The Pattern Rookie's Guide to Decorating with Prints

Photo by Emily Redfield

As self-proclaimed color, pattern, culture experts, we are in the business of using contrast to make homes and spaces visually appealing. Our all-time favorite way to show contrast is through patterns. Why? Because patterns make a design look more dynamic and encourage your eyes to dart around a space while taking it all in. Not to mention, patterns are fun (just like us!) and we believe they make a space feel homey and inviting.

All this being said, the team at Atelier Interior Design knows designing with patterns can be intimidating, especially if you’re a rookie. Scroll ahead for our helpful guide on how to get started decorating with patterns and prints.

Photo by Susie Brenner

TEXTILES

Here at Atelier, we have a rule of thumb when it comes to pattern: every space needs one of each kind of pattern - a small scale, a large scale, a textural, a geometric, an organic, and a stripe. A great way to do this is through textiles such as curtains, pillows, and throws. Bonus points for a polka dot and/or plaid thrown into the mix!

If you’re ready to give this tip a try, check out Atelier’s Go-To Makers for Textiles to shop from some of our favorites.

RUGS & ART

Rugs and art are very much personal taste items. They are the statement pieces that showcase who you are and your personal style. A lot of times they are a good place to start when designing a scheme and picking patterns for your space. You always want to pick something you love and that really speaks to you. If a rug or piece of art doesn’t resonate with you, don’t go for it. For example, if you have a really large abstract painting you’re obsessed with, pull colors from it and contrast the organic vibe of the painting with geometric patterns in your upholstery.

Want to search for unique art to start with? Read our tip about finding real art in What’s In this Year: 2022 Interior Design Trends.

Photo by Emily Redfield

WALLPAPER

There are so many wallpapers out there that it can be so hard to pick one for your space. Wallpaper creates a vibe - whether it be sophisticated, serene, funky, whimsical, edgy, etc. That being said, you’ll want to pick something that completes the vibe of the space and that you will love to look at every day. The key is to remember not to be scared! Wallpaper is not as scary as people might think and your eyes will love the pop of pattern! An Atelier rule of thumb: remember to layer wallpaper with wall art - it’s easy to get scared of and shy away from putting art on wallpaper, but it makes the paper pop and gives a “designer-finished” feel.

At the end of the day, it’s all about creating a space you feel happy to spend time in — and we encourage you to give patterns a try to create said space. One of the best ways to overcome pattern fears is to start small with one room or even one space, such as the sofa or a bookshelf. You never know, maybe in time your home will be filled with an exciting mix of vibrant prints that inspire you and anyone who visits your home!

Check out some of our Denver interior design projects for a visual reference of how we incorporate the tips above.