Lately, I’ve been completely obsessed with a more elevated, collected eclectic home decor look. Not minimal. Not maximal. Just layered, warm, and full of pieces that feel like they have a story, and truly bring a smile to your face.
I’ve been gravitating toward traditional-leaning pieces mixed with unexpected textures, rich wood tones, animal prints, marble, chrome, and a little bit of quiet glam. It feels polished without being overly precious. Classic without feeling stuffy.
This post is also the start of a new little series I’m calling Optional Must-Haves. A rotating collection of things that are absolutely not necessary but somehow feel completely essential to a beautiful, comfortable life. Not impulse buys (usually). Not necessary purchases (basically never). Just thoughtfully chosen pieces that elevate everyday spaces in a way that feels personal and a little indulgent (while still keeping you on budget).
This style is less about buying a matching set and more about assembling a room over time with things you genuinely love. The result feels collected, grounded, and interesting without trying too hard. Below are a few of my current optional must-haves for a warm, collected eclectic space.
(Note: some links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission if you purchase through them. It cost you nothing, just helps keep this blog running. So thank you for the support!)
The Optional Must-Haves
• Ottoman Foot Rest — Round Ottoman Stool with Solid Wood Spherical Orbs
A small piece that really brings a lot of character. The cheetah fabric + sculptural wood base feels vintage and modern in the best way.
• Bubble Candle Dish
Simple, sculptural, and surprisingly versatile. Works as a catch-all, tray, or the perfect addition to any candle.
• Olive Green Jacquard Ottoman — Upholstered Accent Footrest
There’s just something about patterned upholstery that instantly makes a room feel more layered, and less staged.
• Contemporary Accent Bench — Cream Leopard Jacquard Upholstery, Natural Oak Frame
Leopard is basically a neutral at this point. This one feels tailored and don’t even get me started on how much I love the scalloped accent.
• Walnut Ottoman Bench
Rich wood tones are doing a lot of heavy lifting in collected spaces right now. This piece is no different.
• Cross Frame Acrylic Book Holder
Acrylic keeps things light while adding a midcentury-modern accent that just never gets old.
• Marble Mushroom Table Lamp
Soft glow, sculptural shape, and just enough personality while still being a neutral piece that can mix with anything.
• 62-inch Tripod Floor Lamp
Clean lines that balance all the traditional textures happening elsewhere.
• Set of 3 Designer Faux Coffee Table Books
For when you want the look of a curated stack without dropping $60 a book. Bonus: these double as scrapbooks or journals.
• Silver Decorative Tray
Instant polish for consoles, vanities, or coffee tables.
• Mark Rothko Untitled Abstract Canvas Print
Modern art keeps traditional rooms from feeling too formal. As soon as I saw this one it was an instant favorite.
• Chrome Modern Floor Lamp
A little bit space-age, a little bit retro, but surprisingly neutral.
• 60″ High Gloss Burl Wood Buffet Sideboard
Burl wood is having a moment and honestly it deserves it. This piece looks far more expensive than it is.
• Velvet Accent Chair
Velvet always reads a little more polished. It also reads comfortable, which is always great in my book.
Final Thoughts
If you’re drawn to spaces that feel layered, warm, and a little storied, this collected eclectic approach is incredibly forgiving. You don’t need everything to match. You just need pieces that feel like they belong to the same life. Start with one or two items that make you unreasonably happy and build from there!
If you found something you love, save this post for later or share it with someone who appreciates a good optional must-have as much as you do.
And if you’re in a playful mood, you might also enjoy my post on Table Lamps That Are Anything But Boring, which follows the same philosophy of bringing a little more character into your home.
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