Eclectic design is a method that does not limit itself to a singular set of rules. Eclectic design features a mixture of varied styles, from different periods, merging multiple tastes, aesthetics, and motifs to create a unique purposeful theme.
What are the Key Features of Eclectic Design?
Key characteristics of the eclectic design are:
- Mixed prints, patterns, textures
- Combination of globally diverse styles
- Blending traditional and modern
- Carefully curated items
- Repurposed furniture and fixtures
Where did Eclectic Design Begin?
The word eclectic was derived from the Greek term “eklektikos” meaning “to choose the best”, first coined in the 18th century by German art historian and archaeologist Johan Joachim Winckelmann about the work of Annibale Caracci. In the late 19th and 20th centuries, eclectic design developed in Paris primarily in architecture mixing Neoclassicism, Gothic Revival, and Byzantine styles. Eventually, the eclectic design made its way to paintings, interior design, and home decoration.
How to Style Using Eclectic Design?
Since eclectic design does not follow a set principle, there are no exact rules to apply this method.
Achieving a unique eclectic design may be done by:
- Selecting a specific color scheme to achieve a level of harmony in the combinations
- Feature an accent or focal point using walls, furniture, or decor
- Combine different materials, patterns, and textures
- Adopt features of varied style eras
- Contrast a neutral space with bold ornaments or vice versa
- Include just enough in a room to prevent overloading the space
Check LA Furniture for modern furniture pieces to go with your eclectic design.
What Eclectic Designs are Perfect for Furniture?
Kitsch eclectic design highlights personality and lifestyle and makes for a picture-worthy setup. An example is to partner a modern sofa with a traditional one, with a flamingo sculpture and golden chandelier in a room painted in bright colors.
The post-modern eclectic design emphasizes comfort, color, and humanity in a room. An example is to have furniture from the 50s and 70s in a simple and neutral space.
Pop-art eclectic design is bold, dynamic, and even sarcastic. Varied contrast, shapes, and materials are features of pop-art eclectic design, sometimes including controversial furniture or artwork.
Boho eclectic design centers on a relaxed, non-formal, hippie, or bohemian style which includes multiple cultural influences. Furniture is often in warm earthy tones and natural materials like wood, stone, straw, corkwood, and ceramics.
The vintage eclectic design combines classic and contemporary furniture and decor while mixing styles from different periods.
The industrial eclectic design gives tribute to industrial architecture. Furniture can appear rough and unfinished mixed with smoothened and distressed metal together with worn leather and wood.
