In the creation of a new household, both parties must be represented. That is never truer than when decorating said household.

But if Party A has a country-chic aesthetic and a lot of knickknacks, and Party B has a modern clutter-free aesthetic, how can both parties be represented in one household’s decor?

Julie Cochran, owner of Decorating Den Interiors in Centerville, says that the process starts with taking inventory of furniture and accessories from both households and carefully deciding what should be kept.

“Things like high school sports trophies or your favorite toy growing up don’t need to have prominent places in the home,” said Laura Quinn, owner of Happyroost: Interiors by Laura Quinn in Dayton. “Plastic bins that can slide under a bed work wonders for those items you don’t want to display, but aren’t ready to part with.”

Compromise is essential in the success of any relationship, as well as when creating a home that reflects different styles.

“For roommates who live together it is important for each of them to have their own spaces to reflect their own personalities, but also to be courteous of others living there. Private spaces, such as a bedroom or office, are perfect opportunities for that person to do whatever they like in their own space,” Quinn said.

Compromise in design is even more important for married couples, said Quinn, because coveted private spaces like a home office or “man cave” may not be possible options, so couples may have to mix design styles throughout the home.

“Currently, ‘eclectic’ design is big, and it helps when two people have two different styles. It’s OK to mix and match two or more styles in a room as long as the room has a nice flow and the house flows from room to room. Make sure to incorporate things that both people love and look forward to gathering new items together as a couple,” Quinn said.

Cochran said that finishing touches like a decorative pillow in a patterned fabric that picks up colors from a couple of blended pieces will unify a room.

Despite the best attitudes, two people with differing opinions may need outside help to unite their vision.

“If the obstacles are so opposite in taste and style, a third party is a perfect solution. A designer can help bridge the gap between varying styles and bring forth a beautiful design that will over joy both partners,” said Winnie Cleavenger, owner of Winteriors in Dayton.

Molly Williams, owner of Ivy Designs in Miamisburg, helped a couple combine their tastes.

“His style is traditional with a love of dark woods and antiques. She is contemporary and loves clean lines and smooth surfaces. We purchased a new sofa and chairs to bridge both styles and added custom shelving, built by Bob Kniess, in the great room and office to hold their many pictures, books and mementos,” Williams said. “They decided on new bedroom furniture and kept many of their original accessories, including antique lamps, a beautiful marble table and settee.”

Halting all decorative endeavors can give a budding household new perspective and help couples or roommates to devise a plan.

“Live in the space for a month or two before going all out and buying stuff to fill the rooms,” Quinn said.