11/30/23, 11:15 AM Lesson 9 Pattern 23

Pattern is the uniform repetition of any of the elements of art or any

combination thereof. Anything can be turned into a pattern through
repetition. Some classic patterns are spirals, grids, weaves. For examples
of different pattern types see the Artlandia Glossary of Pattern
Design. A popular drawing practice is Zentangles, in which an abstract
or representational outline is divided into different areas, each of which
contains a unique pattern.

PATTERN
Pattern relates to the repetition of a graphic motif on a material.
Remember that texture refers to the 2D quality of a surface, where as a
pattern relates to illustrative perception. In commercial interior design,
pattern is often applied using wallcoverings, tile, carpeting, and other
graphic elements.
HALF DROP REPEAT PATTERN
In a half drop repeat, the artwork is repeated along horizontal and
vertical lines just like in a full drop repeat. This time, however, the
horizontal repeat is staggered. The motif repeats perfectly on the
vertical line but then drops exactly half of the vertical repeat along the
horizontal line,

REPEAT PATTERN
A Repeat Pattern is the repetition of lines, shapes, tones, colors,
textures and forms .
HOW TO CREATE THE 7 MOST COMMON
SURFACE PATTERN REPEATS

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Being able to create seamless pattern repeats is one

of the most fundamental aspects of being a surface

pattern designer. It’s a little overwhelming, to begin

with, but once you understand the basics you’ll find

that pattern repeats are nothing more than

mathematical formulas. Let me simplify it and

explain:

HOW TO CREATE THE 7 MOST COMMON SURFACE

PATTERN REPEATS

1. FULL DROP/BLOCK PATTERN REPEAT

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One of the most common and simplest of all repeat

systems is the full drop or block surface pattern

repeat. The repeat unit is created by stacking the

original repeat block in a grid format. Although it’s

often created as a square unit, full drop repeats can

also be rectangular.

2. HALF DROP PATTERN REPEAT

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Another very commonly used surface pattern repeat is

the half drop. It consists of the repeat unit being

stack ed vertically in a colu mn f or mat which is then

offset by half in the next vertical row. Because of

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this, half drop pattern repeats are a great way at

quickly allowing the design to look less formal.

3. BRICK PATTERN REPEAT

Just like the half drop, the brick repeat unit is also

very commonly used in surface pattern repeats. It’s

very similar to the half drop pattern repeat except

instead of the repeat unit being stacked vertically in

a column format, it is stacked horizontally. The repeat

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unit is then offset by half in the next horizontal row

resembling a brick wall. As a result, just like with the

half drop pattern repeats, brick repeats allow a design

to look less formal.

4. DIAMOND PATTERN REPEAT

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A dia mon d surface pattern repeat is s imply created

with a repeating dia mo nd sh ap e this th ere fore resu lts

in the elements being arranged in diagonal rows.

5. OGEE PATTERN REPEAT

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An ogee surface pattern repeat is similar to the

diamond repeat except it has rounded edges at the

sides and points at the top and bottom, much like an

onion.

6. TOSSED/ RANDOM PATTERN REPEAT

In a tossed/random surface pattern repeat, the

elements of the design are scattered within the repeat

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unit. The unstructured nature of a tossed repeat

results in a very organic and non-linear design.

7. STRIPE PATTERN REPEAT

The stripe surface pattern repeat is a layout that has

a strong vertical, horizontal or diagonal

format. Stripes don’t need to be restricted to being

made up of blocks of colour. Some other ways to use

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stripes include blocks of texture, patterns, repeated

motifs, zig zags or wavy lines.

Choosing the right pattern repeat for your design will

depend on what sort of look and feel you are after.

The great thing is once you have your motifs, you can

keep experimenting with the different repeat layouts

until you get the result that you are after.

I hope this has given you a good understanding of

what’s possible in the world of surface pattern repeats

and has inspired you to start creating your own pattern

repeats.

Fabric designs : 25 types of commonly used Pattern Repeats

The job of a textile designer is so fascinating – ideating and creating
beautiful prints and patterns on fabrics all day long. After all Textile
design is the art of designing those prints and patterns on fabrics. A
textile designer creates patterns keeping in mind current trends, style
specifications, motifs, their own drawings, colors as well as the technical
and ethical and cultural considerations and then communicate it via the
medium of textiles.

But how do they arrange these patterns?. It is an innovative and creative

way of arranging the prints and patterns that form the crux of textile
design. How do they get it right every time? Are they randomly placed
or are they the result of deliberate planning? As a layman How can I

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decipher these prints and patterns in a language I can understand. These

are all questions that came to me when I was writing about the different
kinds of ( about 80+) fabric patterns.

