Outside view of VIDA Building

The Art of Mismatched Décor

Mismatched mugs on a shelf. Image credit: iStock.

 

March 2023

 

Are you tired of feeling like you have to match everything perfectly in your apartment or townhome? Do you have a lot of furniture, rugs, accessories, and art that don’t quite match but you don’t want to get rid of? Well, good news! Mismatched decor is not only trendy, but it can also look purposeful and professional if done right. Here are some tips to help you mix and match decor like a pro.

Start with a Color Scheme

Choose a color scheme that ties all of your decor pieces together. This could be as simple as choosing two or three colors that complement each other. For example, if you have a blue couch, you could add in decor pieces that are shades of blue, green, and white. When your colors complement each other, you can break the rules in other ways.

Mix Patterns and Textures

Mixing patterns and textures is a great way to add depth and interest to your decor. You can mix florals with stripes, plaid with polka dots, or velvet with leather. The key is to make sure that the patterns and textures are balanced throughout the room. That means avoiding a room full of stripes and just one polka dot pillow.

Play With Scale

Mix small and large decor pieces to create a sense of balance. For example, you could pair a small vase with a large painting or a large rug with small accent pillows.

Use Contrasting Styles

Contrasting styles can create a sense of tension in a room but it can also look purposeful if done right. For example, you could pair a modern couch with a vintage rug or a minimalist lamp with a bohemian tapestry.

Repeat Décor elements

Repeating decor elements throughout a room can tie everything together. This could be as simple as using the same color or pattern in multiple places or incorporating the same decor piece in different areas of the room.

Edit, Edit, Edit

When it comes to mismatched decor, less is often more. Be intentional about the pieces you choose to incorporate into your design and edit out anything that doesn’t fit the overall theme or color scheme. Getting it right can sometimes be a matter of trial and error, so don’t be afraid to mix things up, live with it for a bit, and make changes as needed.

By following these tips, you can create a space that looks purposeful and professional while still incorporating an eclectic mix of styles. Remember, the key is to have fun and let your personality shine through in your design choices.