One of the best ways to pull together a high end looking interior that doesn’t give off that “room in a bag” kind of vibe is to mix patterns; but to many that can be super intimidating!
Pattern is one of those things that when blended together right looks amazing but it is possible to have too much of a good thing or to get overwhelmed in the process! My general rule of thumb for interiors is if you love it then go for it!! But for those that are a-scared to jump off the pattern ledge here is the first ever HSE addition of Design School.
A little disclaimer first, these are just “guidelines” to follow, these aren’t hard and fast rules. Most important is that you give it a shot…some attempts might be more successful then others but in the end I think you will be pleasantly surprised by the effect a little pattern can have in your life!
- Work with the same color “intensity” {pastels with pastels or jewel tones with jewel tones} Now this doesn’t mean that every single color has to be in the same tone {a pop is always encouraged!!} but if you are struggling to find a combo that works this can help you pull it all together.
- Combine different types of patterns. Mix large scale floral patterns with linear stripes or plaids. Ikats with textured fabrics. Just don’t combine patterns that are too similar {ex. two different types of polkdots = big no-no}
- Find balance in your space. Don’t put all of the patterns in one spot in the room, locate them around the room. For instance in the picture below there is a large scale pattern on the window treatments, a texture on the fireplace {the stone}, small linear patterned chairs with large scale pattern pillows and a patterned rug. The patterns are balanced throughout the room using large scale patterns in combination with smaller scale and textured pattern.
{Image found here}
- Use a mix of scales of patterns as well as types. In other words include large scale, medium scale and small scale patterns that are a combination of linear, organic and textured patterns
- Start with one pattern with lots of color and base scheme around that {a colorful stripe, floral or organic would be a good place to start}
- Don’t forget about those textures too! Mixing up textures {velvety smooth with chunky knit or soft cotton} is another great way to add depth to your space.
Homework Assignment: Choose three or more patterns {odds are always better then evens}
- Pattern #1 sets the tone for the other patterns. For this pattern go big and bold. Make sure there are more then 2 colors and look at patterns like ikat, floral or plaid.
- Pattern #2 should be about 1/2 the scale of the first pattern. For this pattern try a geometric, animal print or stripe. Try to use less colors then #1 {but at least 2}
- Pattern #3 should be a small scale pattern or a texture that pulls from either #1 or #2. Try a tone on tone pattern or a very strong textured fabric. {remember pattern doesn’t have to only be bold and out there!}
Still nervous about the whole pattern mixing thing? A great way to play with pattern without getting overwhelmed is by picking one color combo {in this case black and white} that way all you have to focus on is the scale and pattern type!
So get out there and get creative! Start by looking around your house {or even in your closet} to see what kinds of patterns you might already have! Push the limits of what you think “goes” together and try something a bit more unexpected!
Class Dismissed
~ Jillian
* There’s still time! Enter to win an adorable custom onsie for a cute munchkin in your life {here}!
{Bring a little Scandinavian design inspiration into that ski lodge}
