Art of Mixing and Matching Furniture Styles
The world of interior designing is all about experimenting. Until you don’t experiment, you really don’t know what you can achieve. Also, it’s the secret to creating a personalised and dynamic space of your own. We’ve already spoken about mixing textures in interior design. However, have you ever stopped and thought about what mixing and matching furniture can do?
Well, it’s surely an art and a very unexplored one. When you mix and match furniture, you combine different styles and textures to create a space that reflects your personality. For this reason, a lot of people these days have been combining contemporary and vintage pieces in order to create an eclectic vibe.
Mastering the Art of Mixing Furniture Styles
Balance & Contrast is Key
When it comes to mixing styles, balance is crucial. In interior designing, balance is everything. Even when you’re pairing modern and traditional pieces, your aim should be to create visual interest without overwhelming the space. Adding too many pieces of furniture can only make your space look like a mess rather than a cohesive harmony. Another trick is to use contrasting elements in order to create visual harmony. For example, a contemporary sofa looks great with a rustic coffee table or vice-versa. This not just makes the aesthetic look well-balanced but also speaks a lot about your taste.
Consider Scale & Proportion
When you’re adding furniture belonging to different themes, it’s important that the proportions of each piece complement each other. The size of every piece of furniture should be well-balanced within a room. If you’re working on a small space, large furniture can make the space look smaller. Instead opt for smaller pieces of furniture that create an illusion of spaciousness. On the other hand, if you have a large space, don’t overcrowd it with tiny pieces. Scale and proportion is an art and should be well-understood.
Play with Patterns & Textures
If there’s one way by which you can create depth in your space is by incorporating various patterns and textures. Think leather and softer fabrics or glass with wood. Different textures don’t just complement each other but also create a rich, tactile experience. Layering is another way in which you can tie up different furniture styles together. For example, a contemporary headboard looks great on a vintage bed. If you plan to layer textures, it’s important to use the right furnishings. The idea is to create a rich and inviting atmosphere, not a harsh and disproportionate one.
Functionality is still the most important factor
In this entire process of mixing and matching furniture, don’t forget about functionality. It’s above everything else. While the furniture you choose must look good, it must also play its part. When you’re choosing an office chair for a desk, get something that is ergonomic. Getting a chair which does not offer back support is a major blunder you will be making. Even when you’re getting a coffee table, check if it offers hidden storage. This especially works if you have a small space.
Showcase your collections, décor pieces, etc
Personalising your space is all about making it a reflection of who you really are. Consider adding art and accessories from your past travel to your space. Adding different artwork also gives it a rich and unique feel. Use art of contrasting colours to draw attention to a particular space. You can also add cushions, throws and vases to enhance the overall aesthetic and add a pop of colour. When you balance different styles, textures and materials, your space becomes a true reflection of your individuality.
Mix Old & New
There is a vast difference in the furniture available back in the day and the furniture available today. Old pieces of furniture are more solid, especially the vintage ones. Thus, when you’re remodelling your home or entire aesthetic, don’t discard your old pieces of furniture. Thoughtfully consider pairing vintage pieces with modern ones. For instance, if the entire theme of your living room is contemporary, you can consider adding an heirloom armchair which has probably been passed down generations. However, when you’re mixing styles, always remember less is more. At no point, you should be overdoing it.
Conclusion
Though there is no strict rulebook when it comes to mixing and matching furniture, it’s always important to be mindful. Create a space that expresses your individuality and makes you feel comfortable. Our interior design courses offer a comprehensive curriculum that cover everything from foundational principles to advanced design concepts. You will also get to learn a lot about different interior design styles and themes.
