Interior design presents an opportunity for exploration of tastes, surprises, and risk taking. In many ways, working with an interior designer allows for homeowners to step outside of comfort zones to create a new, welcoming, yet personal spaces. It is fairly common to identify personal tastes with a particular style—classic, traditional, modern, contemporary, etc. We are naturally drawn to an aesthetic, but in many cases, we can actually overdo it by sticking to close to "home."Mixing and juxtaposing these styles, however, can create new meaning to the space and the objects within it. Mixing and matching elements from these styles allows for bold statements, a unique perspective, and can even breathe new life into once overlooked objects and furniture. In the example above, we see a beautiful, highly decorative headboard paired with a modern classic chair. This small space is a beautiful example of how to mix and match feminine and masculine elements.

The photo above challenges any design period pin down based on its incorporation of strong, bold, modern lines, industrial chic, bare brick walls, blended with ornate, reflective glass chandeliers. Why does this work? This room has a neutral, yet warm palette paired with strong statement pieces. Nothing is overdone here, just a cohesive personal statement.The art of juxtaposition is about inviting risk, saying yes and committing to the pieces you love (despite being from a different era), and balancing the space with simple, neutral elements to tie the room together.Like this? Follow us and get more inspiration on Facebook, Twitter, or contact us by email.