First and foremost there are many industry standards that these patterns
should adhere to. Then there are considerations like the use of the fabric
(whether it is apparel fabric, furnishing textile etc) and type of the fabric
itself (whether it is woven or knitted etc). Then finally comes the task of
arranging the motifs.

In all patterns and prints on textiles, you will find there is a repeat – ie
the identical or dissimilar motifs are arranged with horizontal or vertical
distance between them in a repeated manner. There are infinite ways of
arranging these repeats on the fabric – but some basic layouts are
commonly used individually or collectively to form the patterns that you
see on fabrics

25 classifications of patterns in textile designs according to the

arrangement of motifs in the pattern
Allover layout (Overall)

Allover basically means covering the whole extent or surface. This is a

layout with motifs distributed all over the fabric – Here the motifs are

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randomly placed with regular or irregular spacing between them, but

usually very close to each other and facing different directions
Block Repeat

(other names are Basic repeat, Full drop repeat, Square

Repeat, Straight-across repeat, straight repeat)

In this type of repeat, the motifs are placed directly on a horizontal line
to the left or right of the original motif. ie they are laid up and down
and/or side to side. It is the most simple layout; when complete it looks
as if the motifs are stacked in an imaginary grid

Tossed layout

(Other names random layout or irregular pattern layout)

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In this layout the motifs are scattered randomly; there is no symmetry or

any formal arrangement to the motifs; the motifs are placed in a
repeating fashion but without a specific plan or calculation.
Border layout

This is designed so that the motifs are placed on the edge of the fabric
Brick Layout

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This is a layout in which every second row is placed halfway to the front
– it looks like the way bricks are laid out on the brick wall. ( Sometimes
called Half brick layout as well)
Half drop repeat layout

This is a very popular layout in fabric pattern design. In this, the motif is
repeated vertically such that the motif on the next column is placed
down half of the length of the motif above it ie motif is repeated halfway
down the side in the vertical direction. The end result is a pattern that
steps downwards each row. In a half drop layout, the repeat can be said
to be staggered vertically or horizontally.

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Diamond layout

In this motifs are placed in a pattern resembling a diamond shape

Striped layout

In this layout motifs are arranged in a line across the fabric; it could be
vertical, horizontal or diagonal
Check layout

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The motifs are placed so that the whole pattern looks like a plaid / check
design
Turnover layout

This is a pattern in which the motifs are flipped horizontally or vertically

Composite repeat

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This is a repeat of patterns with two or more symmetrical motifs in one

pattern – these motifs are mirrored or reversed or rotated to create new
designs. A composite overlay refers to the pattern formed when two or
more motifs are placed on top of each other. New motifs are created as a
result of this combination or superimposition and the new colour which
results from this creates new designs.
Counterchange

This refers to patterns in which the motif and the background reverse in
colour- a two colour symmetrical patterns.

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Diaper

These are small scale intricate multi coloured patterns formed by

interlocking geometric shapes
Fall-On

This pattern has motifs/elements/threads which overlap – this results in a

different colour than the original where they intersect. You can find this
on tartan patterns

Foulard

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This is a layout with small motifs repeated all over the fabric in a block
repeat layout.
Non-directional layout
(Un-directional pattern)

This is a layout which results in the pattern looking the same from any
direction
One-directional

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This is a layout in which the pattern has a distinct top and bottom – you
would get a good view only from one direction. Same as One-way
Layout; the motifs will all be facing one single direction
Two-directional Pattern

In this kind of layout you will find that the motifs face two different
directions. Similar to Two-way Layout ; In this half the motifs face an
opposite direction, for example, up and down.
Four-way Layout

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In this layout the motifs are placed so that they face all four directions
Positive-Negative layout

In this, the motif ( positive) and the background (negative area) have
identical shapes or atleast they look like shapes not just a background
and the motif
Freize pattern layout

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A frieze pattern is an infinite strip with a repeating pattern. This pattern

repeats in only one direction and is usually used as a border design
Gradation pattern

This pattern type has motifs of different sizes and/or shades of colours
Interlocking Pattern

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In this layout the motifs are linked together or connected to each other in
someway or the other
Packed

This is a layout in which the motifs are placed close together

Asymmetrical layout

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This is a layout in which you will not find any symmetry in the
placement of motifs or the motifs themselves – no rhyme or reason why
they are arranged the way they are but can be as equally captivating as
any carefully planned motif placements

Placement print
This is not a repeat as such but this is a kind of placement of fabric
pattern such that a strong motif or design is formed and it is usually the
highlight of the clothing.

