A Quick Guide to Pattern & Colour in Interior Design

I find one of the most exciting aspects of interior design to be experimenting with patterns and colours; pulling fabric samples from drawers or wallpapers from cupboards to see what works well together. Whilst it can be intimidating for some, the successful integration of patterns and colours can totally transform a room, breathing life and energy into the space. The key to this lies in balance, harmony, and a good eye for contrast, but hopefully the tips below should make a good start:  

1. Embrace a Neutral Base

A neutral colour palette serves as the perfect canvas for more daring patterns and hues. By starting with a muted base, you establish a calm backdrop that allows the bolder elements to standout, but without overwhelming the space. You could go for whites, greys or earthy tones here, but I’d recommend a soft and pale beige. White can be too stark at times and grey a little cold and dated, whereas a light beige can bring a sense of warmth and comfort to a room, whilst maintaining the versatility to carry a number of other hues. (My personal favourite here is Rolling Fog Light by Little Greene!)

2. The 60-30-10 Rule

I find this can be a little restrictive for seasoned professionals, but if this is all new to you, it’s best to start with at least some basic framework for guidance. Consider adopting the 60-30-10 rule – a classic rule that helps you divide your colour scheme into three parts. 60% of the room in your dominant colour, 30% your secondary colour, and 10% an accent colour. By adhering to this ratio, you increase the likelihood of creating a space that feels balanced and coherent.

3. Vary Your Scale

Adopting patterns of varying size and scale can be a shortcut to adding depth and dimension to a room. For instance, a large floral print on the sofa can pair well against a backdrop of smaller geometric wallpapers. This contrast creates visual interest, without it feeling too chaotic or illogical.

4. Seek Out Common Colour Threads

When mixing patterns, it’s often best to keep the colours consistent, to ensure everything ties together nicely and produced a coherent scheme overall. Seek out patterns and fabrics that share a common colour thread present within your existing scheme, and use that as a unifying factor.

5. Play with Texture

Texture is an often-overlooked element in pattern mixing. A velvet cushion, a natural woven rug, or an aged leather chair can introduce an extra layer of interest to complement your patterns. Experimenting with textures alongside colours and prints can make a room feel sophisticated and multi-dimensional.