Defining Design: Eclectic Interiors

“Eclectic” is a word that has become rather ubiquitous. It’s an easy way to explain a look that doesn’t fit into any traditionally defined molds, yet it is a word that conjures up so many images for so many people. While traditional and modern aesthetics have slightly stricter definitions and parameters, eclecticism, like beauty, is completely open for interpretation and is often in the eye of the beholder.

For example, “eclectic” could be used to describe the stunning dining room above, although most of the pieces belong to the midcentury modern aesthetic—Platner chairs, a sputnik chandelier, an abstract table, and painterly rug. These items come together in a room that is modern in sensibility but most definitely feels “eclectic”.

 

Having said that, a space like this one featuring mostly traditional elements such as a bergere chair, hand-painted deGournay wallpaper, boxwood topiaries, warm wood finishes, and nailhead trim could also be seen as eclectic. After all, the bergere chair is upholstered in an abstract Madeline Weinrib fabric, the dining chairs are upholstered in cerulean leather, and the designer opted for a modern Saarinen Tulip Table. That’s definitely an “eclectic” mix, right?

{An Eclectic Room by Todd Alexander Romano}

An “eclectic” room can be polished or rustic, masculine or feminine, stark in palette or swathed in color and pattern. In my opinion, the most defining factor of an “eclectic” interior is the mix. Any interior, but especially an eclectic one, is all about the layers. Layers of color, texture, pattern, patina, and interest. The interiors I consider to be eclectic and also some of the most beautiful include an interesting assortment of pieces—items from various eras and places. Eclectic interiors are some of the chicest and also most personal because of the mix that I mentioned. Quite often, you’ll find sentimental pieces mixed in with expensive antiques and junk store finds, but the way in which they are composed and edited is what makes the provenance of each piece a little less obvious, but all the more special.

{Bold Prints via From the Right Bank}

{A Mix of Traditional and Modern, Global and Abstract in a Living Room by Douglas Mackie}

{An Eclectic Library by the great Albert Hadley}

{The architecture of this room by Allen Kirsch is traditional, but the furniture and accessories are most definitely an eclectic mix!}

{Glamour and Eclecticism meet in this Room by Christine Dovey of Bijou and Boheme}

{Masculine Eclecticism via Remodelista}

 

{An Eclectic Room by Bruce Budd via Mark D. Sikes}

{Layers of Patterns and Textures in an Eclectic Space via Nuevo Estilo}

What is your definition of an “eclectic” interior? Is this a style to which you gravitate? Do you agree that it is a very subjective term?