Eclectic chic: How to mix styles, eras and textures

Create separate areas in both the corners and the centre of a large room. A reading chair positioned beside a lamp and a bookshelf creates a functional vignette. And don’t be tempted to always push furniture against the walls. Place a sofa in the middle to create an instant partial divide and arrange other pieces asymmetrically to add interest.

Have fun with your couch. If you’re tired of your couch or it’s in need of a revamp, there’s no need to toss it or have it reupholstered. Replace the back cushions with multiple smaller ones in a variety of textures, shades and patterns for an easy, affordable new look.

For fail-safe mixing, keep either the design or the colour simple: Choose a single hue in different textures or designs, or mix similar patterns in two or three colours.