15 Common Interior Design Terms You’re Probably Saying Wrong
Avoid embarrassing design blunders—master the correct pronunciation (and meaning) of these tricky interior terms.
The world of interior design is full of jargon, much of it borrowed from French, Italian, and other languages. Whether you’re a decor enthusiast or just trying to describe your style, confidently navigating these terms can set you apart and help avoid awkward moments at the furniture store or with your contractor. Here’s a comprehensive guide to 15 design terms that are often mispronounced—with accurate pronunciations, definitions, and practical usage tips.
Bullion Fringe
How to Pronounce: BULL-yun frinj
What It Is: Bullion fringe is a decorative trim made of thick, twisted cords, often used as an accent on sofas, drapery, and skirted tables. Its substantial texture adds a sense of classic luxury and sophistication to upholstered furniture and home textiles.
- Bullion is borrowed from the French word for “bullion,” relating to twisted gold or silver, but is pronounced with a ‘y’, not ‘lee’ as in bouillon soup.
- Works especially well in traditional and historical interiors, and is making a comeback in contemporary design for a touch of grandeur.
Chaise Lounge
How to Pronounce: shayz LAWNJ or, for the more French-inclined, shez long
What It Is: The original French is chaise longue (“long chair”), describing an elongated upholstered seat made for reclining and stretching out. In America, it’s commonly spelled and pronounced “chaise lounge.”
- Perfect for sunrooms, bedrooms, libraries, or reading nooks.
- The French version sounds more authentic, but both are acceptable in English usage.
Étagère
How to Pronounce: ay-tah-ZHAIR or ay-ta-ZHAIR (stress on last syllable)
What It Is: An étagère is an open shelving unit or stand designed to display small objects—think books, collectibles, or plants. Popularized in Victorian times, it’s a favorite for adding vertical interest without visual clutter.
- French origins, so use a soft “zh” sound as in “measure.”
- Ideal for living rooms, offices, or anywhere you want to highlight decorations.
Toile
How to Pronounce: twahl (rhymes with “wall”)
What It Is: Toile refers to a lightweight fabric (often cotton or linen) printed with intricate, repeating pastoral scenes, flowers, or figures—traditionally in a single color, most commonly blue or red, on a white background.
- Originates from the French for “cloth.”
- Classic in bedding, wallpaper, curtains, and upholstery—especially in country and traditional styles.
Faux Bois
How to Pronounce: foh-BWAH
What It Is: French for “false wood,” faux bois describes techniques or patterns that mimic the appearance of wood grain on another material—usually concrete, ceramic, or paint.
- Used for garden furniture, wallpaper, ceramics, and painted finishes.
- Combines rustic charm with durability or the whimsy of trompe l’œil.
Ottoman
How to Pronounce: AH-tuh-mahn (not “auto man”)
What It Is: An ottoman is a padded, upholstered bench or footstool, often with storage inside. It’s named after the Ottoman Empire, where such low seating originated.
- Use as a coffee table alternative, at the foot of the bed, or for extra seating.
- Although simple, the word’s accent should be on the first syllable, not muddled into “auto-man.”
Chesterfield
How to Pronounce: CHES-ter-feeld
What It Is: The Chesterfield is a distinctive style of sofa, instantly recognizable by its deep button-tufted upholstery, rolled arms (usually the same height as the back), and typically covered in leather. British in origin and exuding club room elegance.
- A timeless choice for both modern and classic living spaces, elevating any room with luxurious comfort.
- Not to be confused with other tufted sofas—Chesterfields are defined by their unique proportions.
Kilim
How to Pronounce: kih-LEEM
What It Is: Kilim is a flatwoven rug native to Turkey, Iran, and nearby countries. Unlike knotted pile rugs, kilims are woven with a tapestry technique, featuring vivid geometric patterns and bright colors.
- The second syllable is emphasized and pronounced “leem,” not “kil-im.”
- Kilims are lightweight, affordable, and durable—ideal for adding global flair and color to any space.
Rattan
How to Pronounce: ra-TAN (stress on second syllable)
What It Is: Rattan is a material made from the stems of tropical climbing palms, widely used in furniture and basketry. Its natural texture and flexibility make it a favorite in coastal, bohemian, and vintage interiors.
- Treat the second “a” with the sound in “tan,” not “ra-tawn” or “ruh-tan.”
- Distinct from wicker, which refers to the weaving technique, not the material.
Matelassé
How to Pronounce: ma-tuh-lah-SAY
What It Is: Matelassé is a French term for fabric with a padded, quilted effect—created not by actual padding, but by weaving two or more sets of threads for a raised, textured look. Popular for coverlets, shams, and accent pillows.
- The final “é” gives an “ay” sound, not “ee” or a flat “e.”
- Elegant and timeless, matelassé adds rich texture without bulk.
Settee
How to Pronounce: seh-TEE (not “setty” or “seht-ay”)
What It Is: A settee is a small upholstered sofa or bench, usually with a back and arms, designed for intimate seating in parlors, entryways, or at the foot of a bed.
- The stress is on the last syllable, resembling “tea.”
- Smaller than a traditional sofa—great for tight spaces or as a decorative accent.
Cloche
How to Pronounce: klosh (rhymes with “posh”)
What It Is: Cloche is French for “bell.” In home design, it generally means a glass dome used to cover plants, decor objects, or food displays, creating a mini greenhouse or an elegant focal point.
