Style Secret: A Clean BackgroundWorking the eclectic look is like seating guests at a dinner party: Put the chatterboxes next to the shy types and everyone's happy. This style begs for a blend of strong, singular pieces, so keep the backdrop — walls, floors, windows — simple in order to avoid competition. Road-test it: Err on the side of neutral and build the background from there. You'll rarely go wrong with pure white walls in an eclectic space, but if they look too bland for you, use an unassuming hue such as chamois, smoky gray or pale blue. Still not enough? Choose a color that's already in the room and try it out on an accent wall or on the ceiling. Or you could just hang more artwork, mount colorful window treatments and throw down a vibrant rug — all quick fixes that are easy to reverse as the room evolves.
Charmean Neithart