The world of design allows you to find your own creative expression and design a home that will reflect it. You don’t have to stick to a strict set of rules or limit your design choices. Instead, you can draw inspiration from different styles and merge their charms in your own personal haven. While some design enthusiasts admire a specific style and its authentic appeal, others choose to see the beauty in two or even three styles and bring them into their homes. So, if you want a home that exudes variety and authenticity, here’s how you can mix and match design styles like a true design pro.
1. Set up a neutral, clutter-free base
The best way to let different styles stand out in your home is to create a fresh, clean and neutral base. Most people believe that mixing styles in interior design entails introducing all kinds of quirky accessories and embellishments. However, this will only create a cluttered ambience where none of your home’s beautiful features will truly shine. Decluttering your space will create a more open atmosphere and set the scene for the styles you want to introduce. You can even paint your interior for a fresh, new look. Subtle, neutral shades and muted tones are perfect for a home where two styles meet.
2. Pick your styles, but aim for balance
There are so many inspiring interior styles, including traditional, rustic, modern, contemporary, etc. You can choose those that you find inspiring and that reflect your personal taste. However, when combining two or more styles, you should aim at creating a balanced look that won’t be overbearing. The styles you choose should stand out in a given setting, which can be achieved only if you avoid fussiness and excessiveness. The safest option is to follow the 80/20 or 60/30/10 rule in the case of two or three styles respectively. The dominant style should take 80% or 60% of your space while the rest of the space should be decorated with one or two accent styles. This way, you’ll be able to create a balanced, yet unique ambience where all of the styles can come into focus.
3. Link your pieces
When introducing two or more styles into your home, you need to find a way to link them for a cohesive look. You should introduce design elements that have at least one feature in common. For example, if you use the same colour for different styles, you’ll be able to tie the room together. You can also use the same shapes, lines, textures or patterns to connect two or more styles. Repeating graphic patterns throughout your home can also help you combine different styles in a harmonious manner. You can even use different styles to portray the same theme in your space, creating a sense of cohesiveness.
4. Choose an impactful focal point
If you want to introduce a contrasting style to your space subtly, but still create a “wow” effect, you can accentuate one focal point in a room. A single piece can stand out perfectly against a contrasting setting, especially if you juxtapose it with an understated environment. If you have a vintage, traditional bedroom, you can embellish it with a mesmerising modern wood bed that will complement such a design perfectly. The modern design of simple, clean lines will contrast the ornamentation and intricacies of a vintage design. And since a vintage style often features rustic wooden elements, the texture of the bed will help you create a cohesive look.
5. Let function take the centre stage
Emphasising the function in a multi-style setting is another great way to create a harmonious environment. This will help you control the setting instead of overcrowding your space with excessive accessories. You’ll be able to define a room and let its purpose dominate the space while using interior styles and embellishments to create visual appeal. Achieving such an effect is quite simple – you just need to put furniture and other functional pieces to the forefront.
6. Use art to create a striking contrast
One of the simplest ways to introduce a specific interior style into your home is to use artwork. Welcoming art pieces into your space will elevate your home décor, turn your empty walls into mesmerising statements and create a contrast against the dominant style. For instance, a modern setting can greatly benefit from traditional art and paintings with vintage, ornate frames portraying still nature. On the other hand, abstract masterpieces will truly spice up a traditional home design. The way you use artwork can also create a specific effect in your home. Finally, you can go beyond paintings and use posters, photographs, quotes, sculptures, installations and even entire wall murals. You have the freedom to experiment, but make sure to still aim for balance and harmony, linking different elements and embellishment with a shared feature.
A home where different styles meet is truly authentic and inspiring. By mixing different styles, you’ll be able to find your own stylistic expression and design a space that truly reflects your personality and taste.
