Decorating with Pattern: Fun and Inspiring Ideas

Getting creative with pattern is an inexpensive and fun way to breathe life into your home environments.  From wallpaper to towels, there are endless options to explore in order to achieve the look you want.  Many people like to play it safe by having one pattern with all solids in a given room. but I urge you to experiment by bringing in different kinds of patterns to create unexpected and unique combinations. Prints and patterns are also a fun and creative way to express your taste and personality.  Here are some important things to consider so you can decorate with patterns like a pro: 

Mix Patterns

Designers like things in odd numbers, especially the number three. Whether you're combining colors, patterns or decorative objects, three is often the magic number that just works best.  And it's no different when working with patterns in a room!  When selecting patterns, pick a large scale pattern that will make the strongest statement in your room.  For the secondary pattern, select a very different pattern that's half the scale or size of the first pattern.  If your first pattern is a large floral, the second pattern should not be a floral but should include some of the same colors.  And the third pattern can be similar to either of the other patterns and use two or three of the colors in the other patterns.  Don't let the fear of mixing three different patterns leave you perplexed.  Just remember: large scale with many colors, medium scale with some colors, and small scale with just a few.

Photo: Pinterest

 Photo: Elle Decor

Limit Your Color Scheme

When you decide to add some pattern to your decor, remember to limit the palette of colors and designs you are using.  Patterns can be quiet dominant in terms of color and appearance.  For example,  if you combine two floral patterns, be sure that they are not overpowering each other, but rather complimenting one another.  Mixing patterns should achieve a balanced look.  Don't mix pastels with primary colors, or muted with vibrant jewel tones.  A large floral, a smaller floral, a stripe and a check will work together if they are made from the same set of dyes in the same hue.  Also, using related colors is what will tie the patterns together.  Try choosing obviously different patterns, such as a wide stripe and a paisley, in the same palette and it will look intentional and not mismatched.

 Photo: Jonathan Adler

 Photo: Pinterest

Consider Fabric Feel

Be aware that there's more to a fabric than simply color.  All fabrics have a personality or a feel and some don't mix.  Most people would identify damask, for example, as a formal fabric.  While most would  agree that stripes or plaid are casual, informal fabrics. These levels of formality should definitely come into play when you're mixing patterns.

 Photo: House Beautiful

Create Balance

Avoid putting all patterned pieces together on one side of a room as they may throw off the room's balance.  Distribute solids and patterns smoothly throughout the room to create an aesthetically pleasing look.  Also consider that other elements of the room, from the fireplace to paneling, contain patterns that should be considered as part of the grand scheme.

 Photo: Elle Decor

Think About Function

Pattern can have a big impact on how a room feels. If you're trying to pull a space together and create harmony, think larger patterns. If your goal is to draw attention to one part of a room, smaller patterns will do the trick. Also think about pattern personality. A busier pattern will up the energy level in a room, while a simple or pale patterns will promote a feeling of calm.

 Photo: Pinterest