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Fabric Designers do not consider these layouts in isolation – they are

most of the time overlapped – a single pattern can have many of these
elements in it.

Now that I know some of these names and where they are used, next
time some one asks me what pattern I have made with my sewing or
painting I suppose I will sprout high jargon like “This is a Two
directional turnover layout with foulard pattern” or such. Hope you will
too.

Must reads if you really want to learn more on fabric design :

Repeat Patterns: a manual for designers, artists and architects, by Peter

Phillips and Gillian Bunce.

Design Principles: Repetition, Pattern, and Rhythm

The use of repeated design elements is a controversial topic in the
creative industry. The distinction between, on the one hand, mundane
repetition at the expense of creativity and, on the other hand, a belief in
the importance of maintaining good practice to deliver effective visual

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results for the end user has the design industry in the debate. While
acknowledging the importance of creativity in the design layout, we also
recognise the centrality of user experience to ensure effective design and
meeting the usability through building coherent yet creative design
layout.

This article focuses on best practice in design principles, how to apply

these best practices into the design, and a focus on improving the user
experience. To do this, we will discuss three of the main approaches
when using repeated design elements: repetition; pattern and rhythm.

Related articles:

 The Role of White Space in User Interface Design

Repetition
Repetition in design can work in a number of different ways. Having
repeating design elements within work is not inherently a flawed
approach. Rather, repetition allows for a single point to be repeated
numerous times throughout. One of the examples that can clarify the
principle of repetition is the set of stairs: each step is individual, but is
repeated with similar size/shape in a sequence to form the stairway
itself.

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Example of the repetition in photography (photo by Thomas Hawk)

When thinking of design, we can consider issues including a core,
central message or element in the design layout. Web design, for
example, has a similar concept, where repetition allows for
standardisation and consistency in approach. Where menu options and
design elements, including logos, are repeated allows users a
comfortable, known experience in page navigation – and can provide
necessary breadcrumbs for users. This can be done by using imagery or
icons, or colors or text style, to provide the user with a simplified,
consistent message across the platform.

Pattern

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Patterns can have multiple meanings and elements in design. Repetition

focuses on the same object being repeated; patterns are made up from
different components which are then repeated in the same way
throughout the design. A seamless pattern is one that flows throughout
without flaw in the beginning or end: the entire pattern is a single,
coherent unit. This approach to design becomes especially important
when thinking about designs which incorporate significant amounts of
color, texture or depth.

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Islamic patter example (photo by Rafiq Elmansy)

Using a pattern can be complex. As with the photography example
above, however, patterns can be used to put the user at ease and to allow
them navigation tools throughout the design. In architecture, patterns in
the forms of motifs have been used to improve the aesthetic quality of

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the structure, to stamp design authority, and to provide necessary user

guidance. The use of such patterns can enhance the user experience, as
well as the design and look of the final product, but must be used wisely
so as to avoid a complicated layout or unattractive design.

Rhythm
Unlike repetition and pattern above, rhythm has slightly more
complexity to it. Where repetition and pattern require the same design
element to be repeated throughout the design in the same way, rhythm
requires the repetition of a variety of design elements in a specific order.
As a result, individual design elements may not repeat or be the same at
all points; rather, their repetition is adaptive and changes throughout the
design.

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Rhythm can be observed in architecture design such as Australia Opera

House (photo by: unknown)
This approach to design can be viewed as the musical approach to
design: individual notes are arranged in different orders at different
points, but the overall finished piece retains design coherence.
Alternatively, a set of waves crashing against the shore might be said to
follow a design rhythm. While each, individual wave is unique, the
overall process has a design rhythm.

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Owing to its complexity, rhythm has a number of sub-divisions in how it

can be conceived or implemented. Regular rhythm is similar to the idea
of a pattern: the design elements are repeated in the same manner
throughout the design. Flowing rhythm allows for a greater diversity of
design elements, but with great diversity in the elements’ size, sequence,
nature, and so on. Lastly, progressive rhythm allows for the greatest
amount of diversity. Elements are repeated, but there is variation in any
of the elements throughout.

Repetition and The User Experience

As noted above, the use of repetition, pattern and rhythm are one of the
key elements in enhancing and improving the experience for users.
Whether it be in architecture or web design, the use of recognisable,
repeating imagery or patterns allows users to identify their place within a
wider structure.

As such, adopting design elements including the repetition of visual

elements, arranging important icons in similar places across websites, or
repeating content across the design can allow for a more streamlined
user experience. This approach allows for a clarity of information and
structure, and can allow the web designer a scaffold around which to
build a clarity of information. When designing websites, designers
should think of the repetition of visual elements, the patterns they create
throughout, and the use of rhythm to put users at ease.