- The “ch” is soft—don’t say “kloshay” or “clotch.”
- Cloche domes offer beauty and function, protecting delicate items and adding height to table arrangements.
Damask
How to Pronounce: DAM-ask (not “duh-MASK”)
What It Is: Damask refers to a reversible figured fabric with a pattern woven into it, often in satin, silk, linen, or synthetic blends. Renowned for its subtle, elegant lustre and rich patterns—classic for drapery, table linens, and upholstery.
- Named for the city of Damascus, stress the first syllable.
- Formal but flexible, appropriate for both traditional and modern interiors.
Vitreous
How to Pronounce: VIT-ree-us
What It Is: Vitreous describes a glass-like, glossy surface—often used to talk about vitreous china, which is glazed ceramic (usually used for sinks or basins).
- Emphasize the “vit” at the beginning, as in “vitamin.”
- The finish is nonporous, durable, and beautiful—ideal for bath and kitchen fixtures.
Tête-à-Tête
How to Pronounce: TET-uh-TET
What It Is: French for “head-to-head,” a tête-à-tête is a two-seat sofa with seats facing each other—encouraging intimate conversation, perfect for bay windows, salons, or entry halls.
- Do not pronounce as “teet-a-teet.”
- Offers a romantic and practical seating arrangement that sparks conversation and connection.
Chinoiserie
How to Pronounce: sheen-wahz-uh-REE
What It Is: Chinoiserie is a European style imitating Chinese and East Asian artistic motifs—from wallpaper and ceramics to lacquered furniture and gilt mirrors. It features ornate patterns, pagodas, and depictions of Asian landscapes and figures.
- The “ch” is pronounced ”sh” and the emphasis should be on the final syllable (“ree”).
- Timeless for formal dining rooms, bedrooms, and accent decor.
Quick Reference Table: Tricky Design Terms
| Term | Correct Pronunciation | What It Refers To |
|---|---|---|
| Bullion Fringe | BULL-yun frinj | Thick decorative trim made from twisted cords |
| Chaise Lounge | shayz LAWNJ / shez long | Reclining upholstered lounge chair |
| Étagère | ay-tah-ZHAIR | Open shelving unit/display stand |
| Toile | twahl | Fabric with pastoral scenes, usually blue/red on white |
| Faux Bois | foh-BWAH | Wood-mimicking pattern/technique |
| Ottoman | AH-tuh-mahn | Upholstered bench or footstool |
| Chesterfield | CHES-ter-feeld | Deep-buttoned, rolled-arm sofa |
| Kilim | kih-LEEM | Flatwoven rug, often geometric |
| Rattan | ra-TAN | Flexible woven furniture material |
| Matelassé | ma-tuh-lah-SAY | Padded, quilted-effect fabric |
| Settee | seh-TEE | Small upholstered sofa/bench |
| Cloche | klosh | Glass dome cover |
| Damask | DAM-ask | Woven pattern fabric |
| Vitreous | VIT-ree-us | Glossy, glass-like ceramic finish |
| Tête-à-Tête | TET-uh-TET | Two seats facing for conversation |
| Chinoiserie | sheen-wahz-uh-REE | Chinese influenced decorative style |
Tips for Mastering Design Terminology
- Listen and Repeat: Watch design shows or listen to design podcasts where these terms are used in context and practice pronouncing them out loud.
- Learn from the Pros: Many interior designers post videos or audio guides to correct pronunciations and can show you examples of where and how each term is used.
- Keep a Style Notebook: Jot down tricky words, definitions, and examples as you come across them so you can refer back and reinforce your memory.
- Don’t Be Intimidated: If you stumble over a word, don’t worry—most people do. What matters is making the effort to understand and communicate effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Are there more interior design terms that are commonly mispronounced?
A: Yes! The list above focuses on some of the most challenging and frequently used terms, but the lexicon of design is broad. Words like “bouclé” (boo-CLAY), “mullion” (MUL-yun), and “trompe l’oeil” (tromp LOY) trip up many homeowners, too.
Q: Is it important to use the exact French or Italian pronunciations?
A: Not strictly—most English speakers use anglicized versions. However, practicing the correct pronunciation can demonstrate your keen interest in design and help you communicate clearly with designers, architects, and vendors.
Q: Where can I hear these pronounced correctly?
A: Design video channels, online dictionaries, and audio guides often provide spoken pronunciations. Listening to professionals at showrooms or design events is also helpful.
Q: Does mispronouncing these words make me look uninformed?
A: Never be embarrassed—everyone starts somewhere, and most people in the industry appreciate curious learners. Using these terms correctly can enhance your comfort and confidence when discussing design.
Final Thoughts on Speaking Design Fluently
Gaining confidence with design terminology empowers you to clarify your vision, work seamlessly with professionals, and connect with fellow aficionados. Next time you shop for a settee, consider a kilim rug, or fall in love with chinoiserie wallpaper, you’ll have the know-how to communicate exactly what you want—without a hint of hesitation.
References
- https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/decorating-ideas/a63893063/slow-decorating-decorating-trend/
- https://www.housebeautiful.com/uk/decorate/a43861354/interior-design-mistakes-home-smaller/
- https://www.countryliving.com/home-design/a62609636/design-terms-you-are-saying-wrong/
- https://www.aol.com/5-expensive-design-mistakes-d-110000120.html
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