The definition of eclectic is:
Deriving ideas, style or taste from a broad and diverse range of sources.
In interior design this term is often used as a catch all for any space not fitting the structure of any one style.
I often use eclectic to describe my own style and most of my projects simply because I don’t like being limited or pegged by the confines of the terms Traditional, Contemporary, Transitional etc.
There is a freedom in the word eclectic that appeals to me… It is open, inclusive, interpretive and best of all…collected.
Great eclectic design works off of the tension created by the mixing of styles or ideas. There are several examples of this here. The masculine portraits work off of the feminine side chair, and the light and airy lucite table against the heavy wood desk.
Layers and textures are at work in this beautiful eclectic room.
I love the unexpected effect created here by having moody walls and millwork cocoon the light furniture.
Anything that seems out of time or place with its surroundings brings an eclectic energy to a space. These swing sofas from a designer showhouse are completely unexpected and delightful.
A mix of chair styles are happily married here by the uniformity of paint colour.
This space shows a very successful eclectic mix of pieces brought together by a neutral colour palette.
Patterns are layered in this wonderfully eclectic dining space.
I love the row of red chairs balanced by the long upholstered bench. The interesting use of salvaged architectural elements to crown the wall of windows and the grounding force offered by the use of a large patterned area rug.
Painted floors, lucite stools, modern globe fixture mixed with a country farmhouse aesthetic lead to a successful eclectic feeling here.
Such a lovely space.
The juxtaposition of the formal and faded dining chairs, modern barstools, reclaimed dresser mirror with a contemporary birdcage fixture all unified by a light and airy palette combine to create the perfect tension and interest that makes for great eclectic style.
This is my living room where I have mixed a modern Angela Adams rug with a very traditional printed linen fabric from Kravet for drapes.
Yes, the unexpected has always appealed to me… notice the top hat on the tree and the antique child size settee underneath? ( just a subtle reminder… the holidays are fast approaching!)
How about the huge exterior planter converted to a side table in the corner, or the tripod floor lamp inspired by the headlight from a vintage car. It stands beside a pine grandfather clock circa 1875 hidden in this photo by the 12′ tree.
One thing an eclectic room will never be is static… The unexpected causes one to think. It is in it’s very nature creative and interpretive… I like that!
All images in this post (with the exception of the hanging swings) are from Houzz,click on any image to be directed to its source.
I hope you have enjoyed these examples of eclectic design.
So… What do you think? Is it for you?
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I love how you have explained eclectic style, I get it now! And, I like it!
Jill
Hi Jill,
Thank you for letting me know you liked the post, it means a lot to me!
have a great night,
Cynthia
I love this post Cynthia! I’m sharing it on my FB page
I love eclectic because of the NO rules factor 
~ Julie
Hi Julie,
I am glad you liked the post and thank you for sharing it on FB!
I am off to check out your blog now!
Cynthia