When it comes to home design, one of the first questions I ask my clients is, “What style are you drawn to?” More often than not, the answer isn’t just one style—it’s a mix! And that’s where the magic happens. Blending styles is what gives a home its personality and makes it feel uniquely yours.
Don’t Be Afraid to Mix It Up
You don’t have to commit to just one design style to create a beautiful home. In fact, most people are drawn to more than one look. Whether you love the clean lines of modern design, the timeless elegance of traditional styles, or the cozy warmth of rustic elements, you can combine these influences to create a cohesive, personalized space.
Common Design Styles to Work With
Here are the three most common styles I see clients gravitate toward:
– Modern (whether it’s mid-century or contemporary): This style often features clean lines, minimalism, and sleek finishes. Think glass, metals, and uncluttered spaces.
– Traditional: This style leans on classic forms, rich details, and a neutral or muted color palette. It’s cozy, inviting, and timeless with elements like paneled walls, traditional tile, and antique or timeless furniture pieces.
– Rustic: With a focus on natural materials like wood and stone, this style brings warmth and texture to any space. It’s often more casual, with a focus on creating a lived-in, inviting feel.
Blending Your Styles
So, what if you love modern design, but your spouse prefers rustic? Or maybe you adore traditional elements, but want to add a more contemporary edge? The good news is, blending styles is not only possible, but can also create a one-of-a-kind look that truly reflects your taste as a couple.
Here’s the key: When you mix styles, pick a category or a few elements where you’ll stay consistent, and then allow yourself to mix in different styles in other areas. This helps keep things from feeling too chaotic or mismatched.
For example:
– You could choose modern lighting and wood tones to give your home a sleek, updated vibe, while mixing in traditional tile and metal finishes for a nod to classic design.
– If you prefer rustic furniture pieces but love contemporary color palettes, you can balance these two by incorporating natural textures like wood or leather with modern touches like streamlined furniture.
HOT TIP: Mood Boards Are Your Friend
When mixing styles, creating a mood board is a game-changer. It allows you to see all of your elements together visually before committing to your final selections. A mood board helps you confidently mix different textures, finishes, and styles, and ensures that the overall design is cohesive. It’s the best way to make sure you and your spouse are on the same page with your vision!
Remember, your home should be a reflection of both of you, so embrace the process of blending your styles. You’ll create a home that’s uniquely yours—one that tells the story of your combined tastes and lifestyle.
What styles are you drawn to? And do you love mixing them together? Comment below!
