How seamlessly mix masculine and feminine style in your home

Combining two different styles into one home can feel like an impossible task. With so many decisions to make and many options to choose from, it can feel challenging to find a happy medium. Designer Natalie Chong shared her top tips with us on how to blend masculine and feminine style under one roof. 

DIFFERENCES BETWEEN MASCULINE AND FEMININE DESIGN

When it comes to defining "masculine" and "feminine" style, there are many elements that go beyond common perceptions. Many people that gravitate towards feminine styles are actually into masculine details too! Both design styles can work together a lot easier than you may think! 

"Masculine" design style typically uses earthy colour tones such as grays, browns and shades of black. When it comes to furniture, anything sleek with straight edges works into this style. Textiles tend to stay on the solid, striped or plaid side while popular finishes are concrete, steel and leather. 

On the other hand, "Feminine" design style makes use of muted colour tones such as pastels. Fabric patterns include floral and damask while textiles are cotton, silk and velvet. Furniture and accessories that fall under this style are usually more ornate than functional.

GROUND THE SPACE WITH NEUTRALS

As inspired as you might be by bold and unique Pinterest photos, combining two different styles is a lot easier with a neutral and natural base. A great way to do this is by using a neutral jute rug that isn't too far into one style or the other. It will allow your space to balance out all the other details that you'll add on later. 

COMPROMISE ON FOCAL POINTS

Relationships are about compromise, and so is combing styles! Rather than designating a room per person, work together to blend your styles throughout the house. A good tip of any room of the house is to choose the 2 largest pieces and go from there. For example, when designing a living room you could start by focusing on the wall paint and the sofa. By choosing 2 pieces, each person gets a majority say in one of them! Whether you end up with light walls and a leather sofa or darker walls and a bright velvet sofa, the combination of both styles will showcase beautifully if it's not overpowering. 

ADD LOTS OF TEXTURE

If you find that a certain room is starting to lean more towards one style than another, adding texture is the perfect way to even it all out. No matter what your style is, having fun with pillows, lighting and decor will help bring life into your space. If your living room is focused around a "masculine" sofa, adding in a few bohemian pieces that are natural in aesthetic but also true to "feminine" style will help create a noticeable balance. 

GO BOLD WITH ART

Creating a home is all about adding special personal touches. And what better way to do that than with an amaznig piece of art? Even if you're not the biggest fan of bold colours, adding it in sparingly never hurt! Frame details are just as important as the piece of art so opt for something that represents both styles. Choosing a piece of art that both people are happy with is a unique way to show the blending on styles. Try and find a cohesive theme of art that you can carry throughout your home.