Dear CJ,

In all my homes I have avoided pattern in my interior design. I always feel safe with solids & textures. I attribute this to avoiding the busy look that my parents have in their home.

Now that my husband & I have decided to redecorate our living room, I would like to add some pattern to create a stylish look. What direction can you give me to introduce pattern in my interior design with confidence?

Appreciatively,

Jenny D.

Dear Jenny,

I’m so happy you are open to adding pattern to your interior design. Pattern adds individuality to your home. It’s not only a way to add color & style, it’s an opportunity to express your personality. Pattern brings an element of design that solids just cannot achieve by themselves.

I understand this can be an intimidating process. I believe there are psychological reasons many people avoid pattern.

1) People are comfortable blending in instead of standing out. Solid fabrics blend in.

2) Pattern feels like a big commitment. It’s like painting a wall a bright color.

3) As you alluded to, you don’t want to be like your parents. The patterns they have chosen reflect their personalities, not yours.

4) Pattern can feel busy. Knowing how to add the appropriate pattern for your personality is key.

It’s time to find out what patterns speak to you…

1) Identify the type of pattern that resonates with you.

In my experience, I have found that my clients that utilize their left brain more often, tend to gravitate to stripes, plaids & geometric patterns. These clients work with numbers & find more pleasure in analytical work.

Whereas, clients that are right brain more often, gravitate to patterns that have movement such as floral, paisley, abstract, & animal prints. These clients are less structured & find more pleasure in creative work.

Let’s explore 8 Basic Patterns…

Abstract

This is any pattern that has a free form design. Abstract patterns lend themselves to modern design.

Geometric

This is any pattern that picks up on all the things you learned in your geometry class. Square, triangle, diamond, pentagon, polygon. If you’re a left brain person you can rattle on with many more than I can ;) Geometric patterns work well in both modern & traditional design depending on the way the pattern is styled.

Stripe

This is a long narrow band or strip, typically of the same width throughout its length, differing in color or texture from the surface on either side of it.

Paisley

This is a distinctive intricate pattern of curved, feather-shaped figures based on a mango design from India. This is a pattern that Ralph Lauren made classic and works best for a traditional design.

Ikat

This is a pattern made using an Indonesian decorative technique in which warp or weft threads, or both, are tie-dyed before weaving creating a softer pattern. Ikats work well in transitional & traditional design.

Animal Prints

This is a pattern made to resemble the skin or fur of an animal such as a leopard, cheetah, jaguar, zebra, tiger or giraffe. These patterns work well in modern design. Although, you’ll sometimes see a leopard print pillow or ottoman in a traditional design giving it an unexpected twist.

Floral

This is a pattern designed from flowers in nature often having a watercolor style. There are varying styles of floral patterns which makes them appropriate for traditional & modern design.

Plaid

This is a fabric woven of differently colored yarns in a crossbarred pattern. We generally think of Tartan Plaids, making them a more traditional pattern.

Which of these patterns resonate with you?

2) Start with Small Doses

When first introducing pattern to your interior design, it’s best to choose one or two places to use it.

Accent Pillows are an easy place to start. It’s not a huge commitment & it’s easy enough to find a pattern that speaks to your heart. William Sonoma has a nice selection of pillow covers with good quality to choose from. Be sure to get pillow inserts that are down or synthetic down filled. These are the type of inserts you can karate chop. They offer more comfort & look more luxurious. I recommend The Company Store for the inserts.

Area Rug is another way to introduce pattern. Since it’s on a different plateau it’s easier to adapt to.

Artwork can also be a good way to introduce pattern, especially in a modern space.

Accent Chair can handle pattern very well. If you find a pattern you really love, go for it. It’s a great way to make a statement.

3) Stick to the Plan

Once you find a pattern & the source to introduce it that resonates with you, don’t let other people talk you out of it. Take a leap of faith. It might take time for others to adjust to it but trust me, I’ve seen it many times over. They will fall in love with it too. Pattern is like red wine, it’s a acquired taste but once you develop your palette you will be hooked for life.

This is how you introduce pattern in your interior design. Trust me, once you do, your home will come to life, reflecting the beautiful person you are.

If You Need More Direction On Getting Started Consider My Local Or Online Design Services! I’m Here To Guide You! My Room Review package Might Be A Great Place To Start.

I Look Forward To Your Questions & Comments Below & Hope You “Like” This Blogpost.

I’m here to help!

Your Home Loving Expert,

CJ