Eclectic Style Interior Design

Eclectic Style Interior Design Defined

As it applies to the world of design, eclecticism is a blend of furnishing styles from a mixture of sources and time periods. An eclectic room should feature pieces with commonalities to create harmony within the design. This is definitely not a hodgepodge or jumbled assortment of random items, but a planned deliberate design. A shared theme or component should tie everything together.

An eclectic styled interior designed room is brought together when the furnishings relate to each other in color, pattern, scale, texture, finish, or shape. The color schemes used can be diverse, but as a general rule, neutral colors are important both as a backdrop and for large furniture pieces. Perfect colors for this use include white, cream, gray, black, brown, taupe, and putty. Contrast is an important element for colors and materials in eclectic style interior design.

Other eclectic elements include:

• Neutral background color palettes
• Antiques used in moderation
• Collections and sets of similar pieces
• One of a kind items
• Global pieces from around the world
• Contrast in color or finish
• Traditional and modern elements together
• Rough fabrics mixed with elegant textiles
• Worn surfaces combined with refined surfaces

Eclectic in Action

When combining various furniture pieces, assemble complementary items based on their shapes, fabrics, or finish. A curvy, French sofa can be paired with a modern chaise lounge when the materials have some commonalities – perhaps coordinating fabrics are used on each piece. While an eclectic room’s fabrics should harmonize with each other, that doesn’t mean they need to be boring. Use interesting mixes of patterns and textures which have a similar hue in common, then add details like beaded trim or fringe.

Combining different finishes can also increase the feel of eclecticism in a room. For example, gray walls accentuate a silver statue which contrasts nicely in front of an antique tapestry. Mix and match furnishings by their finishes and textures while keeping an eye on their relationship to each other in the overall room design. The goal is a controlled contrast of diverse elements.

To keep your furniture and accessories in line with true eclectic style interior design, combine pieces that are no less than two eras apart. This technique will keep the pieces in greater contrast to each other. For an informal provincial look, you could combine furnishings such as Windsor style colonial chairs, a French country armoire, and southwestern style textiles.

Eclectic Style Interior Design Resources

HGTV’s Eclectic Portfolio – Room designs from top designers.

Sofa Garden – An eclectic collection of decorative pillows.

West Elm – Furniture and accessories for eclectic rooms.