I recently wrote in blending two disparate interior design styles, like conventional and modern, to help couples develop a new style based on compromise. But that was only scratching the surface. The matter is, every couple is different, and each design style is different, even if it’s lumped into a broad class like conventional or modern — there will remain personal nuances that slightly change each space.
To create a pleasing design equilibrium, a few designers use the 80/20 rule, where a room represents 80% of one style and 20 percent of a contrasting appearance. However, creating a lifetime together is much more of a 50/50 proposition. Occasionally 60/40, occasionally 40/60, but overall it’s a balancing game.
I do not get wrapped up on the percentages, but the key is to produce a prosperous result which respects each person. Working with two people’s styles when the styles have little in common could be a source of conflict, but this can also be a chance to create a new appearance with components common to both.
Here is more on how to process the job while keeping harmony on the front.
Architects, taC studios
Relate via form. This chamber is powerful because the usage of organic kind is normal among the components, and all of them have a tactile quality. It’s possible to attain a great result like this when you really understand why each of you’re drawn to a specific look of a bit.
This chair, by Eero Saarinen, was called the Womb Chair if made for Knoll in 1948. Named because of its comforting sense of security, it marries well with other security- and comfort-offering pieces with which it retains business. For many people historical or traditional elements offer you a feeling of relaxation because they have stood the test of time.
Knowing the reasons your partner is drawn to a different look is essential to knowing how to operate with these tastes. And if both spouses’ tastes are mirrored in a room, the result can be a lot more interesting.
Jane Lockhart Interior Design
Compromise. Transitional spaces like this occasionally please both spouses. If you really are a purist and can’t bear to find a less-than-ideal version of the look you love, you might need to start looking for something that you both can enjoy.
This chamber is neither too conventional nor too modern. The ideal design and peacekeeping solution might be a straight-up-the-middle compromise.
More about transitional style
Andrea Schumacher Interiors
Freshen up. You could find that traditional pieces are more pleasing for your partner if they’re updated through routine and colour. With your grandmother’s handed-down ottoman, by way of instance, it might be the floral pattern your partner is objecting to.
The ottoman here feels quite current in a neutral cloth. And the remainder of the furniture is a carefully disciplined mix. The room has traditional furnishings and elements, but the textiles keep it clean and modern. You can see that the fireplace has been once very detailed — again a case for simplifying. It currently reads as feel and does not create the space too fussy. If you’ve got elaborate millwork, try painting it to reevaluate the detail.
Debbie Basnett, Vintage Scout Interiors
Add something bold and unexpected. This chamber was decidedly traditional until the bold and picture rug was introduced with the sectional. If among you enjoys modern, do not hesitate to actually shake things up by adding a bold announcement. The strong blue of this upholstery retains the appearance together because it has the exact same visual weight because the carpet.
BARBARA SCHAVER DESIGNS
Duplicate, relate and get the mix just perfect. This beautiful room, by C.R. Lane, is a great illustration of a balanced mixture of traditional and modern furniture. The couch and the chairs on the left are flexible pieces (they would work well in a modern or modern room) that contrasts well with the more traditional wing chair on the right, in addition to with all the kilim-upholstered ottoman.
When you look at the details, you will notice that each element is connected to another by colour or pattern, as well as the components are repeated. If you love this appearance, do not forget that the key to success is repetition (do not just include one bit that is conventional; encourage it to welcome a buddy), and relate the pieces by usage of colour or pattern.
Island Architects
Stick with the 80/20 rule. It works superbly here. If you are just gaining confidence in this mix-and-match match, take some cues from this look. A traditional area rug grounds that this otherwise modern living room, giving it a feeling of history. If you’ve got modern furniture, putting a bit of history through a conventional element will keep it from looking like a showroom setup. The result will be individual and personal.
Inform us What would you fight with including your partner just can’t live without?
Component 1: Practical Ways to Merge Tastes