Eclectic Style: How to Design an Eclectic Interior

Looking to break the rules and mix things up? Eclectic style might just be the perfect match for your home. Bold, expressive, and deeply personal, eclectic interiors blend different design influences, textures, and eras into one cohesive (but totally unrestrictive) look. Whether you’re drawn to vintage finds, modern art, or globally inspired patterns, eclectic style gives you the freedom to bring it all together, your way.

What Is Eclectic Style?

Eclectic style is all about curated contrast. It’s not random or chaotic — instead, it’s a thoughtful blend of styles, periods, colour palettes, and textures that reflect your personality. You might see a boho rug beneath a mid-century chair, or ornate mouldings paired with industrial lighting. The secret? Balance, repetition, and a confident eye for design.

Origins of Eclectic Interior Design

The term “eclectic” comes from the Greek word eklektikos, meaning “to select from various sources.” In design, this style took shape in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, when architects and decorators began mixing historical references in a single project. Over time, eclectic interiors evolved into an intentional mishmash of styles — part vintage, part global, part contemporary.

Famous Designers Known for Eclectic Style

Designers like Kelly Wearstler, Justina Blakeney, and Jonathan Adler are icons in the world of eclectic interiors. Their work is bold, fearless, and full of personality — often blending high-end glamour with quirky elements, lush patterns, and global artefacts.

Where Eclectic Style Is Popular

Eclectic design is loved across the globe, especially in urban spaces and creative communities. You’ll often see eclectic interiors in converted lofts, historic apartments, and bohemian homes — spaces where creativity, character, and contrast are celebrated.

designed by OKOS KOTI 

How to Create an Eclectic Style Interior

The beauty of eclectic style is that it welcomes individuality, but to keep it from feeling cluttered, there’s an art to layering. Use repetition in colour, form, or texture to create visual harmony — and don’t forget negative space!

Walls & Woodwork in Eclectic Style Interiors

Eclectic interiors give you room to play:

• Paint: Soft neutrals can provide a calm canvas, or go bold with rich jewel tones, dramatic blacks, or deep blues.

• Wallpaper: Think large-scale florals, tropical prints, or vintage patterns to add impact.

• Feature Walls: Gallery walls, murals, or even painted arches can bring interest and contrast.

• Woodwork: Painted mouldings, exposed brick, or reclaimed wood add warmth and character.

Flooring in Eclectic Style

Mixing textures is key. Choose flooring that supports the room’s personality:

• Wood: Natural or engineered wood floors are a popular base.

• Natural Rugs: Sisal, jute, or layered wool rugs add depth and soften the space.

• Vintage or Patterned Rugs: Persian, tribal, or global-inspired rugs are often statement pieces in eclectic homes.

• Tiles: Patterned encaustic tiles work beautifully in hallways, bathrooms, or kitchens.

Lighting in Eclectic Style Interiors

Lighting is where eclectic style shines:

• Mix & Match: Use a mix of styles — a modern floor lamp, vintage chandelier, and rattan pendant can all live in the same room.

• Materials: Brass, ceramic, glass, and natural fibres all work beautifully.

• Decorative Touches: Choose sculptural lamps, colourful shades, or mismatched wall lights to enhance the playful vibe.

Furniture in Eclectic Style

Think curated, not cluttered:

• Style: Blend eras — pair a velvet Art Deco sofa with a mid-century coffee table.

• Materials: Wood, rattan, velvet, glass, and leather can all coexist in the same room.

• Size & Shape: Combine curvy lines with sharp silhouettes to add visual interest.

Soft Furnishings for an Eclectic Interior

This is where texture and colour come to life:

• Curtains: Go bold with patterned or velvet drapes, or light and airy with linen.

• Blinds: Roman shades or bamboo blinds can be layered under curtains for interest.

• Cushions & Throws: Mix prints, colours, and textures — ikat, stripes, florals, or tassels are all welcome here.

Art & Mirrors in Eclectic Style Homes

Your art should tell a story:

• Artwork: Combine modern prints, vintage portraits, global art, or personal photos.

• Mirrors: Ornate gold, industrial metal, or boho rattan — choose what fits your vibe.

• Display: Gallery walls, leaning frames, or oversized single pieces add drama and creativity.

designed by OKOS KOTI 

Eclectic Style: Holistic Design Tips

Feng Shui in Eclectic Interiors

Although eclectic homes are layered, it’s still important to allow energy to flow. Avoid overfilling corners and use grounding colours or earth elements to balance busy spaces.

🌿 Biophilic Touches

Plants are a must in eclectic interiors. Layer them on bookshelves, hang them in macrame holders, or pop a large palm in a corner for instant life and height.

🕯️ Aroma & Energy

Use essential oils like patchouli, frankincense, or orange to enhance the warm, inviting mood. Diffusers or incense help create a high-vibe, sensory-rich atmosphere.

Eclectic Style: Final Thoughts

Eclectic style is about freedom, confidence, and creativity. It encourages you to express yourself fully, without having to choose just one design lane. With thoughtful curation, you can create a space that’s deeply personal, rich in character, and unique.

Whether you’re layering vintage finds with modern design, mixing patterns and textures, or just learning to trust your instincts, eclectic interiors let you tell your story—your way.

Stay tuned as we continue our series on interior design styles. Next up: Contemporary Style: How To Design A Contemporary Interior

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