In utilizing these approaches to design, the user experience is put at the

forefront of the design ideology. Designers should develop a keen
awareness and understanding of the important principals behind design
repetition, design, pattern and design rhythm.

ELEMENTS OF DESIGN PART 3: TEXTURE AND PATTERN

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DESIGN FIRM CABINET BRAUN-BRAËN CREATED

A WARM AND INTIMATE RESTAURANT

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ENVIRONMENT BY APPLYING TEXTURE USING A

BRICK WALL FINISH.
Before we talk about texture and how it can affect an interior space, let’s
quickly debrief on the term “elements of design”. To create visually
appealing spaces, interior designers apply various elements of design –
line and shape, colour, texture & pattern, proportion, and light. In recent
posts we discussed how lines and colour could be applied in commercial
interiors to communicate a corporate message through a built
environment, today let’s focus on texture and pattern.

TEXTURE

TEXTURE REIGNS IN THIS PROJECT FOR LAMPE

GRAS FITTING BY RAW FOR THE FUORISALONE

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2014,. I BET YOU WOULDN’T HAVE GUESSED

THAT A LOT OF THIS TEXTURE WAS CREATED
USING THE “IN MIND” WALLCOVERING FROM
WALL AND DECO!
When an interior designer refers to texture they are speaking to the
surface quality of a material. Every surface has a texture whether it be
smooth or rough, bumpy or flat. Our perception of texture is also
influenced by the textures of adjacent surfaces, our viewing distance, as
well as the lighting applied. For example, rough surfaces seem more
textured next to smooth surfaces, when viewed up close, and when
grazed with light (i.e. lit from the side).
Additionally, texture can be described as either tactile or visual. Tactile
texture relates to the actual feeling of a surface – smooth, rough, soft,
hard, etc. Visual texture is our perception of what a texture might feel
like. In other words, we often make assumptions about the texture of a
material based on our memory of touching similar surfaces.
At Hatch Interior Design, we often incorporate texture to enforce the
design concept. As discussed, texture helps to differentiate various
objects and surfaces, transform light, and influence scale, but it can also
communicate a particular design style. For example, typically when you
envision a modern interior, glossy materials and minimally textured
surfaces come to mind. These types of surfaces communicate a sleek and
simple design style that often relates to contemporary interiors.
PATTERN

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SEE HOW THIS COLOURFUL PATTERN REALLY

ADDS INTEREST TO THIS BOARDROOM
DESIGNED BY EMMANUELLE MOUREAUX
ARCHITECTURE AND DESIGN?
Although pattern can help to add texture to a space it has a very different
definition. Pattern relates to the repetition of a graphic motif on a
material. Remember that texture refers to the 2D quality of a surface,
where as a pattern relates to illustrative perception.
In commercial interior design, pattern is often applied using
wallcoverings, tile, carpeting, and other graphic elements. Like texture,
pattern can also define surfaces, impact scale, convey a design style, and
add visual interest to a space. Be careful when applying pattern; if it’s
not well balanced it can really overwhelm an interior environment.

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As mentioned, texture and pattern have a huge role in defining the

design style of a space. This is why in commercial interior design, it is
very important that these elements are applied in a way that relate to the
corporate brand of the business. Send the right message to your
customers by applying the various elements of design in and effective
way.

Importance of Pattern in Interior Design

A pattern is one of the integral elements in the world of interior design. If

you have understood the concept and significance of decorating your
home with patterns, you have unlocked a new stage in interior design.
There is a science behind pattern as it tends to create illusions through
the horizontal and verticals lines. This cast an impression of taller and
broader looking spaces.

Even seasoned interior designers take time to comprehend

the patterns and then introduce them in a room. These designers have
worked on several projects of interiors in Delhi and help their clients to
make the most out of their space.

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Important aspects of pattern in interior design:

Pattern adds drama: Have you ever heard of a daily soap without any
drama? Though we wish to avoid drama in our life without a little show,
everything around us will turn boring and dull. Your home interiors also

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follow the same concept; when there is no drama and a sense of

dynamism, your space will risk into being boring and forgettable.

Through pattern, you can inject drama into your space, which can be
exciting and add a wow-factor in your home. Thus, you need to have a
fair idea regarding patterns, or else it can spoil your interiors’ taste. If
you use it correctly, that it can be the celebrity of your home interior.

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Patterns play with texture: Pattern can be used in accord with other
design elements like texture to emphasise your room’s aspects. A pattern
in combination with varied textured surfaces can project differently.

