Pattern Play: How to Design With Prints Like a Pro

Master the art of decorating with textiles, motifs, and patterns to create a timeless and elevated home.

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Are you drawn to bold prints or subtle motifs but aren’t sure how to bring them into your home’s design? Maybe you’ve tried before and the result felt busy, unbalanced, or disconnected. Don’t worry, there’s a method to the madness.

When done right, incorporating patterns can completely transform a space. From adding character and depth to creating a personal touch, these design elements can make any room feel layered and intentional. Whether you lean into a statement print or mix multiple styles, this guide will show you how to use patterns in home decor so your interiors feel fresh, cohesive, and timeless.

Why Design with Patterns in Your Home

Patterns are one of the most powerful tools in interior design for adding visual interest and character. They can:

• Bring energy and movement into a room.

• Highlight architectural features.

• Create focal points.

• Reflect your unique style, from classic to contemporary.

There are many ways different prints can enhance the design of a space, but before we get into the how, we’re going to cover psychology, different types of styles, and more below.

Kristen Elizabeth Design, Photographer: Stephanie Russo

The Psychology of Pattern

The prints you choose affect more than aesthetics; they influence mood and perception. When picking a motif for a room, ask yourself how you want the space to feel. Below are some general guidelines for how different types of patterns can affect the vibe of a room.

• Geometrics: convey structure, order, and modernity.

• Florals: add softness and romance.

• Stripes: elongate or widen a room visually, depending on direction.

• Abstracts: create a sense of creativity and movement.

These aren’t hard and fast rules, but can help point you in the right direction when it comes to introducing pattern into your home's design.

Kristen Elizabeth Design, Photographer: Stephanie Russo

Types of Pattern

Before we dive into how you can use patterns in your home, let’s review print styles. The world of patterns is vast, but some of the most common are:

• Stripes

• Plaids and checks

• Paisley

• Florals and botanicals

• Geometrics

• Animal prints

• Toile

• Abstract

In addition to different styles, you’ll also want to be mindful of scale or size. What is pattern scale? There are 3 main types of sizes. 

• Small-scale pattern means that the print is small or fine, it can be read as texture from a distance, and layer easily.

• Medium-scale pattern means the print is medium-sized, and it’s great for adding detail without dominating.

• Large-scale pattern means that the print is oversized, and it makes a bold statement and works best in moderation.

Kristen Elizabeth Design, Photographer: Kat Alves

Patterns and Design Styles

Now that we’ve covered pattern style and scale, you’ll want to be mindful of what graphics to use based on your home’s design style. Certain patterns naturally complement specific aesthetics. For example,

• Plaids or stripes for rustic and traditional spaces.

• Chevron or abstract for contemporary designs.

• Toile or florals for country charm.

Keeping designs aligned with your home’s style helps create a sense of cohesion. But again, these are guidelines; plaids can look very modern, while abstract patterns can work well in traditional spaces. There are other ways to create a balanced design, which we’ll cover more below.

Where to Incorporate Patterns in Your Home

The ways you can use prints are endless. They can be integrated in both small touches and bold design moves. You can use graphic motifs as:

• Accents: throw pillows, blankets, rugs, drapes, and artwork.

• Large surfaces: wallpaper, upholstery, tile, or flooring.

• Unexpected places: inside cabinetry, on stair risers, or on ceilings.

Whether you want to start small or go big, keep reading for best practices below to guide you.

Designing Around One Pattern

When you fall in love with a statement print, make it the focal point and let other design elements support it. Here are good rules of thumb to consider:

Do:

• Choose a focal pattern and let it guide your color palette.

• Balance the print scale with the room size.

• Pair with solids and neutrals for visual rest.

Don’t:

• Overcrowd the space with competing busy patterns.

• Ignore your home’s existing architecture or design style.

In the kitchen of our Well Suited project, a bold black-and-white checkerboard floor anchors the design. The rest of the space features a minimal color palette and finishes that are solid or near solid in color, so the floor feels striking but not overwhelming.

Kristen Elizabeth Design, Photographer: Kat Alves

How to Mix Multiple Patterns in Interior Design

Alternatively, layering patterns can create a rich, collected look. But when mixing printed elements, balance is key. Here are some best practices:

Do:

• Mix small, medium, and large-scale patterns.

• Use a cohesive color palette to connect different prints.

• Combine different pattern types (e.g., a geometric with an organic floral).

• Repeat at least one pattern or color for unity.

Don’t:

• Use too many patterns of the same scale.

• Mix unrelated color schemes that clash.

In the living room of our Country Mood project, patterned sofa and chairs share a consistent color palette but differ in motif and scale, creating a layered, timeless feel. The pillows also coordinate, adding another layer of cohesion. The plaid sofa with a large-scale print is paired with floral pillows with medium and small-scale motifs. The chairs with the small-scale floral print just have one medium-scale printed pillow so as not to clash or look busy.

Kristen Elizabeth Design, Photographed by Nicole Dianne

Color and Pattern in Home Decor

When designing with patterns, consider the style, scale, and balance of the prints—but don’t forget about color. Color and pattern go hand in hand.

