Blending Spaces
How to Harmonize Styles with Your Significant Other
At Soulhouse, we believe that homes are more than just physical spaces—they’re soulful expressions of the people who live in them. But when two people with distinct styles come together, designing a home can feel more like a compromise than a collaboration. We’re here to tell you it doesn’t have to be that way! Mixing styles isn’t just about blending furniture; it’s about creating a space where both personalities shine.
Take us, for example: We are designing and building a home and Hope gravitates toward a modern 70s vibe, complete with quirky art, bold patterns, and kilim rugs that add texture and character. Seth, on the other hand, loves a Western modern Americana feel, complete with rustic wood touches, leather furniture, and American flags. At first glance, these styles might seem worlds apart. But with a little creativity, we’re designing a new home with a harmonious blend that feels distinctly “us.” Here’s how you can do it too:
1. Find Common Ground
Start by identifying what you both value in a home. Maybe it’s comfort, functionality, or a specific color palette. For us, it was creating a space that felt inviting and full of stories. This shared goal became our foundation.
For example, Seth’s rustic wood accents pair beautifully with the colorful tones in Hope’s kilim rugs. By focusing on warm, natural materials, we found a bridge between our two styles.
2. Prioritize Signature Pieces
Each partner should have at least one standout piece that speaks to their style. For Hope, it’s her colorful tile choices. For Seth, it’s a vintage leather armchair that looks like it came straight out of a Western saloon. These pieces become focal points that add character and keep both voices present.
3. Layer Textures and Patterns
Combining different textures and patterns can help unify diverse aesthetics. Hope’s kilim rugs and patterned pillows bring in vibrant, geometric energy, while Seth’s rustic wood furniture and antique accents ground the space with rugged authenticity. Together, these elements create a layered look that feels cohesive yet dynamic.
4. Mix and Match Materials
Instead of choosing one material for everything, mix them up! Pair a sleek, mid-century modern couch with a chunky wooden console. Combine velvet and leather upholstery. The contrast between Hope’s modern 70s pieces and Seth’s Americana touches creates visual interest and ensures neither style overpowers the other.
5. Create Zones for Different Vibes
Not every space has to be a perfect blend. Designating zones for each person’s style can add personality throughout the home. For instance, the workshop might lean heavily into Western Americana, complete with framed American flags and a worn leather furniture, while the mudroom will embrace bold colors, quirky art, and a vintage credenza.
6. Embrace the Unexpected
Sometimes, the most exciting designs come from unexpected combinations. We love how a 70s-inspired surfer art hangs above Seth’s reclaimed wood console, or how Hope’s funky ceramic vases sit alongside Seth’s collection of old books. These moments of contrast make our home uniquely ours.
7. Communicate and Compromise
Finally, remember that the goal isn’t to win—it’s to create a home that reflects your shared life together. Talk openly about what matters most to you, and be willing to let go of things that don’t fit the bigger picture. Trust us: the result will be worth it.
Your Turn!
Whether you’re blending boho and industrial, farmhouse and modern, or something entirely unique, we’re here to help. At Soulhouse, we specialize in creating spaces that feel personal, balanced, and oh-so-soulful. Let us help you design a home that’s as dynamic and layered as your relationship.
