How to combine decorating styles, husband versus wife, with designer room photos.

I’m often asked how to combine two different decorating styles (example, when a husband’s style is completely different than the wife’s style). Believe it or not, it can easily be done, so that both people are happy with their surroundings.

Here are some recommended tips for combining decorating styles. If you have a wife, husband, roomate, or anyone else who has a say, these tips will help you combine styles.

1. Each of you should make a wish list (separately), keeping in mind your budget, room size limitations, and the way the room must function.
2. Browse through magazines, and pull photos of things that appeal to you. Note specifics such as “love this color” or “do not like this sofa because it’s too contemporary”.  Remember, a picture is worth a thousand words!
3. Now you can work together to view each other’s photos & lists, in order to make a joint list. It can be very specific such as “uncluttered” to less tangible such as “a warm and welcoming environment”.
4. Express where you can compromise, versus which things are of utmost importance to you.  

Still having trouble? Consider a one hour consultation with an experienced Interior Designer. They can pinpoint ways you can find styles that appeal to both of you!  Years of experience help them learn ways to get people to communicate and compromise.

Masculine wood tones for husband’s design style

Chair fabric – Wife noted as her color preference Dark island  – Husband’s noted as his wood preference Combining styles can work with proper communication

Man cave photo with sitting area in basement

Above: an example of combining “comfortable area for lounging” with a pool table for entertainment.

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