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Create Character With Contrast
Rustic and modern, casual and formal ... mixing contradictory design elements makes rooms add up to much more than the sum of their parts
Before undertaking any design project, it is important to have a direction in mind. But sometimes being too formulaic can feel predictable. The definition of juxtaposition is "the state of being side by side." In the design world, the connotation of juxtaposition is that those side-by-side elements might seem contradictory at first but, when combined properly, take the room to a whole new level. It's a fine line, but when executed well, juxtaposition keeps things fresh and ensures that your scheme doesn't feel boring. Adding a whimsical spin to a formal room or a traditional piece to a modern space can liven the whole house. Here are a few of our favorite ways to utilize juxtaposition to give you home a flair all its own.
The kitchen is one of our favorite rooms for juxtaposition. Combining wood with steel and chrome gives touches of both the rustic and modern, things that every room needs.
Modern frosted glass, shimmering tiles and vessel sinks make for modern, fabulous bathrooms, but sometimes they need a hint of something to bring them back to earth. The traditional wood chest on which the vessel sink is mounted grounds this look.
One of the trickiest feats in design is creating houses that make everyone in the family feel comfortable. Combining the masculine and feminine, dark with light and modern with traditional ensures that everyone in the house is represented.
Outdoor seating areas can quickly become the favorite room in the house. A beautiful view is a great start, and great architecture lays the foundation for a fabulous living space. The gorgeous formal columns on this porch blend seamlessly with the construction of the house, while a wood pergola and casual furniture lend a welcoming and relaxing feel.
When it comes to kitchens, the juxtaposition of wood and marble is a classic, winning combination. The wood adds a masculine depth to contrast with the light, airy marble.
This is juxtaposition at its finest. The French chair, mirrored side table and over-the-top gilt frame mixed with the chunky, masculine wood table and pictures are amazing. This master truly considers multiple tastes and melds them seamlessly.
Fine dining doesn't have to involve perfectly rounded, polished mahogany tables. A farm table is one of our favorite ways to seat a crowd. And there's no reason rustic seating has to involve a matchy light fixture. Pair it with a glamorous chandelier, mirrored sideboard and modern art to combine character and glamour. Talk about dining in style!
There's nothing like a rustic farmhouse to make for a laid-back, relaxing weekend retreat. But who wants to sacrifice their modern chef's kitchen? This gorgeous sparkling tile backsplash juxtaposes the unfinished wood beams perfectly for a feel that's both woodsy and a cook's haven.
More:
High-Impact Contrasts
High-Contrast Kitchens for Every Style
More:
High-Impact Contrasts
High-Contrast Kitchens for Every Style