Eclectic Decorating Ideas

Gone are the days where all textiles had to match and all furniture had to coordinate. These days, the eclectic approach is popular in home decor because it radiates authenticity and originality. Use pieces that express your unique design aesthetic and stop worrying about whether or not certain furniture, finishes or accessories will fit. Incorporate favorite art and some do-it-yourself (DIY) projects to make the space yours.

Types

The very notion of eclectic decor transcends the restrictions of themes and classifications. That said, there are certain design movements that embrace eclecticism. The bohemian modern approach, known as "bomo," is about bringing together the old and new, the arty and the mass-produced, to create bold rooms and backdrops. The Wabi-Sabi style centers on imperfect beauty in modest surroundings. Simple, time-worn furniture and restrained ornamentation and accessorizing typify the look. The retro look embraces the vintage and flea-market finds to revive a prior design trend, be it '70s lounge lizard or mid-century modernism.

Features

An eclectic decor centers upon colors, patterns and themes that strike the decorator's eye. It may be as simple as periwinkle blue accents throughout the home, or natural materials and modular shapes, or it may encompass furniture from around the world or pieces that have been repurposed or refurbished. Pops of color or surprising design juxtapositions--such as a diner table under a fuchsia acrylic chandelier--keep an eclectic decor visually interesting.

Function

Eclectic decor is about embracing form and function. A beautiful table may stand along in a minimalist environment but, in an eclectic one, it must have a rusty tin can holding sprigs of herbs or a stack of vintage books with covers in different shades of green. An upholstered ottoman is not set off in a corner by its lonesome, but surrounded by floor cushions so that it becomes an area for cocktails and conversation.

Effects

Eclectic decor may look busy to some people but, to those who champion it, the style radiates a soulful bohemianism. The colors, patterns and materials coexist peacefully because they all express the decorator's personality. Collections get center stage, be they a stack of sewing notions displayed on a thrift store spice rack or a windowsill lined with cobalt blue glass bottles. Books, which often spark conversations, are frequently the heart of an eclectic decor. Stack them at the sides of the bed to use as nightstands, or create the look of built-in bookcases by framing a doorway with tall, skinny shelves filled with tomes.

Considerations

Wall art is a key element of eclectic decor, but it can be challenging to amass a collection. Remember that ordinary objects make intriguing artwork. Set a mirror in a frame, or clip a few art postcards on a fishing line strung over your fireplace mantel. Create interesting groupings of multiple works of art by stacking them vertically on narrow walls or by pushing a few of them together so they almost touch.

References

• Apartment Therapy New York
• Victoria's BoMo Pad