Choosing right pattern is delicate balancing act

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 27/07/2008 (6380 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

Adding pattern to your decor can bring an interesting new dimension to a mundane space. Whether you choose to bring it into your space through the use of wallpaper, faux paint techniques, upholstery or window treatments, pattern can turn an OK space into something quite dramatic.

Choosing the right patterns and mixing them successfully is a delicate balancing act. Bold pattern can grow tiresome very quickly as it can be over-stimulating to the senses. On the other hand, avoiding pattern altogether out of fear of failure limits your decor options greatly and unnecessarily. Balance is the key and there are a number of tips to remember that will help you achieve success. Forget about spending a lot of time deliberating over your choices, instead, follow some of these simple rules. Start small and build from there.

Easy does it

The best way to get your feet wet with pattern is to use it in small doses. Items like toss cushions (or cushion covers), lampshades and even wallpaper or paint treatments on focal walls is a good place to start.

Smart choices

Graphic, large or modern patterns (or the now popular retro patterns) can be trendy but can also go out of fashion fairly quickly. Incorporating them into your space can be fun but should be done in small doses or at least with the knowledge that they will have to be updated in a year or two.

Timeless patterns are a good choice

The problem with following trends is that they can become outdated very quickly. Choosing to incorporate timeless patterns like toile, harlequin, fleur-de-lys or the Greek key design will ensure that your decor remains tasteful and timeless.

Pattern on fixed items

Think twice about choosing to use a bold pattern on fixed items like flooring or wall-to-wall carpeting. While it might be gorgeous today you may grow tired of it fairly quickly. It’s best to stay with a neutral colour palette and subtle pattern on large areas like flooring, upholstery and custom draperies. On larger upholstered items, like a sofa, choose solid colours which can be dressed up with bold print accessories. If you want pattern in the space opt to use it on a smaller item like a side chair which is less obtrusive and will coordinate visually with the solid items.

Mixing patterns successfully

The best way to stay in balance while mixing patterns is to remember a simple rule. Keep the patterns one size apart; that is, a large floral with a small check versus a medium floral and a medium check. Patterns that are too close in size will compete while very large patterns mixed with fine patterns will compliment each other. Mixing colours can be tricky so try to stay within a three-colour palette for the main colours in your prints.

Which pattern to use

Keep in mind the assets and deficits of each type of pattern and use them to your advantage.

Stripes: Vertical stripes will elongate a surface while horizontal stripes will widen a surface. Wide stripes are bold while fine stripes can make your eyes cross so use stripes in small doses.

Florals: Floral patterns come in many sizes, styles and patterns with tons of colour palette opportunities. Floral patterns tend to be feminine so keep this in mind if you have men in the house. A great floral pattern can provide a base for your entire colour palette so if you see one that really catches your eye, get a swatch and play with the choices. Large floral patterns can look great on smaller furniture pieces while small floral patterns do well on large wall spaces.

Checks: Checkered patterns can be quite bold when the pattern is medium to large. Tone on tone checks are a subtle way to bring pattern into a space without overdoing it. Small checks provide a casual, country feel, while large graphic checks suite a modern space. Placed on a diagonal, checks can visually expand a wall or floor depending upon your application.

Play with pattern in your space. It will add visual movement and life to your décor.

coliver@3web.net