Mixing patterns in home decor can add a vibrant and eclectic touch to a space, but it can also be a daunting task. With so many options to choose from, it can be easy to go overboard and end up with a room that looks like a circus tent. To help you navigate the world of pattern mixing, here are some dos and don’ts to keep in mind.
DO: Start with a Neutral Base
Before you start adding in patterns, it’s important to start with a neutral base. This will provide a calm and cohesive backdrop for the more colorful and busy patterns you’ll be adding in later. Think of your neutral base as the foundation of your room – it will help to tie everything together and prevent your patterns from clashing.
DON’T: Be Afraid to Mix Patterns
Once you have your neutral base in place, it’s time to start mixing patterns. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try out different combinations – mixing patterns can add depth and interest to a space. Just make sure to vary the scale and type of patterns to keep things visually interesting.
DO: Use a Color Scheme
One way to ensure that your pattern mixing looks cohesive is to use a color scheme. Choose a few colors that you want to incorporate into your room and make sure that all the patterns you choose include at least one of those colors. This will help to tie everything together and prevent your patterns from clashing.
DON’T: Mix Too Many Bold Patterns
While mixing patterns is a great way to add visual interest to a room, it’s important not to go overboard. Mixing too many bold patterns can overwhelm a space and make it feel chaotic. Instead, choose one or two bold patterns to be the focal point of the room, and use more subtle patterns to complement them.
DO: Mix Different Types of Patterns
When mixing patterns, it’s important to vary the type of patterns you use. Mix graphic patterns with florals, stripes with geometric prints, and so on. This will help to create a more dynamic and visually interesting space. Just make sure to vary the scale of the patterns as well – mixing patterns of different sizes will prevent your room from looking too busy.
DON’T: Forget about Texture
In addition to mixing patterns, don’t forget to incorporate different textures into your space. Textures add depth and visual interest to a room, and can help to balance out the busyness of mixed patterns. Consider adding in some textured fabrics, like velvet or linen, or incorporating some textured decor items, like rattan or jute.
DO: Use Solid Colors as Anchors
To prevent your pattern mixing from becoming overwhelming, make sure to use solid colors as anchors in your space. Solid colors can help to break up the patterns and provide some visual relief. Use solid-colored furniture, rugs, and accent pieces to balance out the busy patterns in your room.
DON’T: Forget about Scale
When mixing patterns, it’s important to pay attention to scale. Mixing patterns of different scales – like a large floral print with a small geometric pattern – can create a more visually appealing space. Make sure to vary the scale of the patterns you use to prevent your room from looking flat and one-dimensional.
DO: Test Before Committing
Before you commit to a full-scale pattern mixing extravaganza, it’s a good idea to test out your patterns first. Lay out your patterns and colors on a table or floor to see how they look together. This will give you a better idea of how the patterns will work in your space and allow you to make any necessary adjustments before committing.
In conclusion, mixing patterns in home decor can be a fun and creative way to add personality to a space. By following these dos and don’ts, you can create a visually interesting and cohesive room that reflects your personal style. Remember to start with a neutral base, use a color scheme, mix different types of patterns, incorporate texture, use solid colors as anchors, pay attention to scale, and test before committing. With these tips in mind, you’ll be on your way to creating a beautifully patterned space that you can enjoy for years to come.
