, and yellow.

Perfect for: Those who revel in warmth, easy sophistication, and a laid-back lifestyle.

British

“You can’t really put your finger on what British design is until you see it and understand it,” said Tim Murray, the interior design director of David Linley, to the Telegraph. True enough, it can be difficult to define this wide-ranging style. It’s found in austere royal residences like the Buckingham Palace as well as bolder, more contemporary spaces designed by the likes of Nina Campbell, Kelly Hoppen, and Ashley Hicks. A discerning eye, however, will be able to notice a British home’s classic feel and courageous use of pattern and color. English families tend to pass on collections of porcelain, silverware, and antiques for generations, so their homes possess an eclectic yet elegant mix of the old and the new—an indispensable element of this style. Equally essential is the use of plush, comfortable furniture pieces such as overstuffed chairs and tufted sofas.

Perfect for: Families who take pleasure in luxury and the finer things in life.

Introducing various European design styles to Manila is Megaworld’s new high-end real estate development, The Albany at McKinley West, an ultra-luxurious condominium that will be outfitted with some of the most prominent brands in home design.

The Albany will debut beautifully appointed units with private entrances from the elevators. Each unit boasts a kitchen equipped with top-of-the-line products by Leicht, Bosch, and Gaggenau, and a bath furnished by Duravit and Hansgrohe. For this project, Megaworld has partnered with Broadway Malyan, an award-winning British design practice that has a hand in major commercial and industrial projects in the United Kingdom, the U.S., and around Asia. 

Explore various European designs and find out which suits your taste at The Albany, where you can enjoy the privilege of space.