Introducing Pattern into your Home

Patterns have returned within the world of interior design with a vengeance. Plain walls, fabrics and materials still have their place, yet designers are suggesting that we move away from totally plain homes and inject a little chic style by the use of pattern. Pattern can be used on one wall as a feature, by way of patterned wallpaper, those with a soft sheen and the most favourable as they help to move light around the room. Other places were pattern can be introduced is with the clever use of soft furnishings and window dressings. You need to bare in mind that introducing pattern into your home isn't merely a case of putting up wallpaper or new patterned curtains or using printed duvet covers. There's more to using pattern than first meets the eye. Keep these 5 tips in mind when playing with patterns:

1. Apply the rule of proportion. Use small patterns for small living rooms and bedrooms while medium-sized to large patterns are suitable for large spaces.

2. Mix and match geometric patterns to achieve a fun, interesting look. For example, mix stripes with polka dots, plaids and checks but always apply restraint lest the entire window dressing or wall looks tacky and trashy.

3. Match the size of the curtains and bedding to the patterns. For example, medium-sized patterns look best on accent pieces like the cornices and valances and single beds, while large patterns are best for full-sized curtains and double duvet covers.

4. The large floral blooms which were all the rage last year have been replaced with repeat patterns of trailing flowers, which are perfect for drawing the eye upwards and making windows appear taller.

5. Use pattern to introduce a new colour into a room. This is a great way of getting yourself acquainted with the colour before introducing more – likewise if you decide that a specific colour isn't for you then the merest hints incorporated within a pattern is much more liveable, if only for the short-term.

Pattern places a large part of interior design whether by intention or default. To use it successfully means you have to pay attention and make choices which suit the style of the room and your home. Today patterned curtains, fabrics, bedding and soft furnishings are widely available to enhance the look of your home. You don't have to introduce a new colour just because you're introducing pattern. Neutrals and off-whites can still be used if they all have slightly different patterns they'll easily add the 'wow' factor to a room.

We must forget texture, the feel of the fabrics is important as the pattern and colour. This aspect isn't as important as getting the scale and the colours of the patterns right, but texture shouldn't be ignored completely. Mixing silk and satins with cottons and velvets is a great way to add depth and character to your rooms.

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