HOW TO MIX DESIGN STYLES FOR A COHESIVE AND INVITING SPACE
Designing a space that feels both cohesive and personalized often means blending different design styles in a way that harmonizes rather than clashes. At AVD, we believe that mixing styles isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about bringing out the character of a space and making it truly reflective of those who inhabit it. By thoughtfully combining elements from various design traditions, we create spaces that are rich in texture, depth, and personality.
Our design philosophy is rooted in the idea that no single style should dominate a space. Instead, we aim to create a fusion of styles that work together to tell a cohesive story. Whether it's blending the clean lines of modern design with the warmth of traditional elements or integrating the ornate details of Mediterranean architecture into a contemporary setting, our goal is to create spaces that feel layered, inviting, and uniquely personal.
A Personal Case Study: Modern Traditional with Mid-Century Modern Elements
In my own home, I’ve embraced a design style that blends Modern Traditional with elements of Mid-Century Modern. The result is a space that feels both timeless and current, warm yet sophisticated.
Color Palette: I opted for neutral tones like white, cream, and natural wood, accented with dark green and black. This combination adds depth and warmth while keeping the space cohesive. The neutral base allows for flexibility in introducing different elements, while the darker accents add a touch of drama and contrast.
Furniture: The furniture in my home combines sleek, modern lines with traditional elements. For example, the chairs and sofas feature clean, simple forms that are characteristic of mid-century design, while the cozy, textured fabrics introduce a more traditional, comfortable feel. This blend of styles ensures that the space feels both stylish and inviting.
Lighting: Lighting is another area where I’ve mixed styles to great effect. The pendant lights over the kitchen island, for example, have a modern yet slightly industrial feel, with sharp lines and mixed materials. This choice contributes to the contemporary aspect of the design.
Our Calgary 60s Bungalow Transformation
In this video, I’ll walk you through each room of the completed design, showcasing the unique touches that made this space perfect for living, working, and creating. Many of you have asked about the talented partners I worked with and where I sourced the beautiful materials that brought our vision to life. Dive in to see the full transformation! For more videos and updates, be sure to check out our YouTube channel.
Bringing It All Together
The key to successfully mixing design styles lies in finding a common thread that ties everything together, whether it’s a shared color palette, a recurring material, or a consistent level of craftsmanship. At AVD, we strive to create spaces that feel coherent and harmonious, even when they draw from diverse influences.
By carefully curating each element—furniture, fabrics, lighting, and more—we can create a space that feels unified, while still allowing each piece to shine in its own right. Whether you’re looking to blend modern and traditional styles or incorporate a variety of influences into your home, the art of mixing design styles is all about balance, intention, and a deep understanding of what makes each style unique.
Click here and explore photos of my personalized home project!