10 WAYS TO BRING HOME PRINTS & PATTERNS

From furnishings to furniture, from crockery to sanitary ware, from flooring to showpieces here’s how you can turn the great indoors into a stunning sanctuary

That bird motif, those animal prints, pretty paisleys or the abstract patterns, when used correctly they can make any space stand out. Unfortunately, people shy away from using too many prints and patterns, but truth be told all you need to do is balance them properly and watch your room shine. However, if you are still confused here are 10 ways you can use prints and patterns at home.

CROCKERY

“Delicate florals and checks have been popular for some time. Today you have exotic flora and fauna decorating the crockery. Playful geometric patterns or simply some dots and circles, are fun too. You also have abstract art-like design or quaint pastoral imprints on tableware. Investing in a few collections with varied colours, prints and patterns helps create a vibrant setting,” says Sachin Gupta, founder and interior designer, Beyond Designs. He also recommends mixing elements from different tableware collections for a more edgy and playful look. “The way to create a harmony with many varied patterns is by using some neutral or plain elements. For example, if you have colourful, patterned tableware, then the napkins and accessories can be in either neutral shades or complementing patterns,” explains Gupta. Another option is to team bold dinner plates with a sober serve ware. “However, on special occasions, you can go all out to create a bold look with your favourite patterned crockery. A fine balance is the key, though. Step back and check if anything is jarring to the eye, then work to eliminate that,” adds Gupta.

FURNITURE

“Prints and patterns can be tricky to use, so often people give it a miss. You can use prints in accent chairs, poufs or even dining chairs back. It depends on the concept of the space. The most difficult and bold choice would be to choose prints on the main couch. This can be done in formal seating, highlighting the wall and other fabrics with contrasting textures,” says Neeta Kumar, founder and interior designer, Inhabit.

BATHROOM

“The bath is no longer just a functional space, but a wellness zone where you spend some time alone relaxing and rejuvenating. Naturally, eye-catching prints and patterns have made their way into the bathroom, either on the wall as wallpapers and tiles or on the floor, as tiles and marbles laid out in patterns. Even sanitary fixtures like the toilet or basin have transformed to feature exotic floral patterns,” says Dilip Rathi, director, Etreluxe India. Rathi also adds that smaller bathroom accessories such as soap and napkin holders are another great way to welcome patterns. Even decor pieces such as vases, sculptures and wall art can be used to add prints and patterns .

KITCHENS

“A great way to make a kitchen a vibrant visual feast is to play with prints and colours. With bold printed tiles or dramatic stones one can really liven up any neutral kitchen in a pocket friendly way as the backsplash is a small area compared to the rest of the space,” says Pankaj Poddar, co-founder of Hipcouch, adding, “Instead of subway tiles, more designers are using larger slabs of tiles.” Another trend is matching backsplash and the countertop. Alternatively, opt for a plan backsplash and let prints and patterns shine on the cabinets.

WALLPAPER

“One key word to keep in mind is balance. The result needs to be harmonious and a visual treat at the same time. If we use a very bold pattern it is best to restrict it to the focal walls and remaining walls can be a tonal coordinate, unless you are brave enough to handle bold patterns. I always say, go bold or go home, but since we are already home, might as well go bold,” says Sanjyt Syngh, interior designer and stylist, adding, “The good thing with wallpaper is that it is an instant way to add character to any space.” Syngh also shares that wallpapers need not be restricted to walls. “I have used it on ceilings, as a back panel on shelves, on furniture and as panelling. All you need is a surface,” he says.

FLOORING

“Use tiles or floor paper for adding creative floor patterns and prints in your room,” says Ashok Basoya, founder, Ottimo, adding, “Contrast the floor colours with the surroundings to create drama or match them for a subtle effect.” Basoya also advises that it is important to first define your purpose—is it aesthetics, visual demarcation or perhaps guiding the footsteps in a certain direction. “Next identify the print or pattern you want to use. You could opt for readymade designs or get your own designs made on tiles or floor paper. Lastly, install the pattern making sure that you maintain a cohesive look and feel,” he says.

FURNISHINGS

Home textiles are the quickest way to introduce prints and patterns. “A smart pinstriped furnishing or a hand done floral are trending these days,” says Riddhima Khandelwal, creative head, Ellementry. As per Khandelwal a common mistake people make with textiles is overcrowding. “Do not crowd with too many prints, patterns or solids at one place. Balance it with a play of all three. Use printed and patterned elements on the solids to create an opulent yet comfortable visual,” she says. A good example is a solid sofa with a printed throw or cushion or a plain wall with a patterned wall accent or curtains.

DECOR ACCESSORIES

“The best and easiest way to add prints and patterns in small yet impressive doses, is through accessories. Exotic geometric patterns and stark graphic prints, especially inspired by tribal art, are in vogue. Animal prints interpreted in vibrant colours and finishes are ever glamorous. So is modern art which brings its own whim and excitement,” says Mandeep Singh, founder, Emery Studio. Be it a vase, a paper weight, a showpiece or even a figurine, you can place them in every nook and corner to make the space stand out.

CARPETS/RUGS

“From the geometric designs to the abstract art, from the minimal to the bold and vibrant, carpets and rugs are a great way to introduce prints and patterns into your home,” says Deepankar Choudhary, director, Hands Carpets & Rugs. For those who prefer a more classic appeal Choudhary suggests opting for Persian carpets. “Pale walls ground the space beautifully if you are accommodating different textiles in vibrant colours. Alternatively, one can combine two bold patterns in coordinating shades. An oversized pattern rug anchors your space,” he adds.

LIGHTING

“Modern lights are designed in a creative manner to evoke a range of enthralling patterns. Inspired by nature and the surroundings, they are fashioned to mimic waves, tree branches, birds, antlers, jewellery and flamenco dancers. Similarly, wall lights in different colours, some with vibrant prints, can add a dose of prints and patterns to your space. Lamp shades and table lamp bases with exotic floral or geometric patterns also help add colour and bold designs,” says Sandeep Kaushik, country manager (India), Sans Souci. Some of the patterned lighting can even be used in bathrooms as shower curtains.