Eclectic Style is Here to Stay” />
What is Eclectic Style?
Eclectic style refers to interior design that mixes and matches decorative elements from various styles, countries, and time periods. The eclectic decorator pulls inspiration from far and wide, combining diverse influences into a unique and personal space.
Some key aspects of eclectic style include:
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Combining vintage, modern, and antique pieces – An eclectic room may include a contemporary sofa, mid-century modern coffee table, antique rug, and vintage lighting fixtures.
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Global influence – Eclectic style may incorporate Moroccan patterns, Japanese minimalism, Scandinavian simplicity, or other cultural and geographic styles.
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Mixing high and low – Eclectic decor embraces combining high-end designer pieces with budget-friendly items from thrift stores and garage sales.
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Personal expression – Every eclectic room is unique and reflective of the homeowner’s tastes and interests. There are no rules.
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Visual interest – Eclectic spaces feature an abundant mix of colors, textures, materials and eras to create a visually rich, layered look.
Why Eclectic Style is Gaining Popularity
Eclectic style has surged in popularity in recent years for several reasons:
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Accessibility – With online shopping and global inspiration, it’s easier than ever to source unique vintage and worldly décor items to create an eclectic space.
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Individuality – In a world filled with mass-produced furniture and cookie-cutter décor, eclectic style allows people to express their distinct tastes and interests through their living space.
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Budget-friendly – Blending new, vintage, custom, and thrifted pieces allows you to create a rich, collected look that fits your budget.
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Less restrictive – Eclectic style breaks the “rules” of interior design, giving people the freedom to follow their instincts.
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Reflects modern sensibility – An eclectic look resonates with a generation that values authenticity, sustainability, and thinking globally.
How to Decorate in Eclectic Style
Here are some tips for beautifully embracing eclectic style in your home:
Mix eras and styles
- Pair mid-century modern furniture with antique rugs and contemporary art. Combining design eras adds visual interest.
Incorporate meaningful pieces
- Include items picked up on your travels, family heirlooms, flea market finds, etc. These personal pieces add soul.
Choose a unifying color scheme
- Use color to tie the space together – shades of blue or green work well. Add pops of accent colors.
Repeat materials or textures
- Use the same material in different ways, like rattan chairs and a jute rug. Repeating textures creates cohesion.
Feature global designs
- Use pillows with Moroccan patterns, Turkish kilim ottomans, decorative Buddhas, African baskets. Global designs add exotic flair.
Mix high and low items
- Combine a Restoration Hardware sofa with thrift store end tables and handmade ceramics. The contrast is pleasing.
Add layers
- Place a sisal rug on top of a vintage rug. Hang curtains over roman shades. Layering adds depth.
Incorporate natural elements
- Houseplants, wood accents, rattan furniture, sheepskin throws, and other natural materials soften eclectic spaces.
Display collections
- Showcase artwork, photography, sculpture, or other treasures you’ve gathered. This adds personal narrative.
Eclectic Style is Endlessly Flexible
The beauty of eclectic style lies in its complete freedom of expression. You can blend eras, locations, colors, and styles however you like to reflect your own tastes and interests. Eclectic interiors are bold, inviting, and richly personalized – traits that never go out of fashion. This dynamic, globally-inspired aesthetic will continue inspiring unique, artful interiors for years to come.