Eclectic decorating involves mixing different styles, patterns, textures, and eras in a way that is harmonious and balanced. While it may share some similarities with bohemian décor, there are some key differences.
Here are some examples of elements that you may find in an eclectically decorated home that differentiate it from bohemian interior decorating:
- Neutral color scheme: Eclectic décor often features a neutral color palette, with pops of color added through accessories, artwork, or textiles. In contrast, bohemian décor typically embraces bright and bold colors.
- Vintage and antique furniture: Eclectic décor often incorporates vintage and antique pieces, but in a more controlled and intentional way than in bohemian décor. The furniture pieces may be from different eras, but they are carefully selected to work together.
- Clean lines and simple shapes: While eclectic décor can be playful and whimsical, it often features clean lines and simple shapes. In contrast, bohemian décor tends to embrace more organic, flowing shapes.
- Mix of high and low-end pieces: Eclectic décor often blends high-end pieces with more affordable finds, creating a look that is both stylish and accessible. In contrast, bohemian décor often incorporates a lot of handmade or one-of-a-kind pieces.
- Layered textures: Eclectic décor may feature a mix of textures, such as a velvet sofa paired with a jute rug and a fur throw. However, the textures are layered in a way that feels intentional and cohesive. In contrast, bohemian décor may feature more of a maximalist approach to texture, with layers of different fabrics and materials all competing for attention.
- Bold artwork: Eclectic décor often features bold and graphic artwork, which can help anchor a space and add visual interest. In contrast, bohemian décor may feature more abstract or dreamy artwork, or may even incorporate textiles or tapestries as wall hangings.
Eclectic interior design can be a fun and creative way to decorate your home, but it can also be challenging to get right. Here are some key points to keep in mind to make eclectic interior design work:
- Choose a unifying element: To make an eclectic interior design feel cohesive, it’s important to choose a unifying element, such as a color, pattern, or texture. This can help tie together disparate pieces and create a sense of harmony in the space.
- Mix and match styles and eras: The beauty of eclectic interior design is that you can mix and match different styles and eras to create a unique look. However, it’s important to balance the different elements so that they work together, rather than compete with each other.
- Be intentional with placement: When decorating an eclectic space, it’s important to be intentional with the placement of objects. A haphazard arrangement can feel cluttered and chaotic, while a well-curated display can feel sophisticated and interesting.
- Create balance: To prevent an eclectic interior design from feeling overwhelming, it’s important to create balance in the space. This can mean balancing different colors, textures, and patterns, or balancing different types of furniture and accessories.
- Don’t be afraid to break the rules: Eclectic interior design is all about breaking the rules and creating something unique and unexpected. Don’t be afraid to mix and match items that you wouldn’t normally think to put together, and don’t be afraid to take risks and try something new.
While eclectic interior design can be a great way to express your unique personality and style, there are a few things that can detract from its overall aesthetic. Here are a few things that can potentially ruin eclectic interior design; clutter, lack of cohesion, being overly matchy, or ignoring functionality. Overall, have fun with it! Stop by our showroom or visit our store online to check out some our fun decor pieces or bold fabrics.