Eclectic Design: Let Your Creative Side Loose!
Eclectic design is a combination of various elements from different time periods. The goal is to create a kind of 3-d collage in your spaces. It’s fascinating to think that the everyday things you have at home (even those you would toss out) can make for completely original, striking visual environments.
The eclectic style has no rules. This is because it combines various styles into one, like classic, modern, romantic, rustic, and minimalist. An eclectic space has objects and design schemes from all of these styles at the same time. If you see an object from one time period that has nothing to do with another, you’re probably looking at eclectic design.
If you don’t know where to start with a remodel, or don’t have the budget for new furniture and accessories, don’t worry. We’re going to show you the basic principles of eclectic design, and we’re sure it’ll get your creative juices flowing!
The characteristics of eclectic design
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A mixture of elements
Like we said, this design scheme involves mixing and combining things from various styles and time periods. Remember, it’s not about choosing things at random and putting them wherever. You have to think carefully about what you want and be selective about what objects you choose and where you put them.
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Collecting
This is something common to just about all of us. We buy lots of objects and furniture but don’t get rid of them. This often ends up meaning that some things don’t fit in with the style, or you don’t have anywhere to put them. Eclectic design is perfect for you if you have this tendency to collect things.
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An air of nostalgia
This style also brings nostalgia with it. It means having objects with history, with meaning, with a past. Or, on the other hand, you might buy new things that you fall in love with and never want to get rid of. That’s an essential part of this design scheme, because it makes for warm, cozy environments.
You need to collect and combine a lot, but be sure not to clutter your spaces. What you want is a kind of composition, or collage, in all of your rooms. Combining and collecting doesn’t mean accumulating. You have to use the combinations to create a visual balance.
Advice on how to be successful with eclectic design
Combining materials, colors, textures, and size dimensions is your main tool when creating an eclectic environment. Below, we’re going to give you some tips on how to do that and let your creative side loose while you’re at it.
Combining colors
This style usually involves combining neutral colors like white, black, grey, or even brown, and contrasting them with golden or silvery colors. It’s best to paint your walls lighter colors so that the furniture and accessories stand out more.
Mixing materials
Rugs, curtains, and pillowcases are all key parts of giving your home an eclectic feel. Not only do fabrics add warmth to your interiors they also “dress up” your home. One of the main characteristics here is to have all kinds of designs and patterns. For example, you could have a brown leather couch with bright-colored velvet pillows.
If you have any upholstered couches, this is the perfect style for them!
There are endless ways to create an eclectic space. You don’t need to spend lots of money to decorate your house if you follow the principles of this design scheme.
It will give you the ability to create warm, striking spaces with a huge variety of styles. Eclectic design is about the things you already have. Following this scheme will make your home feel more intimate and interesting. So, make your own style with the objects you didn’t know what to do with before.
This style will give you a chance to let out your creative side and use your imagination. Move furniture and accessories around, re-upholster, paint, restore…Create things out of what you already have, play with color and material contrasts, and take a leap into the world of eclectic design!