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Some patterns will pop out remarkably with texture, so you need to
check how you are working on the combination scheme of the two.
Overall, this can bring the elements in co-ordination and paint a cohesive
theme of a room.

Pattern establishes energy: Pattern helps to establish lively energy in

the interiors. A chunk of pattern seems to be insignificant but when it
covers a big space, it is spread all over. There is a sense of movement
you can notice in the pattern, and this exhibits a beautiful feature.
Especially when an area lacks spirit try to introduce pattern in the space
to make it look more invigorating.

Pattern gives direction and dimension: Pattern reflects a depth in the

space and grabs the attention of your eyes. A pattern has the ability to
add the effect of a three-dimension in a two-dimensional room.

People often feel that pattern tends to create a distraction, but most
importantly, it goes to work with the illustrative perception. The pattern
gives gravity to a surface, convey a design style and incorporates a visual
interest in the space.

Pattern can be mixed not matched: The concept of pattern is a bit

tricky to understand, but if you absorb it, you can easily play with it in
the home interiors. Patterns are repeated in a particular space but are
these are never matched.

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For example, you can follow a particular pattern for your flooring's and
another pattern for your walls. There must be a fair play of mixing the
patterns in a room so that it renders a fascinating vibe.

Patterns are quite an eccentric part of interior designing, which requires

an intense approach. It is better to discuss the ideas with the best interior
design company in Delhi ( https://www.zadinteriors.com/city/interior-
designers-delhi ) and get the work done.

DESIGN RULES: TEXTURE AND PATTERN

Texture and Pattern are tricky design elements to play around with.
People are very connected to their sense of touch, so texture in particular
is a very important element in a space. Just think about how children
need to touch everything to experience it. When designing a room, the
use of texture and pattern adds the comfort factor and heightens our
experience of the space.

What is Texture?

Texture is simply the surface quality of a material. It could be smooth,

rough, bumpy or flat. When we look at a surface, our perception of that
surface is influenced by the texture of the adjacent surface. Eg: rough
surfaces seem more textured next to smooth surfaces. The lighting
applied to a surface can also influence the texture. Eg: a light shining up
a stone wall casts shadows making the wall seem more textured.

What is Pattern?

Pattern is the repetition of a graphic motif on a surface, most often on

fabric and wallpaper in our homes. While texture refers to the physical
quality of the surface, pattern creates an illustrative perception.

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12 Tips to Help You Use Texture and Pattern in Your Home

 Don’t underestimate the power of texture and pattern, both have an

important role in drawing the elements of a room together and
making it appear welcoming. Be careful to ensure that the ‘visual
weight’ of these elements is balanced.
.
 Because of the strong associations that we have with materials,
textures and patterns can be used to make a space appropriate for a
particular purpose or for an individual.
.
 Light will affect texture: direct light will enhance it, whereas
diffused light will detract from it. Every texture also reflects light
differently, so use shiny reflective textures where more light is
needed and darker, more absorbent textures where the light level is
too high.
.
 Infants and children are constantly searching for new visual stimuli
to learn more about the world. Cater for this interest by including
stimulating patterns and textures in the rooms where they sleep and
play.
.
 High-contrast, visually stimulating patterns can be disorientating,
so use them subtly in your interior.
.
 Choosing a pattern for an interior is the most instant way of
‘buying into’ a given style. An initial selection of fabric or
wallpaper can even provide the colour, design and style basis for
the whole room.
.
 Choose wallpapers and fabrics with a vertical design emphasis to
give an impression of more height. Use horizontal textures across
the short length of a room to draw the eye across and increase the
length of the space.
.

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 Non-geometric patterned wallpaper will provide good camouflage

for walls with surface irregularities.
.
 Heavily patterned designs have a tendency to advance towards the
observer, whereas less dense patterns will not be as powerful.
.
 Use texture and pattern to create areas of interest to guide the eye
to particular focal points.
.
 Too large a repeat used as a wallcovering will make a room appear
smaller, so use large-scale patterns on large areas or expanses of
wall and smaller patterns on smaller walls.
.
 Balance strong patterns with more subdued ones to avoid
overpowering a room. Think of using these elements in layers,
from strong to subtle, creating a balanced look.
These are great elements to play around with and can be done is small
amounts too. Use bold patterns on your cushions, combine it with a
similar coloured highly textured cushions, see what happens in your
space. You can have a lot of fun by playing around with texture and
pattern.

