Trend Focus: Pattern Play
By Amy Kilvington
From clashing colours and polar-opposite prints, to flamboyant furnishings and particular pieces of furniture, this year’s obsession with experimental interiors is sure to stand out in your home.
One of our favourite elements of the latest trend is its playful patterns. These colourful combinations can be incorporated in a number of ways, including rugs, curtains, blinds and other soft furnishings. To make a big statement, you could opt for a patterned wallpaper. For a more subtle nod towards the pattern play, choose a lamp shade or a combination of cushions for your sofa. At Blinds Direct, we have a fantastic range of patterned fabrics that will bring a fun-loving feeling into your home. The fabrics are available as handmade Roman blinds, curtains, cushions and lamp shades, with additional patterned designs available as roller blinds, Day and Night blinds and more.
Create a playful atmosphere
The pattern play aesthetic is colourful and contemporary, creating a playful mood with a touch of adventure. The key to pattern play is to be open minded, choosing patterns that make you smile and evoke an emotion. They needn’t feel childish – in fact, with a few strategically placed patterns, you can create a beautifully mature and unique atmosphere in your home. You should also keep balance in mind. Combine your new patterns with solid blocks of colour, such as an assortment of printed scatter cushions upon a plain sofa, or a brightly patterned Roman blind installed against a plain wall. Look for something different and unexpected this season. Don’t worry – you won’t grow bored of your playful patterns, especially if you’re choosing something that you truly love. And by incorporating them in the form of window treatments, cushions or lamp shades, it’ll be easy enough to switch them out should your tastes change in future.
Tips for using patterns
There really are no rules when it comes to decorating your home, however we can offer a few tips for using patterns successfully. First, try to use at least three patterns within one space, varying the scale of each pattern. If you’re concerned about the colours not working well alongside one another, stick to the same tonal group, such as pastels, warm tones or deep jewel colours. By using colours of the same intensity, you can ensure that no pattern will speak more loudly than another.
Also, try to distribute your patterns throughout the space. If the majority of your playful patterns are situated in one part of a room, it’ll feel a little lopsided. So if your new curtains feature a bold and playful print, balance them out with a patterned throw on your armchair and or an eye-catching rug on the floor.
Finally, while layering can work wonders, you shouldn’t place too many patterns on top of each other. Avoid a chaotic feeling and intersperse your patterns with plain items, creating a more elegant and thought-out aesthetic.
Shop Playful Patterns
Inject colour and character into your home with our selection of playful patterns. We have a pattern to complete every space, ranging from florals and polka dots to geometrics and abstract designs. Here are a few our a favourite playful patterns. Click the images to shop direct or visit our complete Playful Patterns collection.
Take a look at the high quality, made to measure homeware products available at Blinds Direct. If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to contact our friendly team – we’re always happy to help.
