Renters Guide to Style: Eclectic

Eclectic style is especially popular these days, which is great for renters because it works seamlessly in spaces of all shapes and genres. Just like the name suggests, eclectic is a combination of other styles with contemporary leanings, and a bit of the excess and panache of a bygone era.

Embrace the color wheel

Eclectic style loves color and pays no attention to coloring inside the lines. Luckily, accessories such as art and a mass of throw pillows make color splashes easy for renters. A giant piece of art, like the one in the image above, makes a big statement with only a single hole in the wall. Color is also good for renters because it can liven up even the most dull, lifeless space instantly. Embrace every color on the wheel.

Highlight the space itself

By placing the onus on the space itself and any unique features it might have, eclectic style becomes a minimalist concept where each piece put into the space serves as function or art. The bedroom featured above is dominated by the exposed brick walls, huge windows and wood floors. Simple contemporary and modern pieces stand out against the traditional bones and create a streamlined eclectic style.

Mix it up

These days we tend to shy away from mixing patterns, but in eclectic style just about anything goes. This room is a great example of how to bring together pieces from different eras to create an eclectic look. It has enough white space and solid colors to handle a few patterns and styles. The ceiling is rustic where as the couch, chairs and coffee table are very modern. The rug however, is entirely eclectic. The room is tied together with wood accents and a muted yet still fun color scheme.

Display your treasures

Eclectic style has a sense of spirit and can showcase your personality. To do so, display your treasures from travels, heirloom family pieces and contemporary trinkets. You can pull together grandma’s bureau, a thrifted chair, and your favorite books and baubles based on a color or theme. Originality and quirkiness are key when it comes to eclectic style, so show off your passions through your possessions.

Invite drama

… in your furnishings, at least. The striking color combination and unique furnishings make the living room shown here a real marvel. Eclectic style never shies away from the spotlight and thrives on the dramatic and unexpected. A plum-purple vintage velvet sofa is sensational at its eclectic best. Indoor greenery and a large art piece enhance the “show,” as do the bright contrasting throw pillows.

Surprise and delight

Surprise and delight may seem like hard things for a renter to pull off, but this eclectic living room comes alive with its collection of unique pieces. While a stone fireplace and high ceilings are probably not happening in your rental, you can get playful with furnishings, like the drum-shaped coffee table and zebra throw rug. Pops of color around the room, are fun surprises without feeling disjointed. The neutral couch and chairs are versatile and fit in with any space. There are many visual layers here that work beautifully together in eclectic style.

DIY it up

Eclectic style is great for do-it-yourself projects. Hand-crafted pieces bring a sense of personality to your place. The dresser in the image above definitely adds an eclectic vibe and a focal point to this funky and bright closet. Wall hangings, coffee table hacks and painted bookshelves are other popular DIY projects for renters.