Serial Renovator: 5 Ways That Patterns Create a Powerful Interior

Patterns add drama, create depth and are an effective way to unify an
interior scheme. Still need convincing? Read on

Alice PearsonAugust 8, 2017

Houzz New Zealand Contributor. Alice + Caleb Pearson, winners of The
Block NZ 2013 and creators of Pearson + Projects, a renovation blog
about projects, ideas and inspiration for DIY enthusiasts, home makers
and renovators. www.pearsonandprojects.com
More

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SaveComment2Like9
Share
When pattern is mentioned in interior design, it is easy to associate it
with a geometric-patterned wallpaper or colourful prints on interior
fabrics. But patterns are created constantly in interiors, often in ways
you might not expect, and they play an important role in a scheme.

Pattern gives you the ability to bring energy, interest and contrast into
your design, and when patterns are done well they bring a room together
and give depth to your space. From minimal to eclectic, traditional to
modern, pattern plays a part in every interior style and it’s worth
considering as you make design decisions. Here I open your eyes to the
possibilities of pattern.

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Trevor Brown
Architect
Before you decide what pattern to use, I find it helps to understand what
a pattern can achieve in your interior design. So here are five reasons I
use patterns in my design.

See more monochrome kitchens

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Greg Natale
1. Pattern adds drama
Try watching a TV show without any drama – it would be boring and
dull. As much as we may suggest we avoid drama in our lives, you have
to admit a little bit of drama creates excitement and gives you something
to talk about with friends. Your interior is no different – when there is no
drama, no contrast or sense of dynamism in a space, it runs the risk of
being boring and forgettable.

Patterns are a sure way of creating drama in your space, they are likely
to be the feature in your home that creates wow-factor. Sure, I have seen
my fair share of patterns that make you take a second look – and for all
the wrong reasons. But done right, patterns will be the hero of your
design.

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ACDF Architecture
2. Pattern gives dimension and direction
What I love about pattern is that it creates depth in a room by drawing
your eye. A pattern (whether it be a print on the wall or the layout of
tiles on the floor or wall) has the ability to take a plain, two-dimensional
surface and give it almost a three-dimensional presence.

People can sometimes avoid patterns for fear that they may distract from
an overall design, but I hold the opinion that pattern brings more
dimension to a room while drawing your eye to a focal point.

Don’t you just love this view? I love that the pattern created by the lines
of the wooden ceiling and floorboards ensures that is exactly where you
look.

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Ben Callery Architects

This doesn’t mean you need to draw stripes all over your white walls –
this direction and dimension can be created in a very simple way for
even the most pared-back interiors. Here is a great example of that; the
splashback creates a strong dimension within this space while the
flooring layout and the timber detailing in the island panel, as well as the
timber panelling on the ceiling, ensures your eye is drawn along the
whole kitchen to the outside entertaining area.

12 ways to wow with patterned tiles

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pablo veiga
3. Pattern brings energy
Pattern has an energy, simply because it is repetitive. One timber panel
by itself would seem insignificant, but when it is repeated over and over
again along a wall, there is an energy, a sense of movement; the
repetition takes you on a journey.

Tip: When a space lacks energy, colour is normally our first go-to, but
don’t discount looking at pattern as a way to remedy that.

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Resene
4. Pattern brings emphasis
Pattern can be used, alongside other elements of interior design, to
emphasise aspects of a room. For example, a high, pitched ceiling can be
given emphasis by a row of exposed beams, tall doors are emphasised by
vertical panelling, and a large kitchen island is emphasised by a marble
pattern on the benchtop.

Tip: Using vertical lines repeatedly will make something look even

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higher, and repeated horizontal lines make something appear wider,

while round patterns can make a room soft and create more sense of
space.

Nathan + Jac
5. Patterns brings it all together
Pattern brings unity; it can draw elements of a room together to make
one cohesive design. Pattern can be the tool that takes a room from a
space with a lot of nice pieces to a cohesive interior scheme.

How to work with white, grey and beige

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mckimm residential design

A pattern can bring all the shapes, lines, textures and colours of a room
together by reflecting small elements of each, giving them a purpose for
being present and emphasising their role in the room.

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Anthony Baratta LLC

Often when interior design is done well, people respond by saying, ‘I
wouldn’t think that all of these elements would all work together, but
somehow they do’. Patterns are often like the missing element of an
outfit, that finishing touch in accessories that makes all your other
selections make sense. I have often placed a patterned cushion in a space
and it makes the wall colour, the furniture layout and flooring texture all
come together – I have even designed a whole room around the pattern
of a rug.

How to decorate with patterns like an interior designer

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ARTICLE BY YOUR HOME AND GARDEN

Decorating with pattern may seem scary but, by following these simple
rules, you’ll have the confidence to add bold designs to your home like a
stylist.

