The New Eclectic: Embracing Whimsy, Craft, and Character in Interiors
- Emma Cate McCarthy
- Apr 28
- 2 min read
In the world of interior design today, personality reigns supreme. Spaces are shedding rigid minimalism and embracing an eclectic, joyful spirit — and it’s not about chaotic layering, but about curating objects that tell a story.
Whimsy Woven In
From checkered chairs with woven cane seats to sculptural light fixtures that feel more like art installations than functional objects, furniture and accessories are no longer merely utilitarian. Designers are leaning into pieces that offer a wink of humor, a sense of nostalgia, or an unexpected twist — like sconces shaped as expressive theatrical masks or lamps that combine bold architectural forms with playful finishes.
Craft Is King
Handmade details and artisanal craftsmanship are taking center stage. There’s a tactile richness to this new wave of interiors: cane weaving, natural patinas, and hand-carved woods infuse spaces with soul. In a world where fast design dominates, clients are craving authenticity — pieces that show the hand of the maker, not the machine.
Saturated and Sun-Faded
Color trends are moving into more complex territory. Think: saturated jewel tones that feel like they’ve been gently weathered by time. Vintage-inspired armchairs in sun-bleached velvets or ochre leathers are paired with contemporary coffee tables in soft stone, creating a dialogue between eras without feeling heavy-handed.
The Collected Look, Elevated
Forget perfectly matching sets — interiors now celebrate the thoughtful juxtaposition of objects. A brushed steel bookcase filled with art books and quirky ceramics. An art wall that pairs classic black-and-white portraiture with abstract canvases and brutalist lamps. It’s about mixing the intellectual with the irreverent, creating a home that feels personal, lived-in, and endlessly inspiring.
Key Takeaways for Design Lovers:
Invest in one or two playful, conversation-starting pieces.
Prioritize craftsmanship and handmade details over mass production.
Embrace rich, slightly faded color palettes.
Mix vintage finds with contemporary staples for a collected, layered look.
Let your home reflect your story — not a showroom floor.
After all, the most beautiful homes are the ones that feel like nobody else's.
xo, Emma
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