How to make pattern work in your home

INSPIRATION

Plain walls not doing it for you any longer? Then pattern is the way to go and there’s no need to hold back – after all, if you’re going to the effort of a refresh, it makes sense to opt for something that will really make a difference…

COMPILED BY AMELIA SMITH

TEAM OLD AND NEW

Classic for a reason, blue and white is the most reliable colour combination around. Go for a timeless pattern and you’ve got the basis for a look that will work in any setting. The pretty wallpaper in this dining area, inspired by the Delft tiles first created in the 17th century, is the perfect partner to contemporary furniture, but would be just as striking with more traditional pieces.

KEEP ADDING LAYERS

Pattern on pattern is all about confidence and character. Here, a delicate chintzy wallpaper creates a gorgeous backdrop to striped cushions, decorative upholstery and a bold rug with a standout design. The whole look works thanks to the use of tonal shades, the boldest of which has been used on the woodwork and shutters to add drama but keep everything just this side of over the top.

BE BOLD WITH BOTANICS

Chintzy designs have taken a bit of a back seat for the past few years, but they’re really having a moment now and we’re loving the fresh botanicals we’ve seen popping up everywhere recently. Featuring peacocks and palm trees, the statement design on these curtains has a heritage feel that would add a pleasingly whimsical look to the most modern of windows.

CONSIDER THE VIEW

If you’re wallpapering adjacent rooms, it’s a great opportunity to ramp up the pattern factor in your home. Think about how they’ll work together to maintain a sense of flow – using complementary colours and varying scales of similar patterns are great ways to do this. Here, the coherent look is enhanced by the doorway, painted a similar shade to the wallpaper, framing the view into the next room.

MAKE IT FUN

Some patterns are meant to be together. Take stripes, checks and spots – they’ll mix and match perfectly if you vary the scale and choose shades that work together, like the sky blue