When decorating your home, there are plenty of pre-matched furniture sets you can choose from at your local retail stores if you want your living space to look just like everyone else’s. Or you can choose your own pieces to mix and match, creating a unique and personal design. Learn how to mix furniture styles like an expert with the tips below.
1. Start with a Simple Color Palette
an unforgettable accent chair display designs in both color and texture isobel club chair
Before putting anything into a room, it helps to have a vision or plan for what you want the end result to look like. Even though you may not have the exact furniture you plan to use just yet, you can still visualize the overall look. In your vision, is there a theme or color palette? If not, take some time to consider which colors you most want in the room.
It’s best to keep the color palette simple when mixing furniture styles because it helps bring disparate items together cohesively. For example, if you like contrast, you can choose paint and carpet that is white or very light, then collect furniture pieces that are black. Although the furniture will not be the same style, the unified colors will help it look intentional. After you have established a neutral base, you can add in pops of color with throw pillows and other decorations.
2. Choose a Theme
A flow of mixed decor and colors gives personalities around Isobel sofa
Keep in mind that while some styles are easy to mix, others may clash. Try to choose a general theme and stick with it, or choose two styles that complement each other. For example, if you want your room to look modern and minimalist, you may want to avoid rustic or antique pieces. However, when it comes to design, rules are more of a guideline. If you have an item you love that seems out of place, make it a focal point to create interest rather than dissonance.
3. Get Inspired
Check out mood boards on our Pinterest!
If you are having trouble choosing a theme, take a step back and look for ideas. Just because you want a unique look doesn’t mean you can’t get inspiration from things that have already been done. Think about what makes you feel happy and relaxed. Is there a way you can incorporate color and texture to create that feeling in your home and finish it off by mixing furniture styles you love?
4. Size, Shape, & Finish
Pick something that tells a story! Rhodes Mid-Century Modern Tufted Arm Chair
After you’ve chosen a theme and color scheme, it’s time to round up the furniture you want to put in the room. Consider whether the size and shape make sense in the room and with the other pieces, as well as the color of the finish on wood pieces. Are you willing and able to refinish an item that doesn’t match? If not, try to find pieces with the same finish from the beginning.
5. Use Different Materials
Unique personality in harmony. Isobel 3 piece seating in cobalt blue.
The materials you use all around the room will impact the way it comes together. When learning how to mix furniture, you may be tempted to aim for every piece to be unique. In some cases, this can work, but it is often wise to choose a few items that make a set and then add in new elements from there. For example, a dining room table may have four matching chairs for the sides, and two in a different style for the ends. Or a sofa and armchair may come together, but the end tables and coffee table have variety.
You can also mix up the materials used to make the furniture and other decor in the room. A neutral base is wise when it comes to the material as well as color, but adding in unexpected elements can elevate the style. Toss colorful throw pillows of various textures on a solid colored couch, or accent the room with fun lamps, vases, or artwork.
Get more ideas, tips, and inspiration for your home on the RST Brands Blog.
