Patterns are like an artistic language in interior design, giving a space personality and ambience. Bold geometric shapes, soft florals, abstract prints – patterns influence a room’s feel in ways other design elements don’t. For example, soft stripes or delicate florals in a bedroom create a calm, restful atmosphere. In contrast, a vibrant geometric design or abstract print can add energy to a living room. Wallcoverings are another effective way to incorporate a pattern, offering endless possibilities, from subtle textures to striking prints that elevate any wall. Patterns aren’t just decoration; they define a room’s mood.
The right balance
When working with patterns, balance is crucial. It’s easy to get excited and overdo it, but too many competing patterns in one space can be overwhelming. To keep things harmonious, it’s essential to mix patterns thoughtfully. The goal is to have all the elements work together without clashing. One of the easiest ways to achieve this is to use a neutral base. A neutral colour on the walls or large furniture pieces provides a calm backdrop, allowing the patterns on pillows or rugs to stand out without feeling chaotic.
Where to start
If you are unsure about using patterns, begin with soft neutrals, whites or light wood tones for walls, floors, or furniture. This offers a relaxing starting point, giving you the flexibility to introduce bold accessories that complement the design. A living room with a beige sofa and light walls can easily accommodate a colourful geometric rug, patterned throw and a bold piece of art. The neutral foundation keeps the room grounded.
Simple yet interesting
To keep your pattern mix cohesive, follow the ‘rule of three’. This concept involves using three different patterns in a space that provides enough variety without overwhelming the room. The size of the patterns can significantly affect a room’s atmosphere. A general rule is to use a large print such as a floral as the focal point and balance it with a medium-sized geometric along with a smaller pattern like stripes.
Mixing large, medium and small patterns adds freshness and prevents the room from being overtaken by one dominant design. Varying the scale creates a balanced visual rhythm, preventing competition. In addition, incorporating floor tiles or wallcoverings can help ground the space, whether you’re selecting patterned tiles for a dynamic contrast or neutral tiles and walls to serve as a backdrop for something bolder above.
Mixing pattern types
Patterns come in different categories: Geometric, organic (such as florals), and abstract (more free-flowing or artistic). Combining these adds depth and interest to a room. The key is to find a unifying element – whether it’s a shared colour or tone – that ties everything together. You could even experiment with floor tile or wallcoverings that mirror the patterns found in your furniture or accessories to further create that cohesive feel.
Moody matches
Patterns are an exciting and personal aspect of interior design, allowing you to create a mood and express your personality. Though mixing patterns can feel tricky at first, once you find the right balance through scale, texture and colour, you will transform your space. Patterns are like the seasoning that elevates your favourite recipe from good to great – when used thoughtfully, they can make everything seem so much better.
Pro tips to keep in mind
1. Start small: If you’re unsure about mixing patterns, begin with one piece, such as a pillow or rug.
2. Cohesive colour palette: Limit colours to a few shades to keep everything tied together, even with varied patterns.
3. Mix but don’t clash: Aim for patterns that complement each other. Some contrast is good, but too much creates visual chaos.
4. Include solids: Anchor your space with solid pieces. This provides a visual rest from the patterns.