Style Fusion: How Mixing Styles Together Helps You Evolve with Chad Graci
In this episode of the Slow Style Home podcast, I have a delightful conversation with designer Chad Graci. We discuss defining personal style, blending different styles, and the importance of balance in design. Chad shares his eclectic approach, influenced by travel and a mix of old and new elements. We explore merging styles in our own homes and the importance of investing in quality pieces. We touch on the big impact of tiny design rules like the significance of lighting and paying attention to lampshades. Lastly, we talk about the exciting connectivity and access to the design world through platforms like Instagram. Stay tuned for more inspiring conversations on the Slow Style Home podcast.
KEY TAKEAWAYS
In today's episode of the Slow Style Home podcast, we had the pleasure of sitting down with designer Chad Graci. Known for his expertise in mixing different styles to create unique and eclectic spaces, Chad shared his insights on defining personal style, finding the perfect balance, and knowing when it just works.
Defining Personal Style
One of the recurring themes in our conversation with Chad was the importance of defining your personal style. Chad emphasized that his own style is a culmination of experiences, from traveling to being in tune with his family's decorating choices. The result is a fusion of classic surroundings with a thoughtful and eclectic mix of elements. Chad's ability to draw inspiration from his experiences and integrate them into his work is what sets his style apart.
The Balancing Act
When it comes to merging different styles, Chad highlighted the significance of scale, appropriateness, and texture. He stressed that not all combinations work harmoniously, and sometimes it's a matter of trial and error. However, Chad's expertise allows him to intuitively sense when something clicks and feels right. Finding the balance between old and new, and looking for common threads that tie different pieces together, is what creates a cohesive and visually pleasing space.
Creating Conversations
An intriguing aspect of Chad's design philosophy is his focus on creating conversations between different elements in a room. Chad gave an example of pairing an industrial light fixture with a Biedermeier piece. While these two items may seem contrasting at first, he believes that they can have an obvious commonality that bridges the gap between different styles. This idea of conversation extends beyond furniture and decor—it also applies to how colors, patterns, and textures interact with each other, breathing life into a space.
Investing in Timeless Pieces
When it comes to spending money on home decor, Chad advises allocating funds towards items that will stand the test of time. He suggests investing in quality upholstery, rugs, and window treatments that will last for years. These timeless pieces create an envelope that forms the foundation of a space and can be built upon as styles evolve. Chad also emphasizes the importance of considering lighting, as it significantly affects the ambiance of a room. Warm lighting and well-chosen lampshades add depth and character to any space.
Design Rules of Thumb
While every home and situation is unique, Chad shared a couple of design rules of thumb that can help guide your choices. Firstly, pay attention to the lighting in your space, ensuring that it complements the rest of your design. Consider the warmth and color of the light to create the desired ambiance. Secondly, don't overlook the impact of lampshades. These often-underrated elements can make or break a room's aesthetic. Attention to detail in selecting lampshades can elevate your space and tie the design together.
Conclusion
As we wrapped up our conversation with Chad, we couldn't help but ask what excites him about the current design world. Chad pointed to the connectivity that platforms like Instagram have brought to designers and design enthusiasts alike. Through these platforms, Chad has been able to explore a world of design, connect with fellow designers, and discover unique pieces from across the globe. The ability to engage in conversations about design, share ideas, and draw inspiration has made the design community feel closer and more tightly knit.
Our conversation with Chad Graci offered invaluable insights into the world of interior design. From defining personal style to merging different styles, Chad's expertise demonstrates the art of creating unique and harmonious spaces. By investing in quality pieces, considering lighting, and paying attention to details, we can cultivate spaces that reflect our personality and stand the test of time. With the ever-expanding connectivity provided by social media platforms, the possibilities for design inspiration and collaboration are endless. As we continue to evolve in our understanding of design, let's embrace the magic of merging styles and create spaces that tell our individual stories.
I hope you found this conversation with Chad Graci as inspiring as I did, and I encourage you to explore the world of design with an open mind and an adventurous spirit.
Happy designing!
LINKS MENTIONED IN EPISODE Graci Interiors
PHOTOS PROVIDED BY CHAD GRACI
