Interior trends: what is eclectic decor style?

Can’t decide between rustic farmhouse or mid-century modern decor? Or perhaps you want a bit of a boho home decor style with elements of maximalist decor thrown in too? Well, you might have found your match in eclectic decor style. With its focus on carefully curated interiors that express your individual tastes, if you want the best of all worlds and don’t want your home looking too matchy, then read on.

What is eclectic decor style?

Whilst maximalism is all about more is more, eclectic decor focusses on a sparing yet deliberate use of statement colour, texture and unique finds. In other words - don’t overcrowd. Eclectic decor is characterised by careful curation and unpredictability. Blending old and new, incorporating pieces from different periods and styles, an eclectic home will always be entirely unique. Feel free to mix things up and tell your story through vibrant gallery walls and collections of trinkets from global travels—giving your furnishings space to breathe and room to shine.

The history of eclectic decor style

Stemming from the Greek word eklektikos, meaning 'selective' or 'to choose the best', the term was initially used in philosophy to describe the process of picking the best of a range of arguments to form your own. The idea transitioned into architecture from the 19th century with the Victorian-era obsession with global fashions. Rather than sticking to neo-classical or Gothic revival, many architects of this era selected elements from a variety of styles to create a brand new look. From philosophy to architecture, it's no surprise that this process of selecting the best elements of something and repackaging them to create your own trickled down into the interior design world.

Characteristics of eclectic decor style

Eclectic decor characteristic: playful colour palette

Whether on your walls or through your furniture choices, eclectic decor is all about a playful colour palette. Pick one paint colour to anchor the room, and then add a touch of vibrancy with accent colours. For example, you could pair bold furnishings with neutral colours or use a statement wallpaper with colours that you love to inform your palette, like Electric Poppies 02. Take a look at our guide on how to make a mood board and get inspired by these 6 colour bedroom and living room ideas.

Eclectic decor characteristic: incorporation of global influences 

In keeping with modern times, a big part of eclectic decor is incorporating global influences into your decor. This could be in the form of a Chinese lacquered cabinet or a pair of Moroccan pouffes arranged on an enormous Persian rug. Or what about a headboard upholstered with a vintage Uzbek suzani paired with an Indian block-printed quilt (ok those last two might be a bit much together, but you get the idea)?

Take a look at our guide on how to reupholster a headboard to create your own.

Eclectic decor characteristic: a curated mixture of old and new

Just as you can create a curated collection of global influences with eclectic decor, you can mix vintage, antique, and new pieces together. The golden rule is to be selective rather than have loads of "stuff". Don't overdo it. How about pairing a rustic antique dining table with modern shaped Saarinen Tulip chairs or an art-deco inspired upholstered bed with perspex side tables and modern pendant lighting.

Eclectic decor characteristic: mixed patterns and textures

And just as you can blend old and new in eclectic decor, you can artfully mix patterns and textures into your style. A fun and easy way to do this is with your cushions. Pair fluffy Mongolian sheepskin cushions with a colourful velvet pom-pom number or a soft bouclé sofa with a mid-century modern leather armchair.

Eclectic decor characteristic: unexpected design elements

From a movie set floor lamp in the corner of your living room to a salvaged trunk as a coffee table or at the foot of your bed—when it comes to eclectic decor, expect the unexpected. It can even be smaller touches like a novelty door knocker or candlesticks. Or try something totally different and paint or wallpaper your ceiling for a pop of colour where you'd least expect it.

Eclectic decor characteristic: gallery walls

Gallery walls are one of the most striking and key components of eclectic decor. They’re an opportunity for you to display all your favourite artwork and curios in one place. Apply that idea to your walls for a collection of different artistic movements from Pop Art to Impressionism with the odd vintage movie poster, a framed record, and neon sign for good measure. Take a look at these 10 gallery wall ideas for some inspiration in your home of get the look with a sneak peek inside Vogue William’s art-filled London home.

If you think your style is leaning towards the eclectic, then take a look at how to embrace the eclectic style in your living room or learn how to create a stunning eclectic-style bedroom.