Elements of design: Pattern

How to use pattern in the home

After years of minimalism with its carefully curated, calm neutrals, maximalism is back - and the more colour and pattern the better! Using vibrant colours and rich textured patterns across upholstery, curtains, cushions, throws and lampshades is definitely having a moment in interior design.

While there’s no doubt that introducing patterns into your home is a great way to add visual interest, and express your personality, it may feel a little intimidating. But never fear. If you follow our simple rules on how to embrace patterns, you too can start to have fun with them and achieve a vibrant and harmonious look at the same time.

Interior watercolour by SJ Axelby @sjaxelby

1. UNDERSTAND TYPES OF PATTERN

Geometric
Always a favourite and very big in the 1960s, geometric patterns focus on repeated shapes – circles, squares, triangles and a host of polygons that are ideal if you want to create a fresh, modern or retro look.

Herringbone & chevrons
Herringbone is a zigzag created by alternating diagonal lines, while chevrons consist of continuous V shapes. These patterns are popular in flooring as they add movement and sophistication to a busy space such as a hallway or living room.

Stripes
A classic stripe can be used horizontally, vertically or diagonally and is excellent for tricking you into thinking a room is higher, wider or longer than it is. Go bold and dramatic or subtle and understated.

Checks and plaids
From gingham to tartan, checks have a heritage feel about them and are a brilliant way to add subtle colour to your scheme, perfect for a rustic or traditional interior.

Florals and botanicals
The natural world has inspired designers from the dawn of time; flowers, ferns, vines and leaves lend themselves soft furnishings and remain a strong feature of country house style today. As well as adding a touch of nature, floral patterns bring elegance and softness to your surroundings.

Paisley
Despite its distinctly Scottish name, paisley originates from Kashmir in India. If you are looking to add a touch of bohemia or vintage style, you cannot go wrong with paisley teardrop patterns.

Checks & Stripes - Cottage Stripe fabrics

Geometric - Watercolour Leaf fabrics

Paisley - Cavendish fabrics

Botanical - Fabric in Woodland

2. THINK ABOUT THE EFFECT YOU WANT TO ACHIEVE

Modern: Embrace bold geometric patterns and abstract designs in areas you wish to make a focal point. Keep the rest of the decor minimal to let the patterns stand out.

Traditional: Opt for classic patterns like damasks, paisleys, or florals. Think folksy, use lace and or Skandi influences that can be used in rich, ornate fabrics and wallpapers and mixed with vintage finds or heritage pieces.

Eclectic: Mix and match various patterns and styles. Juxtapose modern, architectural furniture, lighting or stand out pieces with florals, antiques and vintage inspired colours, wallpaper or soft furnishings. This approach blends different elements into a unique, personalized space.

Scallop Wall Lights on bold patterned wallpaper @uns.hobbs_interiors
Pic by Boz Gagovski @box_gagovski

3. INTRODUCE PATTERN GRADUALLY

If you are not sure how much pattern you want in a room, start small by using it in specific areas such as curtains, lampshades, cushions, rugs, or throws that can be moved around and exchanged. Then you can experiment without overwhelming the space. If you are happy with the results and want more, introduce similar colours or patterns evenly throughout the room to keep a sense of balance.

1 Gang Button Switch in matt black

Cushion & curtains in Indigo Woodland

4. CREATE A FOCAL POINT

Patterns can be used to create focal points in a room. A patterned feature wall, statement rug or statement light will draw the eye and set the tone for the space. When using patterns, ensure they stand out by surrounding them with neutral elements that allow the pattern to shine without visual clutter.

Interior by Uns Hobbs @uns.hobbs_interiors
Pic by Boz Gagovski @box_gagovski

5. CONSIDER SCALE

Make sure the patterns you choose are in proportion to the size of the room - the larger the room, the larger the patterns you can get away with. Similarly, scale down for smaller rooms. Designers often focus on one large scale print to create a bold statement such as on an upholstered chair, sofa or ottoman, then mix it with a smaller patterns for curtains and soft furnishings. This way you can achieve a varied but cohesive look.

6. LAYER UP

A trick for a successful scheme is to use no more than 3 patterns in a room. If you group them together within the same colour family, you will add to the sense of harmony and balance. Ensure the patterns don’t clash by varying their sizes and keep some elements more subdued.

Red kitchen with Single Howard wall light

Red kitchen colour scheme by SJ Axelby @sjaxelby

7. BALANCE WITH COLOUR

When integrating patterns into your decor, coordinate them with your room’s colour palette. Patterns should complement, rather than compete with the room’s primary colours. For example, a monochromatic room can be livened up with a bold patterned rug, while a room with multiple colours might benefit from patterned elements that echo the existing hues. To avoid a feeling of clutter, balance your patterned items with solid blocks of colour on large surfaces, such as floors, carpets and walls as this will ground the patterned elements.