Balance Your Masculine and Feminine Decor
Everyone wants their home to have a sense of harmony. Much of this desired feeling results in being mindful of creating balance in your space. This does not just pertain to having a level of symmetry in furniture placement and decor; it has to do with much more.
In feng shui, the ancient Chinese art and science of energy flow, Yin (passive energy) and Yang (active energy)are associated with the feminine and masculine characteristics of objects in your home. Having more of one over the other creates an imbalance; the presence and interaction of both nourishes each.
Among other attributes, Yin is represented by that which is slower, softer, flexible, and feminine. Yang is found in that which is faster, harder, rigid, and masculine. There are certain rooms in which either Yin or Yang elements are appropriate; Yin in a bathroom and Yang in a kitchen, for example. Yet, being aware of having a balance of both can often enhance the home environment as a whole.
With this in mind, step back and observe your home. Is there a tendency to have soft colors or vibrant ones? Are there many straight lines and angular pieces of furniture? Is there a definite preference of one material used over another like wood or metal?
Part of balancing you home is being able to identify masculine and feminine design inclinations. Interior design-wise, there are several aspects of Yin and Yang that apply with a few more traits that are easily visible.
Masculine design:
• earthy color tones (grays, browns, and shades of black)
• occasional pops of color
• furniture is sleek with straight edges
• textiles are found in solids, stripes, and plaid
• concrete, steel, and leather are popular finishes
• art is bold in size and concept
Feminine design
• muted color tones such as pastels
• softness is found in fabric patterns (floral, damask)
• textiles are soft to touch (cotton, silk, velvet)
• furniture is more ornate than functional
• ambient lighting is important
• accessories are key; they may have practical uses, but for the most part are there for decor
If you find a space is leaning too much to one side, apply a little of the “opposite”. Drape a leather arm chair with a soft throw or quilt. Consider painting your wall a masculine gray color and incorporating a feminine accent color like pale yellow. Place a decorative vase of flowers on top of your modern wooden credenza.
In design, masculine and feminine traits certainly reflect one’s style preference. Yet, being aware of how to subtly balance the two can harmonize an interior space in energetic ways that promote a healthy and lovely living environment.
Mix Masculine & Feminine Decor
Furniture
Shop Raeven Handmade Casual Boho Wool Area Rug, SAFAVIEH Couture Zhao Curved Loveseat and more
Shop Raeven Handmade Casual Boho Wool Area Rug and more
Shop SAFAVIEH Couture Zhao Curved Loveseat and more
When it comes to mixing masculine and feminine styles, it’s easiest to split masculine furniture and feminine decor. Start with dark woods and metals for bigger pieces, then bring in lush textures for your accents. Men tend to associate wood or metal furniture with an industrial aesthetic and can relate to it or appreciate it. Women are more sensory and appreciate softness and curves, which inspire comfort and pleasure.
For this room, I started with the large, rustic wood table and knew immediately I would need to bring in some softness. So I mixed it with a rust fabric accent chair to create contrast. That visual interest stimulates your eyes, making it exciting to look around! The same goes for the side table with soft wood and metal legs; this striking combination also gives the office a modern feel.
The earthy green couch adds to the moodier aspects of the room. With its trendy curved shape and velvety texture, it blends both masculine and feminine interior design in one beautiful piece of furniture.
Color
In most cases, dark masculine colors work best for the walls and furniture as the foundational aspects of the room. Here, the playful feminine home decor enhances the area as an accessory color. Had we done the opposite — trying to add bold masculine decor to delicate feminine furniture — it would have been harder to balance.
To me, color is made softer or richer by the texture being used. For example, petite pillows and whimsical throws can be used to break up a muted couch. It’s a subtle way to mix in smaller pops of soft shades with richer dark hues.
The best example is my favorite piece in this room: the artwork. It was my main inspiration for a home office that felt like it could work for anyone, and ultimately it decided the room’s color palette. The black background combined with bright florals reflects how the room is styled. One large piece of splashy artwork on a moody, masculine accent wall creates interest without overwhelming the space.
Texture & Pattern
When blending masculine and feminine home design, stick with dark colors as your main focus. Then use texture and pattern to give your room life and personality. Here, straight lines and geometric patterns lean into masculine design because the sharp lines create form and function. The glam of the florals, furs, and velvets invite more feminine vibes. Similarly, choosing to use these light, fabric ottomans instead of office chairs lends a sense of softness. Upholstery can be a shortcut for feminine home decor, especially when fun patterns make an appearance (like in the throw pillows).
Accessories
If you’re trying to incorporate each of your own personal styles to a shared space, scatter small decor or unique treasures you may have collected through the years! It’s a simple way for each of you to feel represented.
In this office, a wooden vintage lamp is paired with a delicate vase; the dark stain of the wood contrasts with the slender, rounded shape of the vase. Likewise, the ornate feminine design of the flashy gold mirror is placed against a sturdy wood accent wall. Meanwhile, the pastels of the floral arrangement on the side table soften the matte finish and stout body of its modern black vase. On that note: using plenty of plants can always balance a gender neutral style. To bring in that extra dose of personality, consider a vintage-inspired pedestal instead of a plant stand.
