Premiere Plus Realty Co.
Jennifer Johansen, Premiere Plus Realty Co.Phone: (239) 450-0822
Email: [email protected]

Combining the Traditional and the Eclectic: Tips for Making Home Design More Memorable

by Jennifer Johansen 04/24/2022

There's something about mixing two styles together that can add a lot of spice to a room. Unexpected touches and accents add the personality that people remember. Yet there's a danger to this approach because it's relatively easy to go overboard. Finding the right balance will have everything to do with the impression you create. 

Eclectic and Traditional Defined

Eclectic design is defined as bringing together different styles and creating harmony between them. Uniting everything means playing each piece off one another in a way that works to the room's advantage.

At first glance, eclectic is the complete opposite of traditional design. The latter style focuses on comfort and classic décor more than patterns, intricate details or textures. By definition, it's not risky. In fact, having that kind of juxtaposition in the same room or home can make it even more appealing to residents and guests alike.

However, one style is likely going to dominate the other. It might be easier to choose traditional base pieces and then jazz them up with eclectic design accents. 

Start With Core Colors 

The core colors of a room are important no matter what design you want. For example, choose a red couch in a classic design against a stark white background, accessorized with shag pillows in white. The patterns draw the eye to the color and allow the furniture to be the focal point. This is standard for eclectic rooms, as the idea is to keep the walls neutral and add interest in other parts of the room. 

Explore as Much as Possible

The whole point of eclectic is to remove as many limits as possible. However, not every limit can be removed in terms of complementary design. Evaluate how something like an industrial lamp would stand out next to a traditional overstuffed armchair or how an egg chair would pair with a traditional bed frame. These kinds of design decisions can go a long way to bring a room to life. 

Keep in mind that with design, most rules were made to be broken. While these tips are born from years of trial and error, there are always exceptions to be made.

About the Author
Author

Jennifer Johansen

Jennifer is passionate about the Real Estate business, and has been involved in related family businesses in construction, architectural millwork, and finance for 20 years. She and her husband relocated to Naples, from New York, 10 years ago, although her family has owned property on Marco Island since the 1980's. She has a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology and a Dual Master's Degree in Counseling and Education. She has acquired many necessary skills that are useful in Real Estate from being in the field of Counseling for many years. She holds the belief that building rapport is vital to helping her clients have a positive experience, while achieving their goals. She is very thorough and detail oriented, and has formed many close relationships with professionals in related fields, such as law, title insurance, home inspectors and other contractors. She aims to offer concierge- level service to her clients at every price point. When time permits, she enjoys spending time with family and friends. Having grown up on the South Shore of Long Island, and enjoying her summers on Fire Island, she loves any activity related to salt water, boating and the beach. Additional hobbies include gardening, art, and studying nutrition, wellness and naturopathy. She is knowledgeable about Naples and Marco Island Real Estate, in estate areas, golf/gated communities, and waterfront properties. She is a member of The Naples Board of Realtors and Marco Island Area Association of Realtors.