What Is Eclectic Décor? And How to Ace This Dynamic Design Trend

kitchen with marble and tile island in contrasting colors — Photo:
Christopher Stark for Jeff Andrews Design

If there’s one word that best characterizes eclectic design, it’s unexpected. If you’ve heard the term used to describe a broad assortment of spaces, it’s because eclectic design doesn’t refer to one specific style. Eclectic design is fundamentally about mixing and matching a wide range of décor to create a space that is surprising, personal, and visually interesting.

"Eclectic design is all about creating a harmonious blend of various styles, textures, and colors to reflect a unique and personalized aesthetic," says Erin Lichy, an interior designer and founder of Homegirl. It’s a style that brings balance and cohesion, blending vintage pieces with new finds, bold hues with soft shades, and structure with fluidity.

The beauty of eclectic design is that it looks different for everyone. There are no hard and fast rules, just helpful strategies to draw forth your unique style based on your personality and taste. When you’re ready to take the leap and start incorporating some unpredictability into your home décor, consider these designer-approved tips.

Erin Lichy, interior designer and founder of Homegirl
Lindye Galloway, founder and chief creative officer of Lindye Galloway Studio
Jeff Andrews, principal designer and founder of Jeff Andrews Design

01 of 09

Begin With a Neutral Base

neutral marble bar area in living room — Christopher Stark for Jeff Andrews Design

One of the most universal tips for creating an eclectic home décor style is to begin with a neutral base, which serves as a blank canvas for the rest of your pieces and ideas. Neutral, however, does not necessarily mean plain. "I suggest starting small by incorporating raked plaster or other neutral details before layering the space with eye-catching elements such as sculptural lighting for some added depth," says Lindye Galloway, founder and chief creative officer of Lindye Galloway Studio.

02 of 09

Add Pops of Color

bright orange sofa in a living room — Courtesy of Erin Lichy

A neutral base allows experimenting with color in plenty of unexpected ways. While throw pillows and blankets in your living room are fun and easy to style, don’t forget about other rooms of your house, too. For example, if you’ve got sleek and simple appliances in your kitchen, you can incorporate color in other ways. "Original, edgy, or vintage décor elements such as statement lighting” are great choices, as is a colorful backsplash, cabinets, and decorative hardware, says Jeff Andrews, founder of Jeff Andrews Design.

03 of 09

Embrace Patterns

neutral living room with patterned rug and walls — Courtesy of Shade Degges

Patterns can be intimidating initially, but thoughtfully chosen patterns can instantly make any room feel more lively and compelling. "Don’t shy away from patterns," says Lichy. "Whether it’s geometric, floral, or abstract, mixing patterns can add dynamic energy to your décor." The trick to using patterns without making the space feel overwhelming is sticking to a common color theme that ties them together.

04 of 09

Play With Wallpaper

eclectic office with a desk and textured wallpaper — Christopher Stark for Jeff Andrews Design

Wallpaper is a great way to create a dynamic look and feel in any room. Start with soft, neutral walls, then choose a moodier pattern to offset those softer colors, adding charm and character, suggests Galloway.

If you’re afraid to commit to permanent wallpaper or don’t have the budget to have it professionally installed, opt for peel-and-stick wallpaper instead. It’s inexpensive, easy to install, and can last for several years.

05 of 09

Contrast Is Key

high contrast dining room with black table and chandelier — Christopher Stark for Jeff Andrews Design

Creating an eclectic décor style isn’t just about choosing unique pieces; it’s about the contrast between colors, shapes, materials, and styles. "Don’t be afraid to experiment with different periods and styles when you set out to design a home," says Andrews. By incorporating contrasting textures and prints, you can turn an otherwise plain room into an interesting space.

06 of 09

Use Statement Lighting

statement chandelier over a dining table — Courtesy of Erin Lichy

Lighting is an easily overlooked aspect of interior design and home décor, but playing with lighting is a powerful way to contribute to a more eclectic style. "Invest in statement lighting pieces, like chandeliers, floor lamps, or unique pendant lights," says Lichy. Choosing the right lighting creates a focal point in the room and helps set the tone of the space.

07 of 09

Combine the Old With the New

eclectic bathroom with blue cabinets and tile — Christopher Stark for Jeff Andrews Design

For Andrews, creating eclectic décor is all about collecting pieces with special meaning over time instead of buying everything all at once. "Collecting and editing go hand in hand," Andrews says. "We fall in love with certain objects as though they are old friends." Even if a piece may not necessarily fall within the aesthetics of your home, Andrews recommends trying to find a way to make it work in your design story.

08 of 09

Consider Your Cabinets

reeded wooden cabinetry in living room — Courtesy of Sam Frost

Cabinets are functional, but they can also be a beautiful reflection of your personal style and décor. Galloway says they can act as a chic accent piece if given proper attention. "Swapping out your simple wood cabinetry for ones with texture, such as reeding, gives the space a touch that feels fresh, yet timeless." Remember, design is often in the details!

09 of 09

Integrate Greenery

eclectic living room with sofas, blue carpet, a painting — Courtesy of Erin Lichy

Plants are literally a breath of fresh air in any room, and they help bridge the gap between indoors and outdoors. Adding plants to your home adds to an eclectic style, especially when you choose indoor plants that come in unique or interesting shapes and colors. "Different types and sizes of plants can also add to the visual diversity and warmth of the room," says Lichy.

If you have a brown thumb or don’t want to take on the task of caring for plants, consider investing in high-quality artificial plants. They can make the same visual impact with zero maintenance.

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