The Art of Mix-and-Match Style
The creative interior: Here's how to get that perfectly unpredictable look just right
I'm a Designer & Color Consultant specializing in interior and exterior color selection. I also create Design Plans for DIYers. I'd love to help you through my eDesign Service {and it doesn't matter where you live!}. Visit my blog at http://www.porterhousedesigns.com/colorsizzle.
I'm a Designer & Color Consultant specializing in interior and exterior... More »
There is something to be said for flawless symmetry and identical furnishings in a space. However, I think rooms with the most character have the least uniformity. It can be so much more interesting walking into a room that showcases the unexpected and unpredictable. If you choose to go this route, you'll have way more flexibility in your design, but remember that careful coordination and some balance is key. You don't want to end up with a space that is uncomfortable or perplexing. Here are 8 great examples of how to mix and match:
|
by RLH Studio
»
|
| A nice way to mix and match furnishings is to unify them with a common hue. In this space, the lamps differ in height and style, but the color green is what allows them to "speak" to each other. |
On either side of this bed, you'll see that the nightstands and artwork are different. However, equity is created because the height on both sides is the same. This type of symmetry is not always necessary, but visual balance does help to make a room feel more comfortable for some people.
| |
| When several chairs are required for a large dining table, it's always nice to break up the monotony with host and hostess chairs at both ends. Here, two chairs in a striking shade of red create interest and reinforce the red accents in the space. |
| |
| Pairing a long, slender lamp with a short chunky one is a bold move. However, this is the type of visual tension that mixing and matching brings to a space, and I think that makes the entire room more intriguing. |
| |
| Who said that a bed needs a lamp on both sides? This is a rule that is meant to be broken, especially if the bed is all yours. |
by Kim Metheny
»
These mismatched lounge chairs work very well because they are the same size. Sameness in scale and comfort is important when using unlike furniture pieces in close proximity — especially chairs, where guests will always race for the most comfortable seat.
| A whimsical, casual space is perfect for mixing it up. This fun sports bar seems meant for a little playful mixing and matching. The bar stools are all the same size, but the different upholstery makes them extra cool. |
Mixing up lighting fixtures is a sure way to overcome that strict, uniform hotel-lobby look. If you have the opportunity to use multiple hanging fixtures, select a diverse group. You can always unify them by choosing the same finish, but the look won't be so humdrum.
More:
Mix It Up: Ideas for a New Dining Room Style
Design Talk: Eclectic vs. Collected
Mix and Match Your Bedding
More:
Mix It Up: Ideas for a New Dining Room Style
Design Talk: Eclectic vs. Collected
Mix and Match Your Bedding
Ideabook published on Oct. 30, 2011.
What are you working on?
News From Our Partners
Latest Ideabooks
People found the photos in this ideabook after searching for:
View over a million photos:
I like these types of idea-books with tips, because for most of us, mixing and matching is a reality and sometimes we don't get it right.