Dialogue Between Eras

 

Source: Analiticaderetail

    When it comes to designing a living space, how do you add interest? Of course, you want your living room to be comfortable, cozy, functional, and pretty to look at; but sometimes you also want that "wow factor." There is something about when you have people over and they compliment your home's design, we grin and take pride. The living room is where you can show off a little, and express your personality without sacrificing all the "feels" you want the room to have.

    I like to add drama to a space by doing something unexpected. For me personally, I love mixing different design eras. In the picture above, the walls are covered in very ornate wall moldings indicative of the Victorian era; but the furnishings are modern and clean which was first introduced in the 1940s. For some drama could be added with color on an accent wall, or by creating a focal point in the room. Using an unexpected mix of materials or using unique colorful or textured artwork, is another way to add interest to a space. Adding architectural elements, such as archways, beams, ornate ceilings, or fireplaces is a great way to add that something special that makes a room memorable.

    The key to mixing design styles is to find a common dialogue between all the elements. So in the above example, the common dialogue between the eras is the color palette. Color is a great way to unify a space when you want to use a more "eclectic" mix of furnishings or want to furnish a home that is opposite style of the original character of the home.

Source: Interior Design Ideas

   Some combinations of styles are not as dramatic as modern Victorian. An example of this is modern industrial or minimal industrial. These combinations of 1930s industrial and 1990s minimal are more commonly seen and therefore not so unexpected. I would add an oversized ornate or crystal chandelier to give these spaces an unexpected twist. Adding an element of surprise to a space is how you create that memorable moment that inspires conversation. So when you are trying to choose things to fill your space, only choose things you love and tell your story. You can always find ways to unify your selections so that you end up with a cohesive space that is uniquely yours.