Cohesive Mixing

 

Source: Toll Brothers

    Cohesive mixing sounds like an oxymoron, right? I mean how can you be cohesive when you are mixing anything? Well, this picture is a great example of creating a cohesive space with a bunch of mixed materials. Tile floors, stone walls, wood mantle, tile frame fireplace wall, high pile rug, leather chairs, and even fur pillows are in this one space and even right up against one another. Not to mention the metal and glass accents that allow for even more texture. Without seeing all the elements working together, one would probably think all those elements could never work in one room!

    The key to making all those materials work in one space is the color palette. Notice most of the colors are muted. There are pops of dark with the tile frame up the wall, the black fireplace insert, the black coffee table tray, and the black arms of the leather chair. Darker wood tones in the mantle and stair rail join the black with the beige sofa and grey floors. All the colors work so well with one another that the texture is needed for the space to not feel flat. The modern lines of the furniture, mixed with the rustic stone walls complement one another since they are in the same color family. The fluted sideboard, fur pillows, artwork, lighting, and entry area selections add another element of modern with a midcentury nod. 

    This living room at first glance appears to be somewhat masculine, but if you look closely there are a few feminine touches with the glass accessories, floral decor, and pillow fabrics. The room feels sophisticated without being stuffy, and relaxed but tailored; like the room is giving you a big warm hug! Remember to layer in different materials to not only add interest but also to give the space the ability to be more than just one feel. Who says relaxed has to be bulky and oversized, and sleek and sophisticated can't be comfortable? This space is the perfect example of cohesive mixing!