The art of mixing styles: a guide to creating harmonious interior design

Mixing different decorating styles has become an ever-present trend in interior design. We’ve seen a rise in the popularity of interiors that combine sleek modernity, industrial elements and vintage gems, creating rich, dynamic atmospheres.

In this article, we’ll explain how to combine different decorative styles while maintaining a visual balance and sharing practical tips on choosing colors and materials for a stylish interior.

 

Importance of visual harmony in interior design

If you dive in without looking at the big picture, combining different styles in the same space can quickly become chaotic. The goal is to create a connection between decorative elements to ensure an aesthetic balance.

A mismatched interior is likely to feel cluttered, making your home less pleasant to live in. On the other hand, with carefully selected colors and accessories, contrasts become complementary, and each element finds its natural place.

 

Recognizing styles for better matching

To master the art of mixing different interior design styles in the same space, you first need to know how to identify them. Here are the key elements you need to know about 3 major style families: modern, vintage and industrial.

 

  • Modern style: characterized by clean lines, materials such as glass and metal, neutral colors and an emphasis on simplicity.
  • Vintage style: incorporates furniture with retro lines, warm materials such as wood and rattan, and period decorative objects.
  • Industrial style: highlights raw materials such as concrete, steel and leather, with a palette of dark tones.

 

Role of paint in combining styles

Interior paint plays an essential role in harmonizing different styles within the same decor. Benjamin Moore has a wide range of unique shades to suit your home and bring your vision to life.

 

Neutral colors: the bridge between styles

Opting for a neutral paint color as a backdrop is the key to a successful blend of styles. In fact, a neutral hue on walls, such as white, beige or grey, helps tie together disparate decorative elements by providing visual continuity.

 

Bright colors: an accent of personality

To bring more dynamism to the room, a touch of color can be added with an accent wall or accessories. Armchairs, picture frames or cushions in deeper or more saturated hues tastefully add contrast and character.

 

Create structure with paint

If you’re mixing different styles in an open-plan room, painting a section of the wall in a slightly different shade can help structure the space without partitioning it. In fact, painting offers a result just as interesting (and less space-consuming) as that of a folding screen or a piece of dividing furniture.

 

Choosing the right accessories for a harmonious setting

Decorative accessories are at the heart of a successful mixed decor. They add a personal touch to your interior… but they can also make the difference between a skilfully arranged space and a cabinet of curiosities.

 

The power of accents

Decorative accessories are perfect for reinforcing a mood while ensuring visual continuity. A textured rug, colorful cushions or quality curtains will add character without unbalancing the overall look.

 

Balancing textures

Combining different materials is essential to bring dynamism to the decor. An industrial leather sofa can be softened by cotton cushions and a wool rug. For example, vintage wooden furniture can be enhanced by modern metal or glass elements.

 

Create a unique living space with Décoration Le Corbusier

Successfully mixing decor styles relies on a well-thought-out foundation: a neutral color palette, balanced textures and controlled accents. With quality paints from Benjamin Moore and guidance from the Décoration le Corbusier team, you can seamlessly transition between styles and create an interior that’s just right for you.

Come and meet us at one of our 4 stores, where you’ll discover our wide selection of Benjamin Moore paints and receive expert advice on how to make your projects come to life.

 

FAQ (frequently asked questions)

 

How do you choose a paint color that works with a variety of decorative styles?

Opt for one of the many neutral color options available in Benjamin Moore paints. Neutral colors provide a harmonious base for unifying elements from different styles. You can then choose one or more brighter colors to use as an accent, either on a wall, or in furniture or decorative accessories.

 

How do you successfully blend different interior design styles?

To achieve a harmonious fusion of different interior decorating styles, use a neutral wall color as a backdrop and add contrasting decorative elements. You can also play with textures and different shades of the same color palette.

 

What’s the difference between modern, vintage and industrial interior design styles?

Modern style focuses on simplicity, materials like glass and metal, and neutral colors. Vintage style focuses on retro furniture, materials such as wood and rattan, and second-hand decorative objects. Industrial style features dark colors, straight lines and raw materials such as concrete, steel and leather.

 

Where to buy Benjamin Moore paint on Montreal’s North Shore?

You can find a wide range of Benjamin Moore paints and benefit from personalized advice at our 4 Décoration Le Corbusier stores, located in Boisbriand, Laval, Saint-Eustache and Mirabel.