How to Decorate an Interior in the Eclectic Style

Strictly speaking, any interior is eclectic: even 'pure' historical styles, switching one for another, adopt some features and characteristics from predecessors. Eclecticism as a distinct style began to be recognized in the mid-19th century, when Europe started actively building architecture that incorporated elements from several classical directions. Today, eclecticism refers to an interior where two or three different styles harmoniously coexist.

Some people turn to eclecticism when they already have some existing interior elements, others travel a lot and enjoy filling their home with items from various continents and cultures, while others simply feel cramped within the confines of a single style. How to make an eclectic interior cohesive and cozy? We will give you the recipe.

ECLECTIC STYLE DNA
When and where it appeared: in the mid-19th century in Europe.
Style foundation: harmonious combination of several stylistic directions in one interior, complexity, rich colors.
Notable names: Philippe Starck, Marcel Wanders, Alessandro Mendini.

5 Rules for Decorating an Interior in the Eclectic Style
1. Free space and air
As with the interior's content, the layout in this style can vary. However, it is important not to forget that even the most modest eclecticism always involves a lot of visual information. To prevent any item or accessory from being lost in the mass of others, it's essential to leave some free space in the interior.

2. Monochrome walls, neutral floor
It's not advisable to focus on wall decoration in eclecticism; instead, keep them monochrome. First, it will lighten the interior, and secondly, paintings or interesting mirrors will likely appear on the walls. Do not limit yourself to white – among furniture, textiles, or accessories, there is likely a color that you want to emphasize more than others. Make the walls one tone lighter or darker than the chosen shade, and the interior will become more cohesive and expressive. Whether it's paint or wallpaper is a matter of preference, but if you choose wallpaper, go for textile or flock wallpaper. These materials better convey the depth of color – take a look at the Italreflexes Empire Dream or Omexco Horizons wallpapers.

For floor finishing, follow the rule of 'dark base': classical color schemes in interior design are another effective way to unite disparate elements. In this case, the Lithos Vivid Barrique solid wood plank would be an excellent choice – it's neutral in tone and doesn't draw too much attention.

3. Unify furniture through shared characteristics, add minimalism
To make furniture from different eras look like a unified ensemble, they should share some noticeable common features such as color and texture of upholstery or the same set of cushions. In an eclectic interior, it's crucial to designate a space for furniture with simple forms and neutral colors – any style is loyal to minimalism.

Eclectic design can also be seen in individual items, such as when classic-shaped furniture is complemented with upholstery featuring modern patterns, like the Providence chair. Other pieces in the eclectic style can be found in the design and interior decoration center's product catalog 'Expobuild on Nakhimovskiy'. We have selected the most stylish eclectic items.

A bright-colored thermoplastic chandelier with a simple shape will add expressiveness to an eclectic interior without clashing with other items. The velvet sofa with piqué elements should have curved legs, but instead of these – elegant ones like interwoven steel, which make the sofa look airy. The irony of Philippe Starck with the style of Louis XVI can be seen in a chair with classical forms made from modern polycarbonate material. The stylized classicism and scattering of colors in this chair are created for a very feminine eclecticism. Stylized candles, crystal, and notes of romantic era: such a chandelier is an excellent solution for an eclectic living room. Modernity and Art Deco – why not? A weightless chair will beautify small spaces and survive neighborly color combinations. The antique David in silver – what would Michelangelo say about it? A vibrant velvet chair is a strong reason to love eclecticism with your whole heart.

When creating an eclectic interior, the key is not to get carried away and stray into kitsch, which is often confused with eclecticism. It's important to remember that kitsch is always eclecticism, but never the other way around.

4. Color palette – a burst of colors, rich hues
In eclecticism, elements from classical styles are always present, and what's important is that colorful classical art in history is rare, while for eclectic interiors such freedom is perfectly acceptable. This is clearly demonstrated by the Luxury sofa – a successful combination of saturated pink and classic piqué.

Balance the interior with white, black, gray, and even the most vibrant setting will become harmonious and balanced. You can add color to an interior using a proven method – decorative cushions. Choose cushions that reflect the motif of one of the styles present in your interior, or opt for ironic models: humor in cushions with covers like Fast Ride, Vincent Von Cat, or Classy will mask any rough edges of an eclectic interior.

5. Include classical chandeliers in the lighting system
In eclecticism, it is characteristic to use eye-catching classical light fixtures as the compositional center of an interior. Take a look at the Masca Argento chandelier and Gramercy Home pendant light. These are often combined with built-in ceiling lighting.

It's better to avoid mixing light fixtures made from different materials in the same interior: for example, aged brass would look terrible next to glossy chrome. As with combining furniture from different eras, combine lighting so that there's something in common between them – for example, a curve or shape.