Eclectic interior design is a style that combines different design elements and periods to create a unique and personalised look, it’s all about breaking the rules by mixing and matching different styles and colours to create a cohesive and visually interesting space, we also take a look at how to mix modern and antique furniture in your home.
Here are some key elements of eclectic interior design:
MIX & MATCH PATTERNS & COLOURS
Eclectic design is all about mixing and matching different patterns and colours to create a visually interesting space, don't be afraid to experiment with bold patterns and unexpected colour combinations to create a vintage maximalist decor style.
When choosing the pattern play with different scales of pattern size and think about incorporating a stripe or animal print for a funky home decor touch.
COMBINE DIFFERENT DESIGN STYLES
An eclectic interior can incorporate elements of different design styles, from traditional to modern, the key is to find a way to make them work together seamlessly.
The repetition of shape, pattern, and texture within a room and around the home will help differing styles live harmoniously.
A cohesive combined style is not about a homogenous look, but making sure elements don't feel out of place.
USE BOLD ARTWORK & ACCESSORIES
Bold artwork and accessories can add personality and interest to an eclectic interior, look for pieces that have interesting shapes, textures, and colours.
Don't be afraid to put contemporary art in a traditional space, or vice versa, it is often the merging of seemingly incongruous styles that creates beauty through surprise.
EMBRACE TEXTURE
Texture is an important element in eclectic design, incorporate different textures such as velvet, leather, and woven fabrics to create a visually interesting space.
By playing with different heights and scale can also draw more interest to your design, for example when it comes to a living room, layer accessories, books, scatter cushions and throws throughout and consider the tactile features in the choice of fabric or finish as well.
FOCUS ON FUNCTIONALITY
While eclectic design is all about breaking the rules, it's important to focus on functionality, make sure that the space is comfortable and has a good flow.
Think about how your family moves throughout the house, and how they use each room, by creating a clear and open path that isn’t obstructed by furniture, establish a flow that will make the most of your floor plan.
POSTS RELATED TO STYLING AN ECLECTIC INTERIOR:
INCORPORATE VINTAGE & ANTIQUE PIECES
Vintage and antique pieces can add character and charm to an eclectic interior style, they can be paired with modern elements to create a unique and personalised look.
Scroll on to discover our trade secrets for using antiques in your design.
Mixing modern and antique furniture is a great way to create a unique and personalised look in your home, however, it can be a tricky endeavour as there is a balance to be struck between the two styles, here are some tips for successfully mixing modern and antique furniture in your home:
1. START WITH A NEUTRAL BACKGROUND
A neutral background, such as white or beige walls, provides a clean slate to work with when mixing modern and antique furniture, this allows the furniture to stand out and ensures that the space does not become too busy or overwhelming.
2. CHOOSE A UNIFYING THEME
One way to successfully mix modern and antique furniture is to choose a unifying theme, this could be a colour palette, a design style, or even a particular era.
For example, a space could feature both mid-century modern furniture and antique pieces from the Art Deco period, the key is to find a common thread that ties the pieces together.
3. USE MODERN FURNITURE AS A STATEMENT PIECE
Modern furniture with clean lines and bold colours can serve as a statement piece in a room filled with antique furniture, this will create a focal point that draws the eye and adds a modern touch to the space.
4. MIX & MATCH STYLES
Mixing and matching furniture styles can create a unique and interesting look and is a vital component to achieving an eclectic interior, for example, a modern sofa could be paired with an antique armchair, or a rustic dining table could be paired with modern chairs.
The key is to find pieces that complement each other and create a cohesive look.
5. ADD ACCESSORIES
Accessories such as rugs, artwork, and lighting can help tie modern and antique furniture together, a modern rug with a bold pattern can complement an antique sofa, while a vintage chandelier can add a touch of elegance to a modern dining room.
6. DON'T BE AFRAID TO EXPERIMENT
Implementing antique pieces into your design is all about experimentation, don't be afraid to try out different combinations and see what works and remember, the key is to find a balance between the two styles that feels cohesive and reflects your personal taste.
Using antiques in an eclectic design can be a fun and rewarding way to create a unique and personalised look in your home, by following these tips and experimenting with different combinations, you can create a space that is both stylish and functional.
In conclusion, eclectic interior design is a style that allows you to express your personality and creativity by mixing and matching different design elements and periods, incorporating vintage pieces, using bold artwork and accessories, and embracing texture, you can create a unique and personalised space that reflects your personal style.
