Patterns are back, if they ever left to begin with. The patterns used in interior design are varied, like,
- Geometric – lines, shapes, forms that are usually used in minimalist or modern styles. The feature image is a good example. If you’re interested in attributing symbolic and sacred meanings to shapes, sacred geometry would be shapes you could explore. Check out the Boysen Color Trend 2024-2025. You can also download the brochure by clicking on the button at the bottom of the page.
- Florals and botanicals – these are usually used in bohemian, cottage, farmhouse interiors. Usually, florals and botanicals give a room a homey, welcoming, comfortable vibe, maybe because of its organic forms.
- Animal prints – a good read would be “On The Wild Side,” that shows how these prints can give your interiors an exciting look. If you want something bold, go for these animal prints.
- Abstract – these are simplified renditions of real-life shapes, which can be used in various interior styles from traditional to modern.
Use of Patterns in Interior Design
Patterns are repeating visual elements—lines, forms, textures, or colors—which often provide directional movement. The above collage show how these could look.
Learn more about patterns, one of the seven interior design elements by clicking on the link. Three other elements influence patterns—lines, textures, and colors—so for a better understanding, read about those elements too in the same post.
Patterns in Lines
There are three types of lines, horizontal, vertical, and dynamic. These types of patterns give a directional feeling to the design.
The lines in the white picket ceramic tile backsplash can make the space look bigger horizontally. There’s no need for color here because the fine lines create that illusion. It’s a clean, minimalist look perfect for a small modern narrow kitchen.
Patterns in Textures
There are two types of textures, physical and visual. The mood board above shows both. What’s wonderful about textures is that when used properly, with a clear color palette running through all the materials, it is possible to create a very interesting room that welcomes tactility.
The next time you enter a warm and inviting interior space, ask yourself why you feel so welcome. The textures most probably trigger your body to feel that “warm embrace.” So don’t hold back, reach out and touch those home accents and give in to a sensory experience.
Tips for Using Patterns
Using patterns as home accents require a bit of design savvy and a willingness to experiment. But here are some tips that can help you get started.
1. Interior style
Be clear about what interior style you want to achieve. If you want a truly minimalist interior where less is more, animal prints may not fit. However, if you want a bohemian style, you can use animal prints or any prints for that matter because this look is maximalist and can afford you much freedom.
Another example would be using wood patterns in a Scandi– or Japan-styled home because wood provides that organic touch that these styles aspire for.
2. Use different sizes in the prints
Mix the size the patterns. Don’t go all small or all large, instead, mix them up. Also, Look at the feature image again and see how it’s done. The sofa is one solid color and the throw pillows are the accents. This way, it wouldn’t look overwhelming.
3. Choose a few patterns
Limit your patterns to three or four patterns and stick to those throughout the room. Remember patterns provide directional movement so having too many may be too much for the eyes.
When you are choosing, go for a mix of simple and complex patterns. It helps to have a quieter pattern to give the eyes some rest.
4. Pick your color palette
Choose your color palette in advance. Make a mood board similar to the ones above because that will help you. Use color schemes within the same tonal family (warm, cool, light, intense, soft).
Read about color schemes in this link. It’s important to know which colors go together.
Another helpful read is the 60-30-10 rule when you create a color palette. 60% is the dominant color, 30% is the secondary color, and 10% are your accents.
5. Create a visual balance
We talk about balance in the 7 principles of interior design.
Mixing and matching patterns may be difficult for most of us. It will help if you choose also solid colors to break up the patterns. Make sure that you have those patterns flowing throughout the room, instead of just putting it on one side.
6. Provide contrast
You can achieve contrast with textures, colors, and different sizes of the prints. Just don’t overdo it. Colors especially can lead the eye to help people understand the story that you want the room to tell.
Experiment with Patterns
Designer wannabes may have a difficult time with patterns. But if you don’t have the budget to get an interior designer to guide you, experiment. Just start on a modest scale, with a small room, using three patterns in a not-so-challenging color palette.
Patterns give interiors depth and personality. If you want your home to express who you are, you can add patterns to your vocabulary.
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