5 simple tips to create eclectic interiors that still feel luxurious – from an interior designer who's perfected the balance

I love eclectic interiors because they celebrate individuality, layering pieces that tell a story and reflect the lives of those who inhabit the space. Combining warm woods, natural stone, woven elements, and modern accents creates a depth that feels sophisticated and timeless.

You might think that a characterful eclectic interior design style doesn't naturally fit with luxurious spaces, but I disagree. For me, true luxury comes from a thoughtful balance – where each piece tells a story, and the layers work together to elevate the space. Eclectic design isn’t about being loud; it’s about crafting a home that’s soulful, curated, and effortlessly elegant. These are my key tips for getting that balance between character and sophistication right, to create rooms that feel both unique and luxurious.

1. Begin with a Foundation of Balance

A well-balanced foundation is essential for eclectic design to feel intentional rather than chaotic.

We start by grounding the space with timeless design and architectural details, such as crown molding, paneling, or neutral base colors, which create a harmonious backdrop. Clean lines in furniture or built-ins further establish a sense of order. High-quality foundational elements like custom cabinetry, elegant flooring, or classic window treatments anchor the design and provide a sophisticated structure.

This approach allows bold, eclectic pieces to shine within a cohesive framework, ensuring the space feels elevated rather than overwhelming. When the foundation is balanced, every layer added afterward feels purposeful and well-integrated.

2. Blend Textures and Materials for Depth

Eclectic design thrives on texture and materiality, and we focus on blending these elements to create depth and richness.

Natural materials, like stone countertops or hardwood floors, pair beautifully with softer, organic elements, like woven baskets, jute rugs, or linen upholstery. Adding contrasting finishes – such as a sleek, polished brass light fixture against rough-hewn wood – creates visual interest and sophistication.

The key is to thoughtfully layer materials that complement one another, avoiding anything that feels jarring or out of place. These combinations bring a sense of balance to the room while keeping it dynamic and visually engaging. The result is a home that feels rich and tactile, inviting you to look closer and experience the details.

3. Tie it Together with a Cohesive Color Palette

Color is one of the most effective tools for unifying diverse design elements in an eclectic space.

We often begin by drawing inspiration from a client’s favorite artwork, a vintage rug, or even a beloved piece of fabric. Using these colors as the foundation, we subtly weave them into the room through upholstery, paint finishes, accessories, or window treatments.

This technique creates a sense of harmony, even in a space with diverse styles or textures. While we embrace bold accents, we often balance them with muted colors or neutral tones to prevent the design from feeling busy or overwhelming. A well-chosen color palette not only ties the room together but also brings a sense of warmth, sophistication, and completeness.

4. Curate Statement Pieces That Tell a Story

Every home has a story, and the statement pieces in an eclectic design are its storytellers. These carefully curated elements – be it a vintage Persian rug, a boldly patterned chair, or an antique sideboard – are what make a space memorable and personal.

Rather than filling a room with trendy or generic items, we source meaningful pieces with history or artistry. Statement pieces create focal points within a room, grounding the design while adding personality. For example, an oversized art piece might anchor a gallery wall, or a sculptural chandelier could tie together the entire dining room. Each piece is chosen with intention, creating a home that feels unique and reflective of the homeowner’s journey and tastes.

5. Layer in Meaningful Details

Eclectic design is deeply personal, and meaningful details are the heart of it. We incorporate items that tell a story about our clients, an heirloom vase, a collection of travel mementos, or books that reflect their interests. These details add layers of character and ensure the space feels authentic and lived-in.

For example, a vintage map might be framed as wall art in a study, or a set of handmade ceramics might be styled on open kitchen shelves. These moments of storytelling are what elevate the space from simply “designed” to truly lived-in and loved. By layering in these personal touches, we create a home that resonates emotionally while maintaining an effortlessly luxurious feel.