Toronto Star

Design tips for pattern-phobes

Neutrals are nice, but it doesn’t hurt to have a little bling in your room

- VICKY SANDERSON SPECIAL TO THE STAR

Following years of minimalism, during which cool neutrals and subtle solids ruled the design scene, pattern is re-asserting itself. That’s not surprising, given that geometrics, as well as motifs with flora and fauna have been cycling through home decor since we started painting on cave walls.

This spring, look for the emergence of jazzy wallpapers, embossed surfaces, architectu­ral finishes, graphic pillows and textiles embellishe­d with embroidery.

Incorporat­ing these decorative elements into a space can, however, pose a challenge for pattern-phobic homeowners.

In fact, accessorie­s are the perfect way to introduce pattern, says design blogger Jennifer Flores, pointing to a spare room makeover she recently undertook.

“I thought about putting pattern in with wallpaper or moulding, but that felt like too big a commitment. I decided instead to use accessorie­s,” says Flores.

Another advantage to decorating with patterned pieces is that they can live in different rooms over time, says Flores.

“I think we are all more aware of not being such a disposable society. So I love the fact that you can use a blue patterned rug in a new room, and then move it to another space when you tire of it. All you need to do is bring in some other blue accessorie­s for it to work. And it means you get a lot more longevity out of something you have invested in.”

As a rule of thumb, Flores suggests that three patterns in any one room is a manageable number to play with.

Flores shopped for her spare room elements entirely on eBay. On top of being able to access products from a range of retailers, it allowed her to create a “mood board,” which she recommends doing when working with pattern.

“It lets you see how well they fit together,” she explains. Balance, says Flores, is critical. “Sometimes you fall in love with a pattern and want to put it everywhere,” she says, “but it can be overwhelmi­ng if you don’t change the scale and the tone.”

That might mean, for example, using a large pattern on bedding that’s echoed in smaller versions in a tray and rug.

For those who are still pattern shy, Flores suggests that textured objects and textiles can perform a similar visual function.

“Texture can definitely play that role, especially textures that have that touchabili­ty,” says Flores. “Think about velvet pillows and chunky throws. What makes a space memorable is when you engage as many senses as possible.”

Ceilings, too, provide an often-overlooked canvas, simply by adding an inexpensiv­e medallion, or — for the more adventurou­s — covering it in a patterned or textured paper

 ?? ENRICO CONTI ?? Vases from the Labirinto collection from design house Richard Ginori inject elegance and pattern into any space.
ENRICO CONTI Vases from the Labirinto collection from design house Richard Ginori inject elegance and pattern into any space.
 ??  ?? The retro appeal of checkerboa­rd squares is recreated in easy-care luxury vinyl flooring from Karndean.
The retro appeal of checkerboa­rd squares is recreated in easy-care luxury vinyl flooring from Karndean.
 ??  ?? China patterns have been the source of Wedgwood’s fame for a couple of centuries. Shown here is the Fabled Crane wallpaper.
China patterns have been the source of Wedgwood’s fame for a couple of centuries. Shown here is the Fabled Crane wallpaper.
 ??  ?? This pattern uses India ink in an ancient Japanese technique.
This pattern uses India ink in an ancient Japanese technique.
 ??  ?? A subtle play of pattern and texture come together in this wool rug.
A subtle play of pattern and texture come together in this wool rug.
 ??  ?? Palm-leaf design has proved itself as a decorative staple.
Palm-leaf design has proved itself as a decorative staple.

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