Patterns appeal to our most basic human instincts, pleasing us with repeated motifs, ingenious geometry and a more ordered version of nature. In your Lanzarote home, bold geometric patterns can reflect the vibrancy of Manrique while softer, more intricate patterns offer welcome contrast from the stark landscape outdoors.
Just because a room is small doesn’t mean you need to hold back on patterns. You can use several if you just follow some basic rules.
Main Pattern
The main pattern will anchor the space and is the pattern on which all others will be based. It will be dominant – a carpet, wallpaper pattern,, furniture cover or curtain – so choose it carefully. Your main pattern should be spread throughout a living area.
Don’t forget to consider block colours that complement your pattern, making it stand out by offering a contrast.
Secondary Pattern
Your secondary pattern should be compatible with the main pattern, accenting it while also providing contrast. It can be used for cushions, smaller rugs and curtains, or lampshades.The colour should be in the same family, but the size of the secondary pattern should be smaller and finer, providing engaging detail. For example, if your main pattern has large bold lines, consider a smaller floral pattern for the secondary one.
Extra Patterns
You can layer as many patterns as you like in your living space with throws, cushions or even artworks. Additional patterns should always have some similarity to the main pattern or the secondary pattern and are a great way to add impact to a piece of furniture, such as an armchair or sofa. This ensures cohesiveness with all of your patterns even when the colour, texture, or size do not match.
It’s not easy to match patterns in your head, so use your image search skills and your smartphone camera and create a mood board on Pinterest or a similar app. Above all, have fun!
