This is the sixth and last article in the ‘Find Your Style‘ series. It aims to provide you with a few styling ideas and, hopefully, the confidence to decorate in a way that feels like you.
An Eclectic Style
As you are getting familiar with different interior design styles, you’ve surely noticed that lines between them are often blurred. You might have identified your core style, but also feel drawn to others.
The good news is you don’t have to be monogamous to one design style.
You can go eclectic.
An eclectic interior consists of a juxtaposition of styles, allowing your personality to shine. It has that one-of-a-kind feel, with intriguing layers and elements.
It is often seen as a style in itself, just like ‘traditional’ or ‘industrial’, but I don’t fully agree. Just read the description above – Isn’t it what we all want for our homes, to be personal and interesting?
And I will go as far as saying that the best interiors are eclectic and that every home, to some degree, should be eclectic.
Mixing styles is when things really get interesting. It adds character and dimension to a space, and the different layers are what will make it feel uniquely you.
But: There is a fine line between looking intentional or haphazard, harmonious or messy…
Tips for Mixing Styles
To create a beautiful eclectic interior, cohesiveness is key. This *style* is highly considered, and requires thought put into the design. You also need a conceptual thread that ties the look together.
Here are some tips to pull off the look:
1. Define your framework
I usually recommend to stick to a maximum of 3 styles: One should be dominant (60%), then pick another as a secondary style (30%) and a third one for details (10%). That’s not to say you can’t have a fourth or even a fifth style, but this 60/30/10 formula makes it easy to start mixing pieces, gain confidence, and own your look. It also enables you with a little more focus to establish your base, and helps to make everything visually balanced.
Before you start decorating, you should keep in mind your style mantra (download the workbook to help you define yours), and think of your current home’s architecture, geographical location, desired mood, and colors.
2. Stick to a color palette
The color palette is the easiest common thread to use in an eclectic interior, and allows everything to flow together harmoniously.
This is particularly true with a palette that has a good dose of neutrals. It will lay the foundation for an “effortless”, harmonious space while providing a solid backdrop to your mix and match of. More vibrant hues and patterns can be introduced as accents, without feeling overbearing.
Remember that your color palette will be influenced by the style your want, and especially the desired mood. You can refer to the ‘All About Colors’ article series to help you understand and plan a palette for your home.
3. Play with textures and shapes
When you feel like something is missing or that a room feels a little flat, the solution often is to add more textures and shapes. It is THE thing that will add visual weight and balance, no matter the style. But always make sure there is a recurring theme to not end up all over the place. Gradual layering is the way to go.
4. Use art
Nothing transforms a space -and a style- faster than art. It is also an easy way to create a focal point and to have that curated feel in an instant. Plus, you can introduce a different style simply by swapping your picture frames!
5. Mix old and new
Marrying vintage with modern is the one single thing you can do to add lots of character to a home. It creates a collected, lived-in look with interesting contrasts and layers.
6. Use statement pieces
Do you love an eye-catching piece but you are not sure if it will fit in your home? Don’t be afraid to buy/use it. Statement objects are often what “makes the room and sets the tone. They serve as focal points, sculptural elements and even conversation starters.
7. Keep it uncluttered
Unnecessary “stuff” will make your eclectic décor look chaotic and haphazard. Too many objects also draw our attention away from what the focus should be on. You likely already have nice things around your home, but in a busy, crowded place, they probably don’t have the precedence they deserve. Refine, edit down your possessions, and eliminate. Make sure everything belongs, with a place and a purpose. Remember: Eclectic interiors are highly intentional.
8. Start small
Once you defined your vision for a space, the next step is to create a vignette or a nook that encapsulates the style. It is like your moodboard turned into reality. This will serve as your starting point for the rest of the room, and you can easily refer back to it when making design decisions. Then, move on to another room.
Your home reflects your style and is an extension of who you are. It will evolve overtime, just as you do.
People change, tastes change. You don’t have to live with the same style forever, and there are no boundaries set in stone when it comes to expressing yourself.
Creating a home takes time, and it is a journey, an on-going project. And that’s ok! Realizing this will bring you peace, relieve some stress, and allow you to enjoy the process so much more. So have fun, and keep that vision of yours in mind. Experiment, just like you would with spices, flavors, textures and new ingredients to perfect your signature recipe. Have the patience to hunt for that special piece you need and will love. Favor the personal over the perfect, and quality over quantity. Mix things up, experiment, and have fun. Most importantly, focus on creating a home that is meaningful to you.
Photos: Mikkel Tjellesen