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Mixing Patterns
When combining patterns,
establish a common denominator. The common denominator may be
the color, the pattern, or the theme of the pattern. Color is
the easiest common denominator to establish. Some possible
combinations might be:
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Different patterns in the
same color scheme.
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If different patterns in
the same color scheme are used, it's safe to go on adding
patterns almost indefinitely, especially when the patterns
themselves are simple.
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Same pattern in different
color combinations.
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Reversing color
combinations or using different color combinations of the
same pattern are interesting ways to mix patterns. Two or
three different color combinations are enough in a room.
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Same pattern, different
sizes, in same color combination.
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Same pattern in several
different sizes. This works especially well with dots,
stripes, or checks.
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Different patterns with a
related theme. Two different prints with a related theme
make an interesting combination if colors also have
something in common. The prints should be either
approximately the same size or very different in size, with
one print quite large and the other print small.
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These guidelines make mixing
patterns easier:
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Be sure there is contrast
and compatibility. The patterns must be different enough in
design, yet have a compatible color in common.
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In developing a color
scheme, select the dominant print and then choose a quieter,
more passive print in the same or similar colors. Finally,
tie the room together with a solid color or two that appears
in both prints.
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Use no more than one bold
pattern in a room. Select an "active" print and one or two
"passive" prints for a successful mix. Use solid colors in
the room for relief.
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Choose a soothing solid
color related to the prints in the room for background
areas. The large proportion of solid color areas will
balance the smaller areas of various prints.
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Do not combine two floral
prints that are similar in size in the same room. A small
floral print can be combined with a large floral print if
the two have similar colors.
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If the room is small,
combine prints that are color related and use solid colors
for the background area. Solid colors on the walls and floor
and low contrast in color of prints will make the room look
larger.
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Stripes work almost as a
solid. They can mix with floral, geometrics, and plaids,
but do not use all the patterns together.
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Avoid clustering all of
your patterns in the same area. Clustering would give one
area too much weight and create an unbalanced effect.
Distribute the patterns around the room.
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If the pattern on the floor
is a busy one, everything else in the room should be plain
or textured. Oriental rugs are an exception to this
guideline. They work well with other patterns, so you can
use them anywhere with anything as long as the colors are
related.
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If the pattern on the floor
is a medium impact pattern, you can use a smaller-scaled
pattern of similar colors on some furniture.
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