Furnishing in one particular style can often feel restrictive, especially if it no longer fully reflects the character of the people who live there. For some, a single style may become too pompous, uncomfortable, or outdated. To keep everyone satisfied, more and more interiors now blend styles. Eclectic decorating style does not mean chaos or kitsch, but a balanced mix of furniture and influences. Classic and rustic furniture can be combined with Japanese- or Arabic-style elements. Designers are convinced this can work without making the interior look too busy. The right combination of design elements gives the room personality. Eclectic decorating style does not mean chaos; it shows how different visual elements can exist together in harmony.
Eclectic decorating style – tips and tricks
Eclecticism allows wooden furniture, patterned wallpaper, ceramics, laminate, stone, and plastic to be combined without competing with one another. Here are some tips to help you mix elements of different styles harmoniously.
Eclectic decorating style – 1. Start with the background
It is best to paint the walls white, even if you love bright wall colors. When you add many decorative elements, colors, and styles, the background should remain neutral. If you do not like all-white walls, choose a colorful accent, for example wallpaper next to the fireplace.
2. For the arrangement, the largest piece of furniture in the room is very important: the sofa in the living room, the bed in the bedroom, or the kitchen table. It often sets the tone for the other elements.
Eclectic decorating style – traditional Japanese elements
3. Create a balance between the leading piece and the other elements. Materials, shapes, and colors should be identical or similar.
4. Use unifying elements
Rugs and sofa cushions with the same zigzag pattern, but in different colors, can tie a room together. For a sense of solidity, use a steel bowl, since both pieces express durability. Statues from different cultures should at least be made from the same material.
5. Add beautiful home accessories
Paintings, pillows, bedspreads, tablecloths, and curtains add layers of detail and encourage the eye to move around the room instead of stopping at one object. Pay attention to small connections: repeat the edge of a plate in the line of the sofa, or echo the fabric look of curtains in the texture of silk wallpaper. When repeated discreetly, different items bring order to the lively mix.
White furniture and industrial chic
Zebra pattern and pink coffee table
White wallpaper with a subtle pattern
Yellow wallpaper with delicate roses
Visually distinct areas
Light blue walls with splashes of red
Eclectic mix in the living room
Bright orange sofa
Anna Lohan
Peter Dark
miranda_shida
Theresa V. Adams
