Layering prints and patterns is a design approach that creates a sophisticated look full of depth and dimension. When done incorrectly, however, the result can be a distracting and scattered space. To shed some light on this expert technique, we asked top designers to share their favorite spaces with layered patterns and provide advice on how to mix prints successfully.
Chloe Warner, of Redmond Aldrich Design:
“This guest bedroom has a ton of layers, which can be tricky, but has a huge payoff when done well. We love combining different styles of prints, including florals, geometrics, Ikats and textured weaves, to get an interesting composition. To be successful, the prints should all be related in some way, in color or attitude, and the end result will be like a fun, zesty dinner party.”
Elizabeth Stiver & Amy Munger, of Munger Interiors:
“The key to mixing patterns successfully is all about balance. You must have solid choices to break up all the pattern so your eye does not feel overwhelmed. Choosing similar color tones also allows you to be a bit bolder with your pattern choices.”
“Choosing a large pattern for a small room can sometimes be intimidating. In this project, the large-scale pattern in mango creates an impact and can last from the nursery until the teen years simply by swapping the crib for a bed. Small- and medium-scale prints on the wall, canopy lining and chair are juxtaposed with the bold damask for a sophisticated and playful look.”
Tiffany Leblanc, of Leblanc Design, LLC :
“Adding textural patterns and bold colors to classic furniture is a playful way to stay within the traditional style of a home. In this room, each fabric has a nice rhythm that complements the other patterns in the space. The large over-scaled chairs are inviting while the bright red fabric adds an intense pop of color. While the prints and furniture design are classic, the mix of colors creates a more updated feel. Layers of texture from the tile on the fireplace and the vinyl wall covering create a bold yet comfortable room to entertain family and friends in.”
Lydia Marks & Lisa Frantz, of Marks & Frantz:
“You would be hard-pressed to find a Marks & Frantz project that does not have a complex pattern mix! We don’t believe in rules when it comes to creative pattern collaborations, just a few guiding principles to get the perfect blend of color, shade, texture and scale. When layering patterns, make sure to edit the color palette but always throw in a contrast color for balance. The scale of the patterns should also vary but stick to one pattern that is over scale. Most importantly, have fun with it!”
Meredith Heron, of Meredith Heron Design:
“For this nine-foot wide living room located in a 160-year-old Victorian row house, we used pattern and scale to broaden and emphasize the height of the space. We chose drapery and a rug with large-scale patterns and textured detail but kept the remaining upholstery simple and solid to allow it to recede back into the room and make it harder to define stops and starts of the space. Patterned accent pillows and script artwork add depth and complement the larger scale patterns while keeping the eye moving. Overall, the room feels colourful but it’s mostly a base of neutrals with strategic dollops of colour to maximize the illusion of space.”
Charlotte Lucas, of Charlotte Lucas Interior Design:
“This was a stuffy formal living room that did not fit into the lifestyle of its new owners, a young family of five, so we repurposed the furniture with new vibrant fabrics and created a fun adult lounge. Since the fabric on the antique love seat is such a statement, we layered in bold colors but kept them mostly solid so it didn’t get too distracting. When mixing patterns it’s always important to remember to vary the scale of the patterns as well as color and texture.”
