Design tips for pattern-phobes
Neutrals are nice, but it doesn’t hurt to have a little bling in your room
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