Design styles in homes today are taking on a more eclectic, nonconformist look. In the past we used a more established design choice, such as ‘an Urban Barn room' look. In my opinion these ‘looks' were stifling, and uncreative. There was nothing to suggest that we were not cookie-cutter people, who live with the exact same homes. The eclectic looks of home designs today are not as difficult as some may suggest. The desired effect is to create interest and diversity in your home, and to be able to portray your personality through style, design and decor in your home. This is done through producing a theme where one item compliments the other, not about clashing pieces. Remember to pick up furniture and décor that connects to you, not a magazine. There are no more rules, remember its nonconformist so if you do not have an immediate reaction to a piece, it's out. Think of your particular needs in terms of size and colors. Then move forward, trust your instincts, proceed slowly and with confidence.



The eclectic home is filled with architectural pieces saved to see another day, and aged furniture with character and peeling paint. Antique and flea market finds add something unexpected, yet are still useful. Rust covered metal and old wooden crates can be sided with brass, and chrome, geometric designs, and straight lines. Some people are naturally creative. These enthusiasts often recycle the old items into new items. These people think the possibilities are endless. They take a look at their environment and imagine the possibilities. If you are not one of these people, try to think outside the box. Look at objects from different perspectives and angles, consider the location in which it will rest, the lighting, and most of all your relationship to it. If the object ‘talks to you' you will certainly find a place in your home where it will work. So trust your instincts. Without looking ‘junkie', old shutters can work as a great letter sorter, or message board. Decorate them, mount them on the wall, and enjoy. Old wooden drawers can be a great design project as well; they can be hung lengthwise and used as shadow boxes, or shelving. Old door moldings are great to display plates or photos, and mismatched chairs can be brought together with a common coat of paint, design, or even pillows.

Paint color is the easiest and cheapest way to create style to your designs. You can go traditional with a neutral color on all of the walls, or you mix it up by changing one wall's color, or even splitting the wall in half horizontally with two different paint colors. Whatever you choose remember the walls are to compliment the décor not over-shadow it. Another tip is to try to use oversized designs on large areas, such as paisley wallpaper. This will also help to split up the room to get the eyes attention. If your furniture is ornate, use simple modern bold designs for the upholstery. Mixing various textures gives a beautiful and sensual effect to the room as well. Rich velvets with silks and wools can be the basis of your design style so use each one to convey your personality.