How to Use Patterns in Interior Design
Designing the interior of your home or business involves more than just mixing and matching colors. The theory of pattern usage in interior design is an integral part of the overall effect of the room. Patterns are easily visible on fabrics but most people overlook the inherent patterns in furniture shape and placement. All objects possess patterns, whether they are square, circular, rectangular or a combination of shapes. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Graph paper
- Thin cardboard (for cutting out shapes)
- Furniture
- Accessories
- Pictures
Instructions
-
-
1
Use large sheets of graph paper to represent your room and cut thin cardboard shapes to represent your major furniture items. Arrange the shapes on the graph paper until you like the combination.
-
2
Try some patterned furniture placement by positioning square chairs diagonally in a corner to create a triangle shape and then repeating the shape by using end tables and ottomans as part of a larger triangle. Move the cardboard pieces around on your graph paper in order to see the effect of the placement before you move the furniture.
-
-
3
Add accessories to accentuate the patterns created by your new furniture placement. For instance, a tall round vase will flatter a low square table and create a pattern that draws the eye upward. In the same manner, the pattern of checks on throw pillows will add a geometric element to the soft flowing pattern of a chaise lounge.
-
4
Experiment with pattern repetition when decorating your walls. For an elegant look, hang an odd number of tall rectangular pictures side by side. To draw the eye to a specific picture, hang it in a prominent spot and use progressively smaller pictures on each side to draw the viewer’s eye to the main picture.
-
5
Decide on a main pattern theme and repeat it throughout your room. If you have a sofa and matching chairs with cylindrical arm shapes, consider using more cylinders in the form of standing lights, vases, ottomans or as accents in wall décor. You can still use other patterns but by following a pattern theme, your entire room will have a balanced feel.
-
6
Consider patterns that are appropriate to the style of your home. A country cottage is not the best place for bold geometric shapes in vivid colors but in a contemporary apartment, they would look right at home. For a smooth design transition, repeat the patterns present in your home’s architectural elements.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Enjoy using patterns to design your interior. Although there are general guidelines, the ultimate guide is to do what makes you feel good about the look of your home.
- Photo Credit Photo, courtesy of Stock.xchng
