Have you found yourself torn between two interior design styles? Maybe you love the clean lines of contemporary design but can’t resist the charm of rustic interiors. Or perhaps you’re drawn to the timeless elegance of more traditional styles yet want to add a modern twist.
If you’ve found yourself stuck and bouncing between styles, the good news is that you don’t have to choose just one.
Blending styles is not only possible, but can create a space that feels layered, personal, and authentically you. In this blog, we’ll explore when and how to mix styles effectively, so your home feels cohesive rather than chaotic.
When blending styles works best
Blending styles is ideal when you’re trying to:
- Reflect your personality: Your home should tell your story, and that often involves drawing inspiration from more than one design style.
- Share a space with someone else: Combining styles can be a great way to merge differing tastes into a design that allows everyone’s personality to shine through.
- Add character to your home: Mixing elements from different styles can bring depth, interest, and a sense of individuality to your space.
The key is to balance the mix so it feels intentional and well thought out rather than an accidental mish-mash.
How to blend styles successfully
Blending styles requires a thoughtful approach to ensure your space feels cohesive. Here are some some pointers to help you get it right:
1. Choose a Dominant Style
Start by picking one style to serve as the foundation of your design. This doesn’t mean the second style is less important, but having a clear base ensures the space feels grounded.
For example, if you love contemporary design but want to incorporate rustic elements, keep the clean lines and neutral palette of contemporary interiors as your base, then add warmth with wooden furniture or earthy textures.
Top Tip: Stick to an 80/20 rule – 80% of your space should reflect the dominant style, while 20% introduces contrasting elements.
2. Find Common Ground
Look for shared features between the styles you want to blend. For instance, transitional design is a natural bridge between traditional and contemporary styles, as it combines classic shapes with modern finishes.
You can also use colour, texture, or material to unify the two styles – for example, choosing a consistent colour palette that runs throughout the space.
Top Tip: Use one or two unifying elements, like colour or texture, to create harmony across different design styles.
3. Use Contrast Wisely
Contrast is what makes blending styles interesting, but it needs to be done with intention. Pairing opposites (like a sleek, modern sofa with a vintage, weathered coffee table) can make both pieces stand out. Just be careful not to overwhelm the space with too many competing elements.
Top Tip: Limit high-contrast pairings to one or two focal points in each room to maintain balance.
4. Start Small
If you’re nervous about blending styles, start with smaller rooms or areas. A guest bedroom or home office is a great place to experiment with mixing styles before you tackle larger spaces like the living room.
Top Tip: Play with decor and accessories first – cushions, artwork, or rugs can be an easy way to introduce a second style without committing to large furniture pieces.
Examples of blended styles
Here are some ideas for blending popular styles:
- Contemporary and Rustic: Pair sleek, modern furniture with natural materials like reclaimed wood or stone. Add soft, earthy textiles for warmth.
- Traditional and Eclectic: Ground the space with classic furniture, then add eclectic flair through bold patterns, unique lighting, or unexpected art.
- Minimalist and Transitional: Keep the clean lines and neutral palette of Minimalism but introduce some traditional elements, like a tufted armchair or ornate mirror, for character.
Creating a home that’s uniquely yours
Blending styles is all about creating a space that feels personal, balanced, and intentional. By choosing a dominant style, finding common ground, and using contrast wisely, you can combine your favourite elements from different styles to design a home that reflects who you are.
Whether you want a modern space with a rustic twist or a classic design with a bold, eclectic edge, the possibilities are endless.
Need help adding your unique style to your home? Book a consultation call and get expert guidance on creating a cohesive, beautiful space that suits your personality and lifestyle.