I love eclectic houses for their courage, originality and appetite for collage. This one is located in London and it looks like that after Brian O’Tuama Architects completed a long process of refurbishment. As you can easily notice, if you want to create an eclectic set-up at home, you’d better start from a property you inherited because you can fructify the old spirit of the building. Take the striking insertion of glass into the robust brick wall in the kitchen, for example.
The architect succeeded in creating a strong connection with the exterior through an eye-catching contrast. And, that’s what eclectic is all about. Building on contrasts, while keeping the work clear and neat. A huge minimalist poster into a kitchen where old tiles were left exposed would normally be forbidden by design books. Well, if your style is eclectic, you can simply combine whatever your heart asks for: old fireplaces with modern sculptures, cushioned armchairs with metal coffee tables, pop art tapestry with wooden insertions. Although it may sometimes be difficult to find the perfect rhythm in every room, look for a central theme and try to create around it so that the space gets a coherent feeling. A vintage piece will not look strange if displayed properly on a clear background, and a modern item will not break the cozy atmosphere if arranged in key with the elements nearby. The secret in eclectic houses is to let everyone tell its story, without disturbing the neighbour.
