Welcome to the comfort zone

DESIGNER EVA SONAIKE HAS TEAMED UP WITH M&S HOME TO SHOW JUST HOW TO PULL OFF STYLE’S NEW ECLECTIC LOOK – HINT: LESS IS MORE

For some, the very idea of teetering into eclecticism might conjure up ideas of bold decor clashes and a certain full-on energy. Not the case with 2023’s new take on the eclectic aesthetic. And the latest offering from M&S Home backs us up with a distinctly chic, tonal and pared-back route to achieving what is more of a sought-after members’ club vibe – the holy grail of an eclectic interior. What’s the key to achieving this look at home? Well, even when it comes to layering up colour and embracing pattern ‘less is usually more’, says designer Eva Sonaike. Imparting her design wisdom, Eva explains her top tricks and tips on getting the look spot on, with M&S Home.

APPROACH IT WITH AN EDITOR’S EYE

It’s certainly a good idea to introduce colour but, as Eva explains, restrain yourself from going overboard and limit colour choices to a maximum of three. ‘When it comes to combining colours, choose finishing pieces in two or three accent shades. For winter, run these hues through weighty curtains, layered cushions and cocooning throws. Try taking inspiration from a piece of artwork you love,’ she says. Similarly, when looking at bringing in pattern and prints, ‘aim for one or two patterns in different scales but with complementary colours and shapes’. As Eva demonstrates here, she alternates patterned cushions with plain ones for balance.

EMPLOY TEXTURE AS YOUR CALLING CARD

In addition to colour and prints, see texture as an opportunity to add interest and that all-important feeling of luxurious comfort. ‘Use texture to create a really cocooning space that you’ll want to hibernate away in during the colder months,’ explains Eva. ‘The contrasting finishes of the bedside table, throws and cushions that I’ve chosen here help to deliver real depth.’ What’s the overall goal to remember? It’s achieving ‘a restful and welcoming space that’s also considered and cohesive,’ says Eva. No need to join the members’ club then.

Watch Eva share more styling tips and shop the collections at livingetc. com/features/eva-sonaike-m-and-s-home-new-eclectic-look

TEXTURE IS KEY TO CREATING A COCOONING AND LUXURIOUS SPACE THAT YOU’LL WANT TO HIBERNATE IN EVA SONAIKE, DESIGNER

Rochester button-back sofa in Aquaclean Classic Weave in Natural, £1,099; Rochester storage footstool in Ochre, £399; Boucle textured cushion, £14; Paris Collection pure cotton throw, £35, all M&S Home

Wooden hurricane lantern, £39.50, M&S Home

Casablanca Collection Kubba tassel cushion, £35; Checked bed set, from £45; Sonoma bedside table, £229, all M&S Home