Mix or Match?

The time-old question – should furniture be mixed or matched?  The majority of designers and trade magazines will suggest mixing furniture to add character to a room, yet furniture stores still sell room sets.  My mom and sister both prefer buying furniture sets, whereas I tend to combine various pieces.  So which is right for you?  Here are a few pros, cons, and examples to help you decide.

 Matching Sets

via Sectional Reviews

 Pro:  With a matching furniture set, any other furniture you may need to get is easier to find because you have only one design to pair it with.

Con:  Sets tend to pidgeon-hole a room with a specific look or time-period more so than several pieces collected over time that complement rather than match exactly.

 

via Modern Home Designs



Pro:   Rooms become easier to decorate when all the furniture is exactly the same and can act as a jumping point for accessories.

Con:  Sets bring very little personality to a space and can come across as dull.  Your room can very easily look like several others' who bought the same set.

via Furniture Bedroom



Pro:  Most value furniture stores and big box companies sell furniture in sets, making it easy if you are in need of something quickly.

Con:  Spaces can feel cluttered when too much of the same color, pattern, and texture are in such close proximity. 

Mixing Items

via Elle Decor



Pro:  If a specific piece speaks to you, it can be incorporated into a room without looking out of place.

Con:  Mixing items that complement one another can require a lot of time, thought, and energy.





via Chinoiserie Chic



Pro:  Mixing modern and traditional pieces can keep a room looking timeless, which can mean less major overhauls will be needed, saving money in the long run.

Con:  Without some continuity or repition, the space can feel overwhelming or disorganized.



Janette Mallory via House Beautiful

 




Pro:  Rooms become more interesting when pieces are unique and create places for your eye to gravitate towards.

Con:  Buying separates can become more costly than a set, depending on the amount of time you are willing to spend or places you search.

What do you think?  Which do you prefer, mixing or matching?
Check back tomorrow for a follow-up post on how to mix furniture succcessfully!