Eclectic really is what you make it. This style doesn’t necessarily have a set description of qualifications. In the article, What Is Eclectic Style?, Stefanie Waldek identifies that ”The word eclecticism is derived from the Greek word eklektikos, which loosely means "to choose the best.” It’s important to note that there are not many hard and fast rules when it comes to eclectic style, other than the overall look shouldn’t fit into any other single category." Keep reading for some of our best tips on detecting what really defines eclectic style.

Let it Flow

Let your personality shine through the room! Creating a flow throughout your home is equally as important as claiming it as your own. The intention of eclectic style is to join items together and work to find pieces that blend well to avoid looking disjointed. Choosing a color palette, drafting a layout, and keeping negative space are all ways to create a balance while planning out what works the best.

Photo Courtesy: Kenna Reed for Studio Shaolin

Decorate with Plants

Opt for a more tropical look by incorporating large physical plants in corners or smaller bouquets that can be placed on tabletops or nightstands. Big plants like palms or monsteras can be styled as a California Casual look to capture the ultimate relaxation spot while blending in wood and natural textures. Other plants like dried pampas or palmetto leaves can be styled for a boho look (and for those of you that lack a green thumb... don’t require any water).

Curate a Gallery Wall

If you find that you have empty walls that need a little spice, consider curating a gallery wall. Gallery walls can range from a display of your artwork collection to a congregation of family photos. “You want to be able to layer some frames on top of each other and have a variety of sizes/shapes to create dimension and texture,” says designer Shaolin Low, in the article, 5 Gallery Wall Layouts to Try in 2021 (And One That'll Date You Immediately), According to Designers by Sydney Meister. Gallery walls can be one of the least costly ways to add personalization to your home without breaking the bank. Often you can thrift or upcycle frames that blend together for a more vintage look or order inexpensive frames that can achieve your desired look.

Check out our Press page for more of Shaolin’s styling tips to help you decorate your home!

Find a Bold Statement Piece

Rather than filling the room, choose a statement piece to give your room a focal point. Work around one item to ensure your space is as balanced as it is tasteful. In the article, Eclectic Style Defined And How To Get The Look by Décor Aid, “If you have too many bold conversation starters, they’ll eventually compete with each other with both losing after overwhelming the viewer and dismissing the eclectic edge you were aiming for.” By styling around your statement piece you can give it the moment it deserves. Aim for a clean look by not over decorating and selecting items that are multi-functional.

Photo Courtesy: Suarez Creative House for Studio Shaolin

Follow Your Intuition and Style

The best aspect about this style is that eclectic is what you make it. Take all of these tips to your discretion and go as crazy as you like! Our most recent project, Prospect Street, has a combination of our suggestions with some of that Shaolin flare. The living space had a mix of fringe, sequins, and ceramics, styled coffee table books and greenery, while the bedroom had a mix of rattan, tassels, and wallpaper… and voilà eclectic boho style vibes were everywhere!

Want some help with your eclectic style?

At Studio Shaolin we work with clients in Hawaii and across the United States to create timeless spaces that reflect the individual needs of each project. Learn more about how we can help with your interior design project by booking a discovery call.

Tips to Nail Eclectic Style