Three Strategies for Mixing Patterns: Start in Neutral

Design Confidently, Live Comfortably


	Simply elegant Wovens, damasks, and brocades coexist comfortably when they complement an elegant ivory background in a sitting room.

	Elegantly simple This black French antique chair is especially dramatic against a neutral backdrop of cream walls, soft green and gold damask draperies, and an Arts-and-Crafts-inspired Tibetan rug.

Instead of having a dominant print lead the way, you can let neutrals provide the backdrop for your winning combination of patterns. Large surfaces, like walls and floors, can be covered in neutral tones so that bright, vocal patterns can stand out in supporting roles. A neutral background gives you permission to combine patterns in creative ways. Think of it as a canvas for the “painting” you’re making in the room.

Neutral doesn’t mean colorless, and it doesn’t have to mean beige. A neutral can be any shade of black, white, gray, ivory, or brown. Keep in mind that a narrow stripe reads like a solid from a distance, so it too can serve as the neutral contrast you need.

Neutrals make good sense because not everybody wants patterns on walls and windows. Simple, unfussy backgrounds allow the foreground to stand out, and neutrals let you go in any direction, using textures as well as finishes to give your room a presence that will be pleasing to you.

Remember: No matter which strategy you use to jump-start your pattern mixing, stay with it. Be loyal to your patterns. I don’t suggest that you go over budget, but I do recommend that you see a project through to fruition or you’ll never know how good it can look.

Imagine a blank canvas A broad, neutral background -- in this case, the wall -- frees you up to combine an especially rich mix of patterns, such as this chair and contrasting textured pillows. The tassels on the pillow echo the red of the chair. The swatches on the right show how rich neutrals can be when they are textured.

If you’ve never mixed patterns before, I promise you’ll make some great discoveries. You’ll make better use of rooms you may not enjoy very much now, and you’ll experience your home in a new and refreshing way.

Mathilda Cox is an interior designer in Washington, D.C.

NEXT: Let a Dominant Color Take Over

BACK: Finding Inspiration and Getting Started

	IN THIS ARTICLE:

		Introduction

		Work with a Color Theme

		Let a Dominant Print Take Over

		Start in Neutral

		Finding Inspiration and Getting Started

		Pattern Language

		More Tips for Mixing Patterns

		Resources

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KAREN TANAKA