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Relax and Enjoy an Extreme Style Mix
Start With What You Have, Add What You Love, and the Result Can Be Beautiful
When beginning a room design people can often get caught up in trying to define their exact style: traditional, contemporary, cottage, transitional. This can prove to be limiting. An alternative approach to designing a space can be to start with favorite pieces already owned. Afterwards add in only items that are equally appreciated and enjoy the mix that ensues — which may be an extreme style mix. As these rooms will show, this approach can add up to beautiful.
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by betsy burnham
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| The style mix is not initially apparent in this room, perhaps because of the beautiful symmetry created by the ceiling beams and drapery panels. But looking closer, the traditional mantel is in strong contrast to a contemporary coffee table, while the chairs flanking the fireplace feature traditional tufting on one and paired down modern lines on the another. |
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The extreme mix is seen here through the parsons entry table sitting below a baroque gold framed mirror. Add in bright sculptural lamps, and a charming vignette is the result.
by Amy Lau Design
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In this example a vintage 1954 Bear Chair designed by Hans J. Wegner is paired with a sculptural tribal side table and Kilim rug.
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by SFGIRLBYBAY
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| Tulip-inspired chairs pulled up to an antique table creates an extreme style mix that works. The approach is continued by placing a modern white bookcase below a worn chalkboard. |
by betsy burnham
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Two feminine pagoda chandeliers create interesting contrast to the Miro print, black bookcase featuring strong and simple lines, and the large glass-top table.
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A Fortuny silk pendant hung above a sleek white table and metallic leather chairs combine styles and eras with success.
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| Modern abstract paintings, a minimal pendant fixture and parsons table are mixed with an antique sideboard and a wide range of chair styles. |
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| In a traditional room featuring beautiful stained millwork and a farmhouse table, industrial white and metallic pendants create the interesting mix. |
by CWB Architects
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In this transitional design, a modern abstract painting and glass chandelier are mixed with traditional furniture and a classic stone mantel.
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by Cristi Holcombe
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| A mix of accessories featuring an extreme range of styles can add a lot to a design. Here an earthy driftwood lamp is paired with a modern white ceramic accent, wooden balls placed in a wire basket and linen pillows featuring traditional prints in a bold Kelly green. |
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| The dramatic hood brings a strong industrial element to a kitchen embracing country elements: a ceramic rooster, the butcher block island and red stools.
Next: Browse more photos of eclectic designs |
Comments
annabanana1992 I love this idea book. I think this "style" is my style. I have several inherited antiques that I never want to part with, but I love modern design and bright colors. Now, how to make it happen???
2 years ago · Like
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btlover2 I'm with you, Annabanana. I think this is me all the way. It's been tough trying to figure out how to mix them properly, isn't it? I love so many styles and eras and mixing them seems right. Tricky though.
2 years ago · Like
btlover2 I meant "It's tough trying to figure out how to mix them."
2 years ago · Like
Molto Bene Studios I think the people who are successful at this have an eye for what shapes, colors and textures are going to work together. I love this look. I learned a lot by looking at each of these pictures and seeing what the different pieces had in common.
2 years ago · Like
Suzy Pierce Amazing- So inspiring...
2 years ago · Like
ellie48 I love mixing 'extreme' styles. And I realize a lot of my clients don't understand it. So I don't always get to show it. I don't want to insult anyone. Mixing styles is so interesting, exciting. A room of mixed styles can make me smile. Thanks for a great post.
2 years ago · Like
Rebekah Zaveloff This is a wonderful ideabook Janell! This is my favorite style and it's a non-style. Love all the rooms and flattered to be included among them.
2 years ago · Like
Andrea love this style too..i think the way to achieve it is by keeping it clean and simple..displaying your treasures as work of art.
2 years ago · Like
Camille Fantastic ideabook! I pretty much love all of these rooms, but the office takes the cake.
2 years ago · Like
Danielle Great ideabook...this is definitely a style I resonate with!
2 years ago · Like
Amy Lambert Lee Beautiful! I love these combinations, they look like they were collected over time and not styled in a day. I think the story is more interesting that way :)
2 years ago · Like
lynn waller what a great article, the photos were stunning. Looking forward to seeing more of your stuff! 
2 years ago · Like
luckykats Hallelujah! I've just found my "look"!!
2 years ago · Like
Mona Love the "Bear Chair"
2 years ago · Like
seamus This idea book comes just in time. I am purchasing new living room furniture and have had such a hard time identifying my style. Now I know it is a non-style!
2 years ago · Like
Ideabook published on March 12, 2011.
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