(mouse over pics for sources)

To me, this “retro-vintage-antiques-modern” mix is all about recycling and reusing great designs from the past – disregarding as many rules about consistency and coherence as possible – and in the process creating interesting and elegant rooms fit for modern living. This eclectic style (which might be easiest to pull of in a period property), ought to have real staying power. So many combinations to try! Posssibly stay clear of the most heavily used 50s classics at the moment to avoid it all looking predictable, but overall I can’t see a room with a successful and harmonious vintage-modern blend going out of fashion any time soon!

Here’s more from the same stylist…

All of the above pics come from stylist Aaron Hom.

[pic: Living Etc]

[Right: Andy Warhol Butterflies print, 100 GBP at Heals Left: pic from Promove]

The interior design world has had the poor things locked up in birdcages long enough; quoth the raven, ‘nevermore’…

[upper pic by Studio Ilse, bottom pic by Domino magazine]

We both love the eighties—the 1880s, says fashion designer Anthony Malat and photographer Jamie Isaia in NY Magazine. In particular, film has inspired this couple’s fab interiors. The office interiors of the film Downfall were a big influence on their coulor palette. And in general, it was a mixture of Flowers in the Attic, Pretty Baby, The City of Lost Children and Spaceballs that inspired these fascinating decor choices.

All photos by Todd Selby/The Selby.

| pic: Alvhem |

| pic: trendey.com |

Love the vibe. | pic: LivingEtc |

IMHO? Amazing. A creative and interesting decor that stays balanced and harmonious. A splendid mix with lovely details. Elaborate yet relaxed: A fresh white-based eclectic style.

Story and (more) pics via the magazine Sköna hem.

Pics from LivingEtc

Maybe we can apply law here! In copyright law, the term ‘threshold of originality‘ (Sw. verkshöjd) determines when a creator of a work has certain exclusive rights. Threshold of originality means that something reaches a level of artistry – it is a measure of originality, individuality and independence. The threshold of originality does not include the ideas, the subject or contents of a work, but its unique shape, expression and interpretation. Originality has to do with a reflection of the author’s/creator’s personality. You see where I’m going with this..? :)

The main characteristics of the eclectic decor style is that it radiates authenticity and originality. It is telling of its creator. Furthermore, the eclectic style has been associated some benchmarks: a mix of several styles; design elements should coordinate or have a unifying component; main decor principles should be followed; harmony created. I’m a qualified lawyer but I am no judge. So I’m turning to you: what do you say about the level of artistry in these decors, 1-5? Does the decor reach the threhold of originality?

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

|All photos from real estate agents via Hemnet|

The threshold of originality is a legitimate question in the artistic eclectic category, but also in terms of interior design in general. Can the interior at all be original if you slavishly follow trends? Is originality the main objective in decor? And one step further and broader: What is Your main objective in decorating?

It is often explained that an eclectic decorating style mixes elements from at least two other decorating styles. Percentages to the style mix have been suggested, though (to me) it seems impossible to be guided by such a precise breakdown. Essence of the style is that it is perfectly permissible, and even mandated, to mix different styles. Mix traditional with casual, Eastern inflences with country style or contemporary with any ethnic culture AS LONG AS there is a unifying component to the decor.

Speaking of different styles, I might be late, but just found this interesting personal style test at Sproost. My personal style result was 40 % Vintage Modern, 30 % Rustic Revival and 30 % French Eclectic. What’s yours?

Those who know say eclectic style is mainly about creating harmony. The contrasting style elements are combined so that they in fact create harmony. It’s through vague or indistinct commonalities elements are bond together. This is a key question to the style, I’d say. There is for sure a thin line between eclectic decor and chaos. Basic design concepts such as form, scale, pattern and colour must be taken into account.

Another element in the eclectic style is to add whimsical and unique items. Fun and varied accessories are placed out: artwork, knick knacks and pillows. Trolls are the ultimate knick-nack! I did this one! The model is a Swedish rock/folk singer I like :) A fascinating knick knack-collection can be found in the eclectic home I wrote about here.

There seems to be widespread agreement that an eclectic style or decor is more telling of its creator than all other kinds of decor. It radiates authenticity and originality. There aren’t many rules, it can’t be! Do whatever you like keeping the main decor principles (about form, scale, composition, proportion, etc.) in mind is the way of the style. Champion it, and the decor will radiate a soulful bohemianism.

|pics: HouseToHome|