Eclectic design began as an architectural style in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Many types of “revivalist” styles were growing in popularity at the time, such as gothic and neoclassical. Architects began to freely mix elements from these different revival styles, and thus eclectic style was born.
These new eclectic exteriors called for eclectic interiors to match. The interior design aesthetic focused on mixing styles, as well as displaying the wealth of the families commissioning these new spaces. As a result, many eclectic spaces were inherently lush, layered, and lavish.
These days, eclectic may just be the worst understood design aesthetic. It’s not uncommon to see chaotic, dis-organized, or clashing spaces improperly described as eclectic.
Chaos and clashing have nothing to do with eclectic spaces. In fact, intentionality and balance are at the heart of well-executed eclectic design.
Vision is Vital
Perhaps more so than any other style, eclectic design demands a well-defined vision. The style is all about combining elements from many aesthetics. As such, without a clear vision, the space quickly becomes muddled.
When planning your eclectic space, you must decide on:
- The layout
- The unifying concept
- The color palette
To better understand these three elements, we’ll go into each in a little more detail.
1. The Layout
Take stock of the largest furniture and design elements you want to incorporate and decide ahead of time how they will fit together in the room. Once you have the layout settled, you’ll have a much better idea of what extras and decorative elements the space can comfortably fit.
2. The Unifying Concept
With eclectic style, your unifying element could be just about anything. Finish, pattern, shape, or texture can all be used successfully. Whatever concept you choose, it should feature prominently in many of the biggest and boldest elements in the space.
3. The Color Palette.
Choosing a core color palette is vital to maintaining cohesion within your design.
Generally speaking, use a neutral shade as a foundation color. Then choose one or two main accent colors to layer on top. Maintaining a neutral shade as part of your color scheme is an effective way to ensure all your bright, unique details stand out.
Innovation and Uniqueness
Once you’ve got your vision hammered out, it’s time to go wild with the whimsical details.
Many of the best eclectic designs use common items and materials in unconventional ways. Such innovative re-purposing speaks to the heart of this design aesthetic, and its predilection for upending convention.
Another key eclectic element is the incorporation of unique, handmade, and personally valuable items. It’s not uncommon for treasured souvenirs to be featured prominently in the décor. Large-scale, original artwork is another common focal point. These details are what gives eclectic design it’s highly personal appeal.
When you’re incorporating these whimsical elements, be sure to keep you editor’s eye open. Overstuffing your space with too many knick-knacks can make it feel tacky and less intentional.
Balance and Symmetry
Many eclectic designs apply bi-lateral symmetry, closely mirroring one half of the room with the other. However, you don’t have to be this precise if it doesn’t work for your space.
The most important part of balance to remember is that every element must feel purposeful. If you have a beautiful throw pillow you want to show off, but it’s barely visible against the couch upholstery, it loses its sense of prominence.
Because balancing all the fun colors, lines, patterns, textures, etc. is one of the biggest challenges of eclectic style, consider keeping your wildest design choices confined to items like pillows, rugs, or smaller artwork. You may need to shuffle things around or remove pieces to get the balance just right. It’s much easier to remove a rug than to re-wallpaper or dismantle a sectional.
Uniquely You
For those who want a space that is entirely and enthusiastically about them, you can’t beat eclectic. Every design choice is controlled by the designer’s whims. No color is off limits, no pattern is too busy.
By following some basic design advice you’ll avoid the common pitfalls of clutter and chaos. However, at then end, of the day you are in control of every part of the design. After all, it wouldn’t be eclectic without the freedom to experiment.
© Laura Holt 2020
L.E.H. Writes 