Eclectic design started as an architectural style in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Many types of “revivalist” styles were growing in popularity at the time, like gothic and neoclassical. Architects began to freely mix elements from these different revival styles, and thus the eclectic style was born.

These new eclectic exteriors called for eclectic interiors to match. This new interior design aesthetic focused on mixing styles, but also on displaying the wealth of the families commissioning these new spaces. As a result, many eclectic spaces became inherently lush, layered, and lavish.

These days, eclectic may very well be one of the least well-understood design aesthetics. It’s not uncommon to see chaotic, poorly organized, or clashing spaces improperly described as eclectic.

While this may simply be a tongue-in-cheek reference to the wilder side of true eclectic design, it’s also misleading. Chaos and clashing have nothing to do with eclectic spaces. In fact, intentionality and balance are at the heart of well-executed eclectic design.

Vision is Vital

Perhaps more so than any other style, eclectic design demands a well-defined vision. The style is all about combing elements from many aesthetics. As such, without a clear vision, the space can easily become muddled.

When planning your eclectic design, you must decide on:

1.The layout

2.The unifying concept

3.The color palette

To better understand these three elements, we’ll go into each in a little more detail.

1. The Layout

Take stock of the largest furniture and design elements you want to incorporate and decide ahead of time how they will fit together in the room. Once you have the layout settled, you’ll have a much better idea of what extras and decorative elements the space can comfortably fit.

2. The unifying concept

With eclectic style, your unifying element could be many different things. Finish, pattern, shape, or texture can all be applied successfully as a unifier across the design. Whatever concept you choose, it should feature prominently in many of the biggest and boldest elements in the space.

3. The Color Palette.

Choosing a core color palette is a key way to maintain cohesion within your design.

Generally speaking, use a neutral shade as a foundation color. Then choose one or two main accent colors to layer on top. Maintaining a neutral shade as part of your color scheme is an effective way to ensure all your bright, unique details stand out.

Innovation and Uniqueness

Once you’ve got your vision hammered out, it’s time to have fun with the whimsical details that eclectic style is known for.

Many of the best eclectic designs use common items and materials in unconventional ways. Such innovative re-purposing speaks to the heart of this design aesthetic, and its predilection for upending convention.

Another key eclectic element is the incorporation of unique, handmade, and personally valuable items. It’s not uncommon for treasured souvenirs to be featured prominently in the décor, or to have large-scale original artwork as a focal point. These details are what gives eclectic design it’s highly personal appeal.

When you’re incorporating these whimsical elements, be sure to keep you editor’s eye open. Overstuffing your space with too many knick-knacks can make it feel tacky and less intentional.

Balance and Symmetry

Many eclectic designs apply bi-lateral symmetry, closely mirroring one half of the room with the other. However, you don’t have to be this precise if it doesn’t work for your space.

The most important part of balance to remember is that every element must feel purposeful. If you have a beautiful throw pillow you want to show off, but it’s barely visible against the couch upholstery, it loses its sense of place and prominence.

Because balancing all the fun colors, lines, patterns, textures, etc. is one of the biggest challenges of eclectic style, consider keeping your wildest design choices confined to items like pillows, rugs, or smaller artwork. You may need to shuffle things around or remove pieces entirely to get the balance just right. It’s much easier to remove a rug than it is to re-wallpaper or dismantle a sectional.

Choosing an Eclectic Door

As the portal into your new eclectic space, the right door is essential for setting the right tone. One of the best ways to channel the free spirit of eclectic is with sliding barn doors.

The unique sliding mechanism of a BarnCraft modern barn door is perfect for a whimsical and unconventional space. They also come in dozens of styles that span the full spectrum of design aesthetics, ensuring that regardless of the elements you’ve chosen to mix into your space, there’s a BarnCraft door that’s a perfect compliment.

Get in touch with us any time by phone at 713.400.6626 or by e-mail at info@barndoorz.com. We cannot wait to help you design your perfect eclectic space.