It's Not All Textbook

Sometimes we get caught up on the design specifics for spaces we live in.  What colors do I want to use? Will that color work with what I already have? How can I fit my furniture in the space?  There was a reason we chose to live there, there was something in this space that pulled you in.  I knew right when I walked in my apartment that this was the space.  Of course the original cabinets in the kitchen and the hardwood floors were huge aesthetic selling points for me, but overall it was cozy and quaint, it fit my personality and style.


My roommate and I are very different when it comes to design styles.  She loves bright bold colors and I am natural and classic. These can be issues when living with roommates since you want to make the space comfortable for both of you. The best part about our combination is somehow we make it work.  The apartment has a flow and a comfort to it little elements throughout the space tie the whole home together.


Here are some images where color and style when seen separately, you wouldn't think they could work well together, but, they do!

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Would you think a stacked wood wall would work with an Eiffel tower legged chair (originally designed by Eames in the 50's) paired with the vintage tulip based table and cement wall?  Probably not but they do. And they work oh so very well.  This space is a perfect example of different elements and styles working in one space. 

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parliament design offices - Portland, OR or by ooh_food on Flickr

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The kitchen below combines elements that if listed on paper I would have never put in the same space, but look at it, this kitchen is beautiful! The striking island with the chrome top is a great focal point.  The chocolate cabinets are mimicked in the floor tile mosaic.  After the mind travels all around the room, you look up and see the tin style ceiling!  This very different than classic lines of the cabinets and the modern style of the island.  This design is far from traditional but works well. The red island will be a conversation piece!

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Traditonal Home

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Just remember that people tend to gravitate towards a style.  The objects or elements in the space will somehow have similarities to them.  This can be by color, texture, line similarity. If you don't think it will all work together you might surprise yourself!  Once you combine all the elements the overall style will flow and you will love it together since you loved it all separately first!