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Thinking of redecorating soon? Then maybe consider merging some of your favorite styles into one that suits you with a nifty fusion décor theme. Here are some tips before you begin.
Mix Themes that Fit Naturally
Like food fusion, you need to mix themes that go together naturally for the best fusion decorating style. Consider Japandi or Scandi Boho as perfect examples. With both of these fusions, form, style, and functionality fit well for an optimal balance of styles. In addition, the materials and colors are also similarly designed. Suppose you have a luxury Middle-Eastern property that is getting a little tired. Then consider a blend of Moroccan and Islamic design for a unique contemporary Arabic style. They are different, but similar enough to merge well.
Fusion Décor Relies on Proper Use of Colors
As well as the design styles of your fusion, colors play an essential role in bringing two design styles together. Color is used extensively in interior design because it can make or break a room. And the same applies to fusion. Begin with a base color and plan around it with complementary shades and tones of the same hue. However, offset harsh tones with neutrals between fabrics and materials, such as walls and fittings. The finish of a design with complementary colors from opposite sides of the color wheel naturally blends together.
Match Colors and Textures from Different Pieces
Each decorating style from all over the world uses various colors, textures, and patterns seen throughout their history. For instance, Japanese furniture relies heavily on making the grainy textures of bamboo and paper part of the style, which lends itself well to simple geometric patterns on wooden pieces. At the same time, the monotony of these can be offset with strategically placed exquisite Arabic calligraphy prints on your throws and cushions. The idea is to complement and accent opposing styles with a delicate balance of the two.
Approach Your Style SystematicallyMixing and matching pieces in an eclectic manner is a waste of time and energy. So instead, when experimenting with a fusion idea, you must approach it systematically. So you don't end up with a gaudy cluster of things that have no business being in the same room.
- Clear the room of everything.
- Place the large pieces in key positions first.
- Strategically place smaller pieces around larger ones.
- Add your accessories and decorative elements.
- Scatter pieces from different styles.
By placing items strategically, you can see what works together before you have a complete room. Try not to move on to the next segment until you are happy that the previous ones complement each other. For instance, get large and small pieces right before accessorizing.
Make a Focal Point of things that Stand Out
When you clear a room ready for decorating, there will be things you cannot remove. These are usually large, structural things like beams, frames, and fireplaces. And although you can't remove them, they can be a great help when designing a room. You can make a focal point of anything that is sure to grab attention. The trick is minimizing its impact by using complementary colors and surrounding it with adequately scaled and textured pieces that match the style. So, don't go placing shiny items all over the room if there's a massive chandelier hanging down.
Don't Forget about the Scale of Your Fusion Décor
Most people overlook scale when thinking about fusion. Scale simply refers to sizes and how they match with each other. Some decorating styles match well with each other in terms of scale, and some don't. Japandi is a perfect example of a good match in scale. Yet you wouldn't want your antique oak French country dining chairs around your minimalist glass and steel dining table. The scales (and style) just aren't right. High-backed chairs need a high surface to support the imposition they bring to a room. And don't forget about the room's size either.
Don't Lump Styles Together
The whole point of fusion decorating is to seamlessly blend two or more styles into something unique. You can't do this if you put all of one style in one part of the room and another style in another corner. For example, your office might be due for a makeover, and you want something worldly. Therefore, Victorian antique style pieces and gadgets among rustic, earthy materials will fit well. But only if you coordinate them properly by spreading them among the room according to style, color, texture, and scale. All the Victorian stuff at one end will look silly among the rest.
Summary
Fusion is a challenge. But you can make a start by finding themes that fit well. Then systematically fill the room to see what works and remember the scale is as important as color.
