10 Elements of Interior Design That Go Against The Norm

In design, like in life, expression can be a form of rebellion. And in interior design, rebellion may be design and home furnishing choices that aren’t conventional. Today we’ll look at some elements of interior design that go against the grain.

Interior design elements can be used to challenge traditional norms and express a rebellious spirit. By incorporating unconventional furniture, vibrant colors, and bold patterns, homeowners can create a unique space that reflects their individual style and spirit of rebellion.

The Anti Trend In Interior Design

Interior design trends can sometimes feel transient and dull, really lacking individuality and inspiration. However there’s something to be said for taking a bold stand against the status quo and decorating your home in an entirely different direction.

Not following the trends can be a form of rebellion in and of itself, as it goes against what’s popular for the current season. From unconventional paint jobs to introducing odd looking furniture into a space, interior design has a way of breaking the rules visually and aesthetically.

What I find the most exciting and interesting about interior design is some interior designers or home decorators ability to create a concept-based space that bends the rules. Sometimes you want to create a space that is rebellious and unexpected, while other times it’s about pushing the boundaries of what feels comfortable for your own home.

On the other hand, sometimes what feels comfortable in your home may not necessarily be functional or embraced by others. Interior design that goes against the grain will grab your attention in some sort of unexpected way.

Disrupting the norms of design isn’t just for editorial magazines. As you create and incorporate elements that you love in your home, you may find that you’re sense of style doesn’t necessarily fit in a box and isn’t on trend and that’s ok! Once you decide what you really want out of your space you’ll be able to slowly match your intentions for it with the aesthetics.

Experimenting With Design Elements

There are many design elements in interior design some of which include accessories and home furnishings. Another way to rebel against the conventional world is to experiment with design elements. This could include introducing unconventional colors and textures, or playing around with shapes and sizes of furniture.

You can also try to mix things like different kinds of materials such as wood, metal, stone or glass. When experimenting with these elements you can create something unique that is not just a reflection but an extension of your personality.

Elements Of Interior Design That Can Be Unconventional:

1. Bold Color Choices
2. Creative Lighting
3. Unexpected Patterns
4. Repurposed Furniture
5. Artwork & Collectibles
6. Unexpected Placement
7. Uncommon Paint Job
8. Amplify Your Negative Spaces
9. Daring Fabrics & Textures
10. Creative Space Saving

1. Bold Color Scheme:

Try using unusual color combinations that feel right to you. Using color blocking techniques while still choosing complementary colors that go together in a space, can easily create a unique statement in your home. Even if the colors are complementary at some level, they may not be so expected in a space like this example above.

Vibrant shades and unexpected combinations can be used to create an invigorating space that stands out from the crowd. Pairing color choices with your decor is another wow factor, particularly these biophilic design instances where adding plant life to the space is amplified with the color green.

2. Creative Lighting:

Soft lighting or dramatic fixtures are often used to emphasize architectural elements in a room, and creative lighting can turn any area into something special. Let go of convention and interesting accent lighting or task lighting. Explore options like sconces, chandeliers, and lighted artwork for a unique look that’s all your own.

3. Unexpected Patterns & Textures:

Try mixing different patterns and textures for an unconventional style that still works as one cohesive design element. This is especially effective when different patterns and textures are used in combination to define unity in design. Vertical lines and horizontal lines, for example, can be used together to create a unique aesthetic. Additionally, incorporating elements of surprise such as unexpected colors and textures will give the space a rebellious twist.

Visual texture and pattern add appeal, visual interest to interior design and is quite commonly used to create a focal point. Pattern and visual texture can truly impact the look of your entire space so take careful consideration.

4. Repurposed Furniture:

Shopping for unique furnishings can be pricey, but you can easily create a one-of-a-kind look through upcycling furniture and giving it a new purpose. For example, turn an old dresser into a bar cart or find uses for unused objects that may have been overlooked in the past.

5. Artwork & Collectibles:

Instead of using traditional artwork like framed paintings and photographs, why not go with something more personal or even custom? Use your own art creations, family heirlooms, antique finds, and other collectibles to show off your individual style. How about an oversized piece of art like a wall mural? A large piece of artwork on the wall draws attention and makes for an effective focal point in a room.

6. Unexpected Placement:

Unexpected Placement of furnishings in your home is a great way to make your home stand out. Creative placement of furniture and accessories will help you create a look that’s unique and personal to your home.

Both positive space and negative space in inteiror design have the potential to be rebellious. For example, placing a piece of furniture in an unexpected corner or juxtaposing a brightly colored accent chair in an empty white corner can create an eye-catching and rebellious look. By playing around with placement, homeowners can create a room that’s unconventional yet still functional.

Also, be sure to consider how much space you have available before deciding on any placement of furniture. Adding unexpected accents like vintage rugs or mid-century modern lighting fixtures can also create an interesting look for your home.

Putting things in unexpected places can be a great way to make your home stand out. For example, hang a large piece of art in the hallway or switch up the placement of furniture. Using unexpected materials is also a great way to create something different. Working with uncommon materials too can be just as effective when it comes to creating an interesting space.

7. Uncommon Paint Job:

Instead of going with the same solid colors you see everywhere, why not try something more creative? Paint can be used to create a sense of warmth, add texture to walls and ceilings, or even make bold statements in your decorations. With the right paint job, you can make any room unique and inviting!

Whether you choose a bright, daring color or opt for a more subtle option, paint can be used to create an atmosphere of fun and excitement. From murals to stripes and unique textures, painters have the tools to make your home stand out.

Use stencils or paint techniques to create patterns and designs that are bold yet stylish. Even where you decide to paint in your home is a major design element that can be uncommon such as painting ceilings.

8. Amplify Your Negative Spaces

There’s usually two types of decorators: one that has to add to every square inch of the home and one that likes their spaces bare with some furnishings. And somewhere in between is everyone else. When most people think of negative space, they think of the empty areas in between objects. But in design, negative space is so much more than that!

Negative space can be used to create interest, add balance, and even make a design appear larger or smaller. From adding visual interest with pattern to using light and dark colors to create contrast, these tips will help you make the most of every square inch in your home!

9. Daring Fabrics & Textiles:

Try mixing different textiles and fabrics to create a bold look that still feels unified. Mixing velvet, silk, wool, and cotton are all great options that add a unique element to the room. Whether you go for the rustic charm of leather or the shiny glamour of silk, daring fabric choices can give any room an interesting twist. Tactile elements in interior design are important!

10. Creative Space Saving:

A great way to exercise your rebellious spirit while also being practical is by getting creative with space saving solutions. Opting for curved lines in your room’s furnishings versus straight lined can be a great room to save space.

Curvy or abstract shapes actually add more of a visual element to your living space as well. In fact organic forms and natural shapes are a  great way to save on space because they don’t require as much space to be taken up, while also adding more of an interesting dynamic.

Built-in furniture, wall beds, and other pieces that can be folded away when not in use can help conserve space while still looking stylish. These unconventional methods of storage make for a unique look that you won’t find in the average home.

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These are just a few elements for creating an unconventional look in your home. With the right elements, you can create something truly unique that expresses who you are and sets your home apart from the rest. So don’t be afraid to take risks and get creative, that’s what designing your own space is all about! Have fun with it and let your personality shine through in every element of your design. Good luck!

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