Many people love the idea of incorporating patterns into their home decor. Still, they often struggle with how to make it work. One of the main challenges is mixing and matching different patterns. It can be challenging to create a cohesive look when you’re working with dozens of different colors and shapes.
For example, how do you decide which patterns to use? And how do you mix and match different patterns without creating a chaotic look? While it may seem overwhelming at first, with a little bit of planning, you can use patterns to create an exciting and inviting space.
This article will break down the dos and don’ts of incorporating patterns and prints throughout your home to achieve the look you’ve always wanted!
How to avoid a colorful catastrophe
Decorating with patterns can be a great way to add interest and personality to your home. However, when it comes to decorating with patterns, there are a few things to keep in mind to avoid a color catastrophe. Most importantly, you want to create a balance between different patterns. Too many designs in one space can be overwhelming, so sticking to a few prints and styles is best.
When trying to figure out how to decorate with patterns, you should consider:
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Sticking to a single-color palette. This will help create a cohesive look and feel throughout your space.
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Choosing a dominant pattern creates a focal point. The most important thing to remember when decorating with patterns is that less is often more.
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Supplement your patterns with solids. If you’re unsure how mixing and matching patterns will look, a good rule of thumb is to pair them with solid colors. This will help break up the patterns and make your space feel more cohesive.
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Consider the scale of the pattern. The pattern’s scale is essential when deciding how to use it in your space. Smaller prints can be used as accents, while larger prints can be used for statement pieces.
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Texture also plays a role in the overall look of a space. Incorporating different textures into your space will add dimension and interest. Using a variety of textures will also help break up any patterns that might feel overwhelming.
What patterns go well together?
As a beginner, decorating your space with patterns can be daunting. Still, there are some easy ways to ensure the patterns you choose work well together.
● Monotone mixing is a great way to start. Choose some neutral shades to work with and try different patterns in those same shades. This ensures that your patterns won’t clash and will create a relaxed and cohesive look.
● Polka dots and stripes are classic combinations that always look good.
● Mix sharp angles with bold florals. The contrast between the two will add a modern yet bold look, creating interest in your space.
● Same-scale geometrics can also be a great way to mix and match various patterns. This can create a more dynamic look, as the different shapes will play off each other.
As you become more comfortable with mixing patterns, you can start to experiment with more daring combinations. Just remember to keep the overall feel of your space in mind. With a little trial and error, you’ll be surprised at how many different ways patterns can work together to create a stylish interior design.
Can you mix geometric and floral patterns?
In the past, people tended to furnish their homes with new furniture from a single store. As a result, many homes had a similar look and feel. However, the rise of the vintage and secondhand furniture has allowed people to step outside of their comfort zone and experiment with different looks.
In particular, the ability to mix and match different styles has become popular. For example, it is common to see a vintage sofa paired with a modern coffee table or a mid-century dresser in a more contemporary bedroom. This trend has not only given people more freedom when it comes to interior decorating, but it has also made rooms more exciting and unique.
Of course, not all combinations work well together. For example, mixing two different patterns can be tricky. If done incorrectly, it can look like a messy jumble. However, mixing patterns can add visual interest and create a dynamic space if done correctly.
Let’s say you have a geometric wallpaper on the walls, but you just found a beautiful floral accent chair at a consignment store you really want to incorporate into the space. When mixing geometric patterns with florals, make sure to create a color story. Choose a dominant color or simple color scheme so that the patterns don’t clash. For example, if you use gold geometric shapes on the walls, make sure your florals include muted and neutral tones. Two different vibrant colored patterns will become busy and overwhelming. By following these simple tips can create a stylish and more unique space!
How do you pair different fabric patterns together?
When it comes to textiles, there are endless possibilities for mixing and matching different patterns. By carefully selecting fabrics with various colors, sizes, and designs, you can figure out what patterns work well together to create a unique look that is all your own.
The 60/30/10 rule
A good rule of thumb is to use three different patterned fabrics in each room- one large-scale pattern, one medium-scale pattern, and one small-scale pattern, otherwise known as the 60/30/10 rule. This design guideline suggests that 60 percent of a room should be furnished with a large print pattern, 30 percent with a second pattern, and 10 percent with the third pattern as an accent. This approach is a great way to mix and cohesively match different patterned fabrics. As mentioned above, don’t forget to consider the scale of the patterns you select.
Layer and mix patterns slowly
The key is to start slow, mixing and layering different patterns in small doses. When selecting patterned accent pieces, such as an area rug or set of curtains, it is vital to consider the other patterns and colors in the room. For example, if you have a patterned sofa, you might want to select a solid-colored rug or curtains. If you have patterned walls, you might want to choose a patterned rug or throw pillows in a similar style.
On the other hand, let’s say you have a muted living space (a solid couch, chairs, and modern coffee table) and want to introduce patterns using throw pillows, some curtains, and an accent rug. In that case, you might want to start with a statement rug, either Persian or oriental style. Then for the throw pillows, you can use more modern geometric shapes.
For the curtains, you will want to use a muted and neutral pattern, so it doesn’t distract from the focal points you have already incorporated. Keeping the drapery in the same color family as the rug will create depth and flow throughout the space.
Trust your instincts
Your home is your own personal oasis where you get to decide what looks best. When it comes to mixing and matching different patterns, shapes, and textures, it’s essential to trust your instincts. If you put something together and it doesn’t look right, chances are it shouldn’t be together. Likewise, if you create something unique and cohesive, your instincts are probably telling you to go for it. Of course, not everyone has to like it — it’s up to your own personal style.
Animal prints, for example, are a popular trend right now. But that doesn’t mean you have to incorporate them into your space just because they’re trendy. If you prefer more muted colors and shapes, that’s totally fine too. The same goes for natural materials and textures. If you prefer organic fibers over synthetics or vice versa, there’s no wrong answer. The same is valid for geometry. Some people love incorporating angles and straight lines into their space, while others prefer soft curves and organic shapes. Ultimately, the most important thing is creating a space that reflects your individual style. So don’t be afraid to mix things up and go bold with your choices. Trust your instincts — they’ll always lead you in the right direction!
