Five Beautiful Things

 

Embracing Eclecticism

 

Learning to live with the things you love should not be as daunting as it is. We have been conditioned over the years to adhere to decorating trends and to follow them religiously in our homes: “don’t put these two colors together; don’t mix patterns; that’s so last year.” Thankfully, I work in a creative environment that nurtures eclectic design and style, which I believe is beautiful, if only by virtue of the individualistic approach it encourages in those that employ it at home.

 

This post was inspired by my friend April Walsh and her family, who recently won a magazine contest, which afforded them a full kitchen makeover from Ikea. Their style is the perfect representation of what eclecticism means to a young family: the mixing of treasured objects (old, new, upcycled and repurposed) with functional, modern appliances and surfaces. Click here to see the video of their new kitchen!

 

Below are five images that also represent this style beautifully. While there are no real rules to making this style work, there are some simple guidelines that might be helpful. Notice that the rooms are bright and airy with a neutral base. This helps makes the treasured objects and unique design statements shine while also keeping them grounded. It keeps the rooms looking modern, not kitschy. The rooms are curated, not cluttered, and textures are overlapped and paired unexpectedly to create visual interest but are not overwhelming the space. The real key is editing.

 

So, go ahead: take out that collection of vintage salt-&-pepper shakers and put them on display. Use your imagination and dare to be free-spirited. It’s your home, after all.

 

Click here to see more images like this.

 

 

Tell us about YOUR style in the comments section below