Pattern

Introduction to Pattern in Interior Design

Just as you think about colour, line and texture, also consider how you can mix pattern in your room schemes.

Patterns are exciting to use and can lift a scheme from the ordinary to the spectacular! Pattern can be difficult to manage successfully – but there are some ‘rules’ that can be followed until you become confident enough to break them!

The most common patterns we use in interior design schemes are:

Stripes - Geometric - Floral/Organic - Motif - Animal

Complex Patterns

That use several colours and diagonal, criss-crossing lines are busy for your eye. They can liven up a large area, but it may be overwhelming for a small room - They can however look great in a larger space when they're allowed to dominate.

Vertical Line

Vertical Lines add height to a short room, or add more height to a high ceiling. They are also considered to be ‘elegant’ and can be used successfully in historically accurate rooms.

Above photograph courtesy of Angela Todd Designs http://www.nwinteriordesigner.com/

Horizontal Line

Horizontal Lines add space and width to an area. There are also great if you’re trying to lower the visual height of a room.

Florals

Can be big and blowsy or small and delicate and will give a very different look and feel to a room A general rule of thumb, the larger the space, the larger the print, the smaller the space the smaller the print. Yet adding a large print to a small area can create a real feeling of grandeur.

Motifs

A motif pattern is any randomly recurring pattern and is usually based on abstract shapes. The same grouping or pattern used throughout an area can draw together a wide open plan. It will create a flow and sense of continuity.

Animal Prints

The popularity of animal prints wax and wane depending on fashion. They are not limited only to the fur or skin, any photographic representation off an animal falls into this category.

Colour also affects how we see patterns. High contrast patterns create an energetic feeling and colours close in value create a more subdued environment.