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How to decorate with patterns like an interior designer

While many people find using pattern in the home a little intimidating,
it’s a wonderful way to personalise your space and can really lift a room
from ordinary to spectacular. Pattern can be added into your interior
scheme in a variety of ways from wallpaper to curtains, tiles and
bedlinen. While your spaces should be all about what you love, there are
a few guidelines worth considering if you are keen to add a splash or
more of pattern.

Floral
Flower-based patterns never go out of style – they’ve been around for
centuries and offer a reassuring connection both to the past and to our
natural environment. A small-scale 1960s flower print feels whimsical
and romantic, while a hyper-real, colourful floral harks back to the
vibrant still lifes of the 16th and 17th centuries. There’s a floral era out
there for everyone, including lovers of minimalism, who may prefer a
more subtle, abstract floral motif.

Balance
The key to using pattern successfully in your room is balance. The
ultimate aim is to spread pattern around the room, not pile it up in one
spot. It is important to combine pattern with block colours that match
those found in your pattern to make the room feel cohesive.

A good rule to keep in mind when deciding which pattern to go for is to

think about the size of the room. The larger the space, the larger the
pattern or print you can use, whereas the smaller the space, the smaller
the pattern.

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With stripes, remember that vertical lines create the impression of

greater height while horizontal lines appear to widen a space. Stripes are
also often used in period homes, and go surprisingly well with spots.

Mixing patterns
These days it’s okay to mix patterns, but it’s a good idea to pick a
limited colour palette. For example, black and white is always foolproof,
as are most neutrals.

The key is to experiment with different scales of the patterns you’ve

chosen. If using florals, try combining large-scale prints with a tiny
flower or foliage design. Florals also work well when teamed with
stripes.

Animals prints seem to fade in and out of fashion but adding a few to a
neutral scheme can really bring it to life. Stick to just two or three
patterns to avoid a zoo effect!

Whatever patterns you choose to use in your home, make sure you add
some plain and complementary colours into the mix so the overall effect
is fun rather than full-on.

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Geometric
Repetition is what makes geometric patterns so pleasing to the eye, as a
nice, predictable visual order makes us feel safe and secure. Soften a
geometric look by selecting rounded forms, such as the tiles below.
Alternatively, if you fall in love with a square or spiky design, contrast it
with curvy ceramics, soft linens and organic shapes such as pot plants.

Where can I use pattern?

Pattern can be added into your living spaces in a variety of ways, from
soft furnishings such as drapes, cushions, rugs and throws to larger
furniture items such as a sideboard, coffee table or sofa.
The aim is to limit the number of patterns to between two and four and
balance them with plain colours. For instance, in the bedroom a
patterned duvet can provide a focal point to a plain room when
complemented by plain colours in sheets and blankets.

When it comes to using pattern in the bathroom, most of us opt for a

plain and neutral scheme but, if done right, a patterned tile on the
bathroom floor or in the shower can transform a utilitarian space into
somewhere decorative and delightful. The same can be said for the
kitchen, where a patterned tiled splashback in a plain kitchen injects a
shot of personality and energy into the space.

If you do pick a patterned tile for either of these spaces, it is important to

repeat colours from the design in a few other areas so the room feels
cohesive. This could be done through coloured towels, storage baskets
or a soap dispenser in the bathroom, or via coloured appliances, tea
towels, crockery and so on in the kitchen.

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Tropical
This bold look is all about creating a sense of being surrounded by lush
greenery, so you can really go to town with multiple botanical prints on
the walls and soft furnishings. Add tropical artwork and accessories to
take your room to the next level, but also remember to give the eye a rest
by including a clean, simple neutral such as white or cool grey for
contrast.

Wallpaper
We are seeing a lot more people being brave with wallpaper these days
and this is a great option for adding a pattern to a space. The good news
is that with so many amazing wallpaper designs out there, the hardest
part is selecting one. Botanical palm prints are very popular for creating
a tropical feeling all year round, and there is one to suit every decor style
and budget.

Sometimes it’s the small or unexpected spaces that can really deliver a
punch. Consider using an ornate wallpaper in a powder room or hanging
a whimsical pattern in the home office to make it an inviting space.
Papering an alcove, behind shelves or below a kitchen island are other
ways to make a concentrated impact.

Whether you introduce some simple spots or stripes to your walls,

furniture and fabrics, or go wild with animal prints, have fun playing
with pattern in your home!

