How to Create Timeless Interiors

Everything doesn’t have to match

with ALIDAD — Renowned designer famed for his opulent interiors. AD100, House & Garden Top 100, Elle Decor A-List.

Lesson 23 of 35

Rated 4.6/5 on Trustpilot
|

Learn from the world's best creative minds on Create Academy

Everything doesn’t have to match - Video thumbnail

Subscribe to watch

Alidad loves a room where nothing truly matches. In this lesson, you'll learn from Alidad how to create a home that looks spectacular by using mismatched things that range from odd chairs to tables.

From the Lesson Workbook

Everything Doesn't Have to Match

A room I love is one where nothing really matches. I use odd things, from tables, chairs and sofas. Chairs don't need to be paired, rather, they should just occupy the same volume. So the eye sees two different chairs but because they are the same size, you can accept it.

I am not a fan of symmetry. Symmetry doesn't allow a space to feel as if it has evolved with time. If a painting is above a console, it becomes a unit and they become something on their own. Having odd furniture helps in making a room not predictable and adds an element of intrigue.

You can also use different periods and different countries within a space. Provided everything fits and the overall look is ok then it is fine.

Taking Inspiration from Stately Homes

I visit stately homes and really recommend you all do to. Whilst visiting a stately home, I quickly realised nothing matches in a stately home.

Comfort

The English understand comfort. No matter how grand the room may be, there is comfort and an easy, natural flow. Stately homes are usually open from April to October.

Difficult Spaces

Once you give a space a purpose and function you are able to change it completely.

Get the full workbook, video lessons, and more with a Create Academy subscription.

Subscribe to access the full workbook
Access all courses SALE 20% OFF
$24 /month $30

Access 57+ courses, billed annually

Subscribe Now
Buy this course SALE 20% OFF
$136 one-time $170

Lifetime access to this course

Buy Course

Already a member? Sign in to watch

Rated 4.6/5 on Trustpilot

479 reviews

Read more

Interior and exterior confidence

Create Academy has been such a great resource. I'm in the middle of renovating a bungalow with a very large garden and the courses have offered a wealth of inform...

Harvey

Jun 10, 2026

Absolutely love Create Academy

Absolutely love Create Academy! The instructors are extremely informative, and it is beautifully filmed. Create Academy is great value for money and plan on renew...

SG

May 31, 2026

Magic in small spaces

Butter's creativity is stunning! Her ability to incorporate brilliance in small gardens is magical!

Carla

May 30, 2026

The best adventure

The best adventure. I like all the courses, but my favorite are both Rita Konig interior design courses and Anna Jones. Excellent!

Karolina Kluczewska

May 20, 2026

Alidad

Your Instructor

Alidad

Renowned designer famed for his opulent interiors. AD100, House & Garden Top 100, Elle Decor A-List.

Award-winning interior designer Alidad is world-renowned for his decadent yet homely interiors full of colour, richness and life. He is an expert at creating opulent, elegant rooms that combine comfort with behind-the-scenes practicality. Based in Mayfair, the Iranian-born interior designer Alidad has worked on some of the finest interiors in the world from new residences to period homes and the restoration of historic houses.

Access to all courses

Get access to unlimited learning with a Create Academy subscription