Designing a Home Together: 5 Tips for Couples with Different Interior Design Styles
At Sarah Jacquelyn Interiors, we often work with couples who love each other dearly—but don’t quite love the same design styles. Maybe one partner loves clean, minimalist modern design, while the other dreams in color and pattern. The good news? Creating a beautiful, functional home that reflects both of your personalities is not only possible—it’s one of our favorite challenges to solve. If you're searching for an interior designer in Chicago who understands the dynamics of shared style, these tips will help get you started.
Photo Credit: Sarah Jacquelyn Interiors
1. Start with Open Dialogue and Inspiration Boards
Before diving into any purchases, we encourage couples to each create a mood board or Pinterest board with interiors that resonate with them. Sharing visuals instead of just using words like “modern” or “rustic” helps clarify what you both love—and where your styles might naturally overlap. This step builds mutual understanding and lays the groundwork for a unified design vision. If you're struggling to get started, a professional interior designer can help interpret those preferences and find common threads.
2. Identify Shared Goals and Non-Negotiables
The next step is to have an honest discussion about what's most important to each of you—whether it's functionality, comfort, specific color schemes, or family-friendly furniture. Establishing a few shared goals (like maximizing storage or creating an inviting entertaining space) will help you both stay focused. Meanwhile, acknowledging each other's design “must-haves” helps avoid friction down the line.
3. Choose a Neutral Base, Then Layer In Personality
One tried-and-true tip for blending differing styles is to start with a neutral, cohesive foundation. A consistent color palette, clean-lined furniture, and timeless finishes give you a strong starting point. From there, each person can express their personality through layered accessories like art, pillows, throws, or accent furniture. This creates a balanced space that doesn’t feel like either partner is compromising too much.
4. Balance Contrasts With Complementary Design Elements
It’s totally fine (and beautiful!) to mix styles—like pairing an industrial coffee table with a traditional tufted sofa. The key is balance. We often use symmetry, repetition, and complementary materials to help opposing design elements feel intentional rather than clashing. For example, combining metal finishes or using color blocking techniques can make modern and vintage pieces feel cohesive. Blending interior design styles can create a home that's more interesting and personal than following a single aesthetic.
5. Work with a Professional Interior Designer as a Mediator
When you're trying to blend two very different design perspectives, working with a Chicago interior designer can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. A designer acts as a neutral third party, helping you find thoughtful compromises and make confident choices that reflect both of you. At Sarah Jacquelyn Interiors, we specialize in helping couples bring their shared vision to life—with less stress and more joy.
Let’s Create a Home You Both Love
Differing tastes shouldn’t keep you from creating your dream home together. With the right approach and a trusted design partner, your combined styles can result in a space that feels harmonious, beautiful, and uniquely yours. Ready to start your project? Visit us at our WORK WITH US page and let’s talk about how we can help.
Photo Credit: Sarah Jacquelyn Interiors
