Integrating a mix of patterns in your home decor is a great way to add interest, depth, and personality to your space. However, it can be intimidating if you are just getting started!
When mixing patterns, it's important to find the right mix of color, contrast, pattern, and scale to create a combination that is cohesive and feels effortless.
There are many surfaces that can integrate pattern including curtains, rugs, throw pillows, couches and accent chairs, furniture, walls, and decorative accessories. Selecting just a few of these is the key to a balanced design.
I’ve collected 7 easy tips to get you started on your pattern mixing journey with confidence.
Your color choices will influence the overall feel of the design so consider what mood you want to create. Choosing colors in a similar color palette will create a cohesive design that still offers variety. It’s useful to consider the 60-30-10 rule when selecting the color palette. It means 60 percent of your space should be a dominant color, 30 percent should be your secondary color, and the last 10 percent should be your accent color.
Tip: For a timeless, organic modern look, select a mix of neutral and earth tones in your color palette.
Within your color palette, include some contrast. Using a mix of slightly darker and lighter colors will allow the patterns you select to stand out rather than blend all together.
Tip: Contrast doesn’t have to be drastic. Using colors that vary by even a few shades will help.
This will serve as a jumping off point to build the overall design. But consider if the pattern fits with the overall feel you want to create in the space. Build up to a combination of three or four patterns to use throughout your space. Be careful, mixing too many can create a cluttered, messy look rather than a thoughtfully designed look.
Tip: Florals, plaids, stripes, and herringbone are all timeless patterns.
When you mix patterns, take note of each size. A pattern is typically large-scale, medium-scale, or small-scale. Choose a large-scale pattern style as the focal point. Then, add in medium and/or small scale patterns as accents. This will help create balance and is more pleasing to the eye.
Tip: Don’t mix two large-scale patterns next to each other, they will compete with one another.
When playing with patterns, incorporate them throughout a space to prevent the room from feeling “heavy” in one area. Spreading them around the room will create a cohesive look that feels pulled together.
Tip: Curtains, rugs, throw pillows, couches and accent chairs, walls, and decorative accessories are all opportunities to add pattern where needed.
Mixing too many patterns can quickly make a space feel overwhelming. Incorporating a solid within your design is a good way to prevent the look from feeling too busy. It will break up the space and allow the eye a place to rest.
Tip: Neutral colored walls, or a large piece of solid colored furniture such as a couch can help serve as a clean backdrop for the rest of the space.
Once you have your patterns selected, you’ve included contrast, considered scale, and included a solid in your design, perform the “squint test.” By simply squinting your eyes, the blurred vision allows you focus on anything that stands out or is off balance. Use this as an opportunity to make any adjustments you see fit!
Tip: You can perform the squint test on an entire room, or to focus on a smaller grouping such as a collection of patterned throw pillows to see if the combination works well.
Remember, decorating your home is all about having fun and finding a style that resonates with your personality. Don’t be afraid to try different things until you find a combination that feels right. Start small if you need to! Home, like life, is a journey. One step at a time!
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