Relax and Enjoy an Extreme Style Mix
Start With What You Have, Add What You Love, and the Result Can Be Beautiful
When beginning a room design people can often get caught up in trying to define their exact style: traditional, contemporary, cottage, transitional. This can prove to be limiting. An alternative approach to designing a space can be to start with favorite pieces already owned. Afterwards add in only items that are equally appreciated and enjoy the mix that ensues — which may be an extreme style mix. As these rooms will show, this approach can add up to beautiful.
The style mix is not initially apparent in this room, perhaps because of the beautiful symmetry created by the ceiling beams and drapery panels. But looking closer, the traditional mantel is in strong contrast to a contemporary coffee table, while the chairs flanking the fireplace feature traditional tufting on one and paired down modern lines on the another.
The extreme mix is seen here through the parsons entry table sitting below a baroque gold framed mirror. Add in bright sculptural lamps, and a charming vignette is the result.
Tulip-inspired chairs pulled up to an antique table creates an extreme style mix that works. The approach is continued by placing a modern white bookcase below a worn chalkboard.
Two feminine pagoda chandeliers create interesting contrast to the Miro print, black bookcase featuring strong and simple lines, and the large glass-top table.
A Fortuny silk pendant hung above a sleek white table and metallic leather chairs combine styles and eras with success.
Modern abstract paintings, a minimal pendant fixture and parsons table are mixed with an antique sideboard and a wide range of chair styles.
In this transitional design, a modern abstract painting and glass chandelier are mixed with traditional furniture and a classic stone mantel.
A mix of accessories featuring an extreme range of styles can add a lot to a design. Here an earthy driftwood lamp is paired with a modern white ceramic accent, wooden balls placed in a wire basket and linen pillows featuring traditional prints in a bold Kelly green.
The dramatic hood brings a strong industrial element to a kitchen embracing country elements: a ceramic rooster, the butcher block island and red stools.
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Browse more photos of eclectic designs