You know the excitement you feel when you come across a beautifully designed room that inspires you? I experienced that exact feeling this week when I encountered the photo below, featuring an eclectic Denver loft designed by Vintage Renewal. A certain magic seems to fill this interior with such confidence that it’s palpable! An earthy striped rug, a tufted couch, a modern art piece and floral throw pillows beautifully combine in a display of eclecticism with a vintage-meets-modern vibe:
Today’s post is dedicated to eclectic spaces. Lately I’ve seen a plethora of rooms featuring elements such as earthy tribal rugs, plush sofas, abstract art and eye-catching accessories. The result: a diverse interior that demands to be noticed. Below we show you how to get the eclectic look. For more inspiration on the joy of refurbishing vintage finds, be sure to check out Vintage Renewal. And now for a few design secrets to guide you as you create an eclectic space of your own…
Start with a Patterned Rug
We begin with the floor. Many eclectic spaces feature patterned rugs that anchor the room in a wonderfully earthy way. In fact, the rugs are frequently tribal or geometric in nature, much like the Phoenix Wool Dhurrie from West Elm below. With a Southwestern-inspired pattern featuring reds and pinks, this item is a true standout:
Speaking of geometric patterns, the Jasper Aqua Rug from Crate & Barrel is an optical combination of soft blue and powder white. The lighter colors in this wool rug make it ideal for spaces showcasing a range of patterns. Even though it features a striking design, this rug will not overpower your interior…
If you like stripes and prints, this next rug has both! The Kabuki Cotton Printed Dhurrie from West Elm is inspired by Boro, a traditional Japanese textile. An array of patterns are featured on this lightweight piece:
One of today’s top design trends: patterned rugs in neutral tones. We’re drawn to the Alhambra Rug from CB2, inspired by the tile work, structures and frescoes of Granada, Spain. Designed by Matthew Lew, this piece features an optic geometric pattern in neutral shades. Perfect for pairing with vivid furnishings!
Introduce an Elegant Plush Sofa
Speaking of furnishings, when it comes to eclectic spaces, the possibilities are endless… But for now we zone in on one elegant piece featured in many of today’s eclectic rooms: the plush sofa. Check out the Chester Tufted Upholstered Sofa from West Elm, shown below in blue performance velvet. Button tufting is another highlight of this curvy piece…
The appeal of tufting can’t be denied. Not only does it add an instant sense of formality, it creates texture in a room. Below we see the Elton Settee from West Elm, which offers a slim take on overstuffed sofas. Gentle sweeping lines and a striking abundance of tufting are true highlights:
The Rochelle Sofa from Crate & Barrel boasts a citron yellow color reminiscent of vintage fabric. There’s definitely something timeless about this piece, especially since its shape conjures the best in Mid-Century style. Did we mention that this sofa is upholstered in soft cotton velvet?
The Tillary Tufted Sofa from West Elm is the epitome of eclectic. Not only does it feature traditional tufting, it showcases a modern, clean-lined armless design. How eclectic!
Add Some Modern Art
Let’s talk art. Abstract art is a fabulous counterpart to a bold rug and an eye-catching sofa. There’s something wonderfully modern about abstract pieces, which will add another level of contrast an eclectic room, especially one featuring an earthy rug and elegant seating. This Chroma Print from Crate & Barrel was digitally produced by artist collective Grey Keller. A giclée reproduction of the original is printed on fine art paper, matted in linen and framed in parna pine:
Below we see Cast from Z Gallerie, a combination of neutral and blue tones that celebrates the power of pattern and texture. The artwork can be purchased as a framed gallery-wrapped giclée canvas…
The peachy tones of Nine Months – Capri, an abstract modern painting from Whitney Reynolds Orr, are absolutely stunning. Throw in shades of blue and gold, and you have a rich mixed media painting that looks good enough to eat! The layered feel of the piece is created with acrylic paints and Japanese paper. Elegant and delicious!
When it comes to artwork that makes a statement, you can go with one bold piece or group a collection of smaller abstract pieces, such as the Color Study Wall Art from West Elm, shown below. Palettes range from orange to blue and neutral. A celebration of abstract art, these modern selections are the perfect way to introduce contemporary style to eclectic interiors…
Top It All Off with Unforgettable Accessories
Now it’s time for the icing on the cake… We’re talking about the decorative items that put the finishing touches on your eclectic room. And anything goes in terms of style! We’re crazy about these Marble Print Silk Pillow Covers from West Elm, which are screen printed on pure silk. Don’t they beautifully channel the alluring bands of minerals?
Don’t hesitate to add a vintage touch to your space with the help of colorful fabric that references the past. This Vintage Blossom Persimmon Pillow from Dwell Studio is a colorful update of the traditional Chinoiserie motif. Birds, flowers and branches seamlessly blend in a bold pattern. And you simply can’t ignore that radiant color!
There’s no arguing that brass has made a comeback! It definitely has a vintage vibe, but a new array of designs keeps it modern and relevant in today’s design world. These Pinch Bowls from CB2 are crafted of brass-plated stainless steel. A stylish pinched edge gives them a contemporary twist.
We end with an unforgettable tabletop decor item that combines vintage style with a curiosity-inspired look. Add some colorful flair to your space with the Forest Bird Menagerie from West Elm. Crafted of natural sisal, these little vignettes really stand out when encased in domed cloches…
Did any of the images above catch your eye? I’m definitely exploring my patterned rug options as we speak! It’s not about starting from scratch–the beauty of an eclectic space is your ability to use what you have and build on it with new and vintage finds. Happy decorating!