 MEET THE TASTEMAKER

 BEHIND THE BRAND

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 INSPIRATION

 LIFESTYLE

 THE SOUND OF LUXDECO

 PODCAST

INSPIRATION

FORMS OF GEOMETRIC SHAPES & PATTERNS IN

INTERIOR DESIGN

A lesson in geometric interior design

By Linda Holmes, Interiors Director

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What is it that interior aficionados mean when they refer to

‘geometric design’? Do flashbacks of days at school come to
mind as you try to figure out how what you learnt from
protractors and maths books can affect your decor?

Geometric interior design is much less dry but there are some
textbook ways to reference it in room styling and scheming.
Here’s how to understand and exercise the trend.

WHAT ARE GEOME TRI C SHAPES & PATTERNS?

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Points, lines, surfaces, form, shape, angles – all words associated

with geometry be it in the classroom or in the world of design.
Fundamentally, geometric forms always come back to one thing
– shape. But knowing how to incorporate them into your interior
means knowing the answer to what exactly is a geometric shape?

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Image Credit: Martyn Lawrence Bullard

Geometric shapes and patterns (formed of a series of geometric

shapes) are everywhere. They can be two-dimensional or three.
They can be angular or they can be as smooth as an arc.

Circles, ovals and crescents are as geometric as triangles,

squares and hexagons, even though it’s a common misconception
that geometric shapes in interior design always consist of strong,
cutting lines.

Without getting too granular on concepts and algebra, the basics

of geometric design are about focusing on what are referred to as
man-made shapes.

So the regular and irregular shapes you’d have learnt about at

school (from parallelograms to cubes) rather than shapes that
come from natural objects (from plant and animal species) and so
on. So a cushion cover with a quatrefoil motif would be an
example of a non-geometric pattern, whereas a triangle-printed
cover would pass with flying geometric colours.

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Image Credit: The Dumont by St James

TYPES OF GEOME TRI C SHAPES & P ATTE RN S IN

INTERIOR DESIGN
Most people already have a degree of geometric home decor, but
to up the ante, start with some simple geometric patterns that
feature any of these classic contenders:

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Image Credit: Martyn Lawrence Bullard, Photography: Tim

Street Porter (L), Rigby & Rigby (R)

SQUARES:
When you look at geometric design images, it’s easy to home in
on textile prints rather than the forms of key pieces of
furniture and accessories in the room and their innate
geometry. Side tables , mirrors , rugs , cushions, and even tissue
boxes are typically represented as a strong-sided square or cube
in stature. Repeat that stance around the room and you’ll create a
more subtle geometric pattern.

TRIANGLES:
One of the icons in geometric design, patterns with triangles are
confident and dynamic and will make your room feel energised.
Try not to mix too many different types of triangle in the same
space though or it can quickly overwhelm. It’s far more effective
to stick with one or two and to use them sparingly.

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Image Credit: Helen Green Design

CIRCLES:
Much like with squares, it’s surprisingly easy to make circular
geometric patterns in interior design. Coffee tables can be
circular, elongated circles in lozenge-shaped form are a huge
trend right now and suit central pieces of furniture like
footstools, and mirrors and rugs come in a huge array of circular
sizes.

It’s a good idea to contrast strong-lined geometric shapes with

the softer circular sort to create balance and harmony.

HE XAGON S:
While the Ancient Greeks were known to be early adopters of
geometric design in their interiors because of how it achieved
structure and serenity, certain shapes will always feel that bit
more daring and pace-changing. Cue the hexagon.

Feature hexagonal form on a contemporary side table, through

a wall sconce ’s bracket or even on a set of coasters , and you’ll
immediately notice the effect it has on a room’s personality.

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Image Credit: Greg Natale

HO W T O STYLE GEOME TRI C FURNI TURE AND

HO ME DECOR
Almost all types of geometric pattern when used en masse are
typically linked to three styles of aesthetic – Art Deco, Mid-
Century and Contemporary. Here, you can afford to style a room
with multiple sorts of shape and pattern, but it’s still important
to not go overboard or no one shape gets its moment in the
spotlight.

Too many references to geometric design means each pop gets

watered down and there’s little cohesion.

Either stick to one category of shape and repeat throughout the

room – this is one way of how to make a geometric pattern in a
statement-worthy way, such as in the line-focussed Greg Natale
bedroom where wallpaper, throw and pillows share the same
point of view.

Similarly, the Martyn Lawrence bathroom lets the square take

centre stage by using it from head to toe in tile work. Or pick
three and spread them to cover geometric furniture and geometric
home accessories in whatever volume works for you.

The Interior Marketing Group’s living room mixes line, square

and triangle in its artwork alone and yet the overall effect is
subtle.

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