Mixing Patterns: Start With White and Black

Mixing patterns is still all the rage in both interiors and fashion. It’s a look that can take some practice to master, so if you are having a little problem, maybe it is ideal to start with the basics: pattern in just black and white.

Mixing patterns is mostly an exercise in scale, however, colour can also be a variable. By removing the latter, then you can focus your energy on comprehension scale. Begin your education by checking out some mixed black-and-white routines.

Cke interior design llc

The traditional structure of the living room feels more modern with the introduction of upholstered furnishings in two different black-and-white patterns. A large-scale pattern on the couch complements a more detailed pattern on the opposite chairs, even though a couch in a strong neutral in between balances the look.

Supon Phornirunlit / Naked Decor

When a colour plot is minimal, it can feel level if texture isn’t included through patterns. A patterned bedspread and rug help give the space dimension.

Tobi Fairley Interior Design

Look carefully: Did you spot the black stripe on the lamp? In case you have a large area covered in pattern, like a wall or couch, introduce smaller instances of pattern in different scales through accessories for extra interest.

Nicole Lanteri Design

In this living room, a couch upholstered in linen damask interacts with panels that are black. Notice the extremely small pattern on the rug: this is a fantastic tip for introducing another routine for texture’s sake without going overboard. The very modest scale almost makes it look a good colour so the look doesn’t push the limits.

Amoroso Design

If an whole room in wallpaper looks a bit much, go to your wallpapered accent wall instead. A black table runner throughout the white table gives the effect of further pattern in this dining space.

Lisa Benbow – Garnish Designs

Remember, you can even begin small with throw pillows. These accessories are great items to experiment with routine: visit the store and mix several together to get a sense for what is right. Notice how two of these pillows feature a larger scale than the other two.

Niche Interiors

Don’t be scared to introduce good colour. A green headboard and magenta throw pillow offer welcome separation between black-and-white patterns within this bedroom.

Michael Fullen Design Group

The use of crimson in this bedroom provides fun colour to a space otherwise inhabited greatly in black-and-white patterns. Notice the way the duvet and draperies have patterns in larger scale while the wallpaper and throws feature patterns in considerably bigger scale. Because of this, four patterns operate cohesively in one space.

Judith Balis Interiors

Look at using a geometric pattern to balance the ones which are more detailed. A striped wall complements floral paper in this bedroom.

flickr.com

And in this room, a striped wall offers the ideal backdrop for a strong black couch accessorized with zebra print pillows.

Tobi Fairley Interior Design

A rug with a perimeter stripe and black cent tiles in the shower complement the busier wallpaper in this bathroom. Black-and-white towels in solid colors carry the colour scheme without competing with the patterns.

Shirley Meisels

Following is a clever approach to coating patterns: a piece of artwork comprising a patterned theme, hung on a wall of wallpaper in a complementary scale. After decorating, never neglect to tap into your creativity!

Tutorial: How to Layer Patterns Right

Writer: Design Magic of Tobi Fairley

See related