Mix and match for perfect design results
So you’re wondering how to design a space, but there are different approaches you’d like to meld in one room, with maybe a little contemporary to traditional and incorporating trendy colors.
Tackling the task isn’t as hard as it seems when you have a plan. Mixing and matching is all about taking one step at a time.
Amanda Garcia, a Realtor and designer with Houston Home Staging and Design LLC, said begin by identifying your personal style or type of interiors you’re most drawn to and then integrate that look into your own space.
“As far as gathering items, find some inspiration pieces and go from there,” Garcia said. “That could be a certain color palette, light fixture, painting or fabric.” Better Homes and Gardens’ web article,
Learn How to Mix Patterns, stated that a good step to making a move is to do a 60/30/10 approach. This consists of 60 percent of a favorite pattern, 30 percent of a second pattern, and then the final 10 percent is the don’t ignore the possibilities in all rooms. Living and dining rooms are great places to kick off the process.
Garcia suggested taking the chance to experiment in different areas by mixing classic, traditional furniture pieces with more contemporary pieces, for one example.
“Also, using different host and hostess chairs at the ends of a dining table can create a dramatic effect. Then, the possibilities of different light fixtures, rugs and pillows are endless,” she said. The kitchen is another chance to try various palettes and textures.
“We often use one color and stone combination on the island and a different color and stone combination on the remaining cabinetry to create contrast. On the upper cabinetry, blending some glass– front doors to the solid doors can lighten the room up and add an element of interest,” Garcia said.
Garcia said it’s also important to note that mixing multiple tones of distressed gold, black, silver and bronze is becoming noticeable in light fixtures and other accessories. Walls and curtains are a great way to add texture and weight to a room, Garcia said. Neutral colors on window treatments set the stage, and accent walls can add a dramatic effect, Garcia said. Use stone, brick, textured wallpaper or wood planks to catch the eye, she said. Finish with favorite accents for a personal touch.
“Light fixtures are great statement pieces that bring a ‘wow’ factor to a room,” Garcia said. “Rugs, occasional chairs, tables, throw pillows and wall accessories are all good choices when trying to mix and match components in a space. Play with different patterns, colors and shapes to balance out the room while creating visual interest.”
DIY is a possibility if you know how to keep an eye on placement, colors and pieces, Garcia said. She recommended that it is about keeping larger, more expensive pieces neutral, and this also applies to the walls. Be bold with pieces that don’t take as much commitment if looking to change in the future. Overall, it’s about the sense of balance.
“Balanced commonality is extremely important. For example, one side of the room can’t feel too much ‘heavier’ than the other. Make sure there is consistency when mixing materials, styles, size of furniture and colors. At the same time you are creating contrast, you also are bringing it all together for an overall cohesive design,” Garcia said.