How to Decorate as a Couple with Different Styles (and What to do When You Disagree)
We see it all the time. House Hunters is infamous for showing couples that have opposite tastes and can’t seem to agree on anything. One likes rustic traditional designs while the other likes clean, modern, and light. It makes for good TV, yes, but it’s also real life.
I’m counting my lucky stars Jordon and I – for the most part – share similar decorating styles.
Learning how to decorate as a couple when you have different styles is a common question. And I get it. We each have our own style we gravitate towards, so why would we want to leave it for something we like less?
Now, you might be thinking, “I’m the expert in decorating, so I’m just going to decorate how my little heart desires.” If you’re like me, you just can’t help yourself when it comes to throw pillows, candles, and lots of white. I still don’t understand what guys have against throw pillows…
As great as it seems calling all the decorating shots, you share your home with your partner so it’s only fair it’s equally as appealing to both of you, right?
No matter how opposite both of your styles are and how impossible it seems to mesh them together, there is a way to do it, and ensure you both love your home in the end.
I’m going to show you exactly how to combine your decorating style with your guy, while keeping your partnership in tact 🙂
Create A Pinterest Board
Create a Pinterest board with pins that reflect your style and include images your guy might like, too. Pin a variety of things like color schemes, furniture, and decor ideas. Try to pin at least 15-20 images so you have enough content to work with.
If you only pin one room and it’s full of pink, and then you tell your guy this is your style, he might be a little scared. In reality, your style is more than just the color pink, so pin several images that give your guy a better idea of what you like and include things you think you would both like.
If he’s up for it, have your guy create a separate Pinterest board with pins he likes to give you a better idea.
Once you have about 20 pins on your board, sit down and look at your board(s) together. Start an open conversation with him asking what he likes about each pin and what he doesn’t. This is a great way to discover the things he can tolerate, and what he can’t stand. It might help to take notes and identify several things you both like when reviewing pins.
For example, here are a few things that both Jordon and I like that I try to incorporate when decorating:
rustic/outdoor elements (antlers, rustic wood around our home)
animals (see horse print in our living room)
blue colors
clean designs
Hopefully, you both have things you can agree on like colors and types of furniture.
Don’t worry about agreeing on one specific “style” like mid-century modern or traditional and sticking to it. Because you’re combining each of your styles, there isn’t a cut and dry label for the result. Just focus on the things that make up YOUR style as a couple. It should be a combination of each of your styles.
Take Inventory
Now that you have a better understanding what he likes, take inventory of what furniture you both currently have. Is there anything that falls under the list you created of things you like and should keep? Is it time to retire the bachelor pad sofa? Maybe your pink tufted headboard has to go. Make sure there’s a clear give-and-take so no one feels pushed out or overrun by the other person’s decisions.
Go Shopping Together
When buying big-ticket items, always go shopping together. That way you both can look at many options and decide on the best fit you both like. Going together gets makes you both feel involved and it prevents hard feelings if you come home with a big purchase he doesn’t agree with.
One tip I suggest is make sure he has at least one comfortable piece of furniture in the living room he likes. The last thing you want is a tiny couch he can’t even sprawl out on, if that’s his thing. You’ll never hear the end of it.
He Probably Won’t Care As Much As You Do
Us girls can lose sleep over paint colors, but honestly, your guy probably doesn’t care THAT much. If you ask him to choose between Benjamin Moore White Dove or Cloud White, he’ll laugh and tell you there is no difference. Find something your guy cares about, like perhaps the electronics, and have him contribute in that area so he feels involved.
Compromise
Most importantly, you have to compromise to make it work. Discuss the most important things to you and listen to the most important things for him. If he absolutely hates the floral throw pillows, maybe keep them in the spare bedroom instead of the living room. Or just because he loves old records, doesn’t mean you need an entire room dedicated to them. You can frame a few of his favorites on a wall as a personal touch without going overboard.
If you’re patient, open-minded, and willing to find a happy medium, you will! Don’t be afraid to mix your different styles by incorporating all your favorite elements and personal touches.
I hope these tips are helpful for you and keep the peace in your home as your decorating.
With some patience and lots of compromise, you will find an aesthetic and style that suits you both perfectly.
What was the hardest part for you when decorating your home with your guy? Do you have any tips that made it easier for you? Did you buy something without his consent and now won’t live it down? I’d love to hear your stories!
