- Merging styles as newlyweds involves discussion, compromise, and a balance between different home decor tastes.
- Stick to a neutral color scheme, mix and match furniture, and create separate zones for individual styles.
- Basic renovation projects (roofing, flooring, walls) can make a big difference in successfully blending styles.
- Take the process slowly, make purchases together, and ensure any significant decisions are mutually agreed upon.
Decorating your shared space as a newlywed couple can be an exciting and intimate experience. That is, if you can merge your different home decor tastes. After all, figuring out how to blend two distinct styles into one shared space can be daunting. But fret not. Here are some practical tips and tricks on how to merge your styles and create a cohesive and harmonious living space.
Discuss Expectations and Goals
Before jumping into any decorating projects, it’s crucial for you and your spouse to sit down and discuss your style preferences. This is a crucial step, allowing you to set expectations and goals. Talk about what you’d like your home to look and feel like and which pieces of furniture or accessories are non-negotiable. Take the time to determine major style clashes and come up with common ground to create a cohesive design scheme. Here are some things you can do in this step:
Compromise on Color
One easy way to avoid clashing styles is to stick to a neutral color scheme. This can include shades of white, beige, gray, or even black. These colors can help create a harmonious base in your home decor while also providing you with the flexibility to play with color and texture when it comes to furniture and accessories.
If you’re having trouble deciding which neutral color to use or want to add some vibrancy to your space, try using accent colors to inject personality and character into your home.
Mix and Match Pieces
If each of you is attached to specific pieces of furniture, don’t worry. Merging styles does not necessarily mean getting rid of all your favorite parts; instead, it’s about mixing and matching them in a way that works well together.
Rather than replacing everything, consider adding elements from both styles and create a unique balance of your shared tastes. For instance, you can add a mid-century modern coffee table with a rustic leather sofa to give your space both a contemporary and rustic feel.
Create Zones for Each Other
Creating zones can be a great way of merging both styles while simultaneously giving you your own defined space within the home. For instance, if one of you has an extensive book collection, creating a cozy reading nook would signify their personal touch, while the other could have a gaming station in their area. This helps create a balanced feel for both of you to enjoy your shared space and makes it cozy and charming.
Go Through The Basics First
Before you jump into merging styles, it’s best to go through the basics first. Start with the foundations in order to create a good base for your interior design. Here are some minor renovations and projects you can tackle:
Roofing
Roofing might seem like an odd focus when discussing interior design, but remember, your roof is an integral part of the home and contributes to the overall aesthetic. If you’re going for a rustic-style home, consider wooden shingles or clay tiles for a traditional touch. For a modern look, opt for metal roofing.
In any case, consider hiring a reliable roofing contractor who can guide you through the different roofing materials and styles available, helping you make an informed decision that aligns with both your design preferences and practical needs.
Flooring
Flooring is another fundamental element that dictates the feel of your home. If you want a warm, cozy feel, then carpets or hardwood floors can do the trick. For a more contemporary vibe, consider laminate or tile flooring.
The key to merging styles in flooring is choosing a neutral option that can complement both styles. For example, hardwood flooring is versatile and works well with modern and traditional home decor.
Walls
The walls in your home are essentially blank canvases that you can use to express your styles. Whether you choose to paint them, add stylish wallpapers, or hang art pieces, walls are versatile and can be easily changed over time.
If one spouse prefers a minimalist look while the other has a penchant for boho-chic, consider painting walls in a neutral shade and then adding colorful wall hangings or tapestries that can be easily swapped out. Remember, your walls should reflect both of your styles, creating a blend that tells your unique story as a couple.
Take it Slow
If you’ve just moved in together or recently tied the knot, take your time deciding what style fosters your personal tastes. Buy items one at a time and make decisions together.
This will give you plenty of time to get used to each other’s style choices and come up with a cohesive style that you’ll both love. Keep in mind that blending styles is a journey, and it takes time to get to know each other’s likes, dislikes, and preferred styles.
If possible, try to rule that any significant purchases must be approved by both of you. This will avoid major design hiccups and costly mistakes in the long run.
Finding a decorating style that works for both you and your spouse should be a fun and memorable experience. It’s about understanding each other’s preferences, learning how to communicate effectively, and working together to create a beautiful, comfortable, and functional living space that reflects both of your personalities. Merging styles takes patience, creativity, and a willingness to compromise, but the end result is well worth all the efforts. So, grab a cup of tea and get started on merging your styles today.