• Monochrome patterns feel refined and understated.

• High-contrast pairings create drama and excitement.

• Repeating and coordinating colors across different patterns ties a room together seamlessly.

In the living room of our Curated Craftsman project, we layered a variety of patterns, all united by a central color palette of ivory, blue-gray, and blush pink, grounded by rich wood tones. The geometric tile on the fireplace and the patterned curtains, though different in design, complement each other in both theme and hue. Floral chairs introduce a bolder motif that still connects back to the palette, while a subtly textured blue sofa adds depth without overwhelming the space.

Kristen Elizabeth Design, Photographer: Kat Alves

Next, let’s explore styles that stand the test of time and a few current favorites to refresh your space.

Trending and Timeless Patterns for Interiors

We believe the best pattern mixing tips strike a balance between classic style and a touch of the new.

• Timeless patterns: stripes, plaids, herringbone, florals, and geometrics never go out of style.

• Current favorites: oversized botanicals, playful checks, and abstract motifs add personality when used in small, changeable elements like pillows or artwork.

Invest in classics for large, permanent features, and use trends sparingly to keep your home feeling both fresh and lasting.

Need Professional Help?

Love the idea of pattern play, but not sure where to start? Take a look at our services to see how we can help! Our Designer for a Day service gives you expert guidance for a single project—or explore our full-service design options for a complete home transformation.

Ready to get started? Contact us today to discuss your unique project goals and needs.

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Make your home your favorite place to be.

KED’s Picks: 5 Fall Lifestyle Trends and Inspiration for Your Home

Fresh ideas to get you in the fall mood

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As summer draws to a close, our thoughts are turning to the months ahead and the design possibilities they bring. Today on the blog, we're sharing sources of inspiration that are shaping our vision for the upcoming season. Fall is a time of transformation, and this year, we're excited about trends that combine classic sophistication with a touch of the unexpected.

If you're ready to embrace the beauty of fall in your home, read on to discover the trends we're loving this season.

Kat Alves Photography

Runway to Room: Elevate Your Spaces With Quiet Luxury

We're always attuned to the world of fashion because what's trending on the runway often finds its way into interior design as well. This season, it’s all about Quiet Luxury and we couldn't be more thrilled. Think deep, rich hues with timeless appeal and materials that exude understated elegance. We're particularly inspired by designers like Ulla Johnson, Alejandra Alonso Rojas, and Eckhaus Latta, featuring sophisticated yet livable collections highlighting browns, reds, and yellows.

To translate this into interior design, we're embracing tailored furnishings. Think custom pieces that have been crafted just for you, like reupholstering a classic sofa or armchair with modern textiles that are thick, soft, and luxurious to the touch. It's all about creating spaces that feel both cozy and sophisticated, perfect for the fall season.

Ulla Johnson

Fall Hues: Browns, Reds, and Yellows

This season, we're seeing a resurgence of chocolate browns and rich reds, colors that naturally evoke the warmth and comfort of fall. But we're also adding a burst of joy with yellow! Whether in textiles, millwork, or as an accent color, yellow brings a cheerful vibrancy that brightens any space.

To infuse the spirit of the season into your home with classic home staples check out CB2’s Fall Collection.

Designed by Kristen Elizabeth Design, photo credit Kat Alves

Unexpected Color: Embrace Non-Traditional Fall Hues

While traditional fall hues are always a safe bet, we're all about pushing the boundaries. For those who love a bit of contrast, consider pairing bright, unexpected colors with the classic tones of the season. Think raspberry and chartreuse or pops of cerulean blue. We love this bold living room by Nicola Harding. The vibrant blue walls pair well with the olive sofas, two colors you wouldn’t think work, complement each other so well.

If you’d like to incorporate color more subtly, try weaving pops of color into your home through smaller accents. Like a colorful Kitchen-Aid Mixer, a bright blue vase, or even corner stained glass accents for upper passageways.

One of our go-to brands for endless color inspiration is Mind the Gap. We admire their ability to blend bold designs with a timeless, classic appeal. Whether you’re looking for a daring accent piece or a statement wall covering you’ll find something beautiful, luxurious, and timeless.

Page.TheShop

Cozy Up: Fall Staples for Comfort and Style

As the days grow shorter and the nights cooler, it's time to indulge in some cozy essentials. Whether picking up a new Kindle case from Page, paired with an inviting throw blanket for those long reading sessions, or adding a scarf to your wardrobe (or even your home décor), the key is to surround yourself with things that make you feel warm and comfortable. 

J. Mills Studio

Elevate Fall Classics: Add a Touch of Glam

Fall is also the perfect time to accessorize with statement jewelry. Non-traditional pieces with colorful jewels, especially in gold and chalcedony, are a go-to for us. For modern, handcrafted beautiful jewelry, we love J. Mills Studio and Dana Kellin.

Whether you like classic gold, silver, or prefer a splash of color, there's no better way to add a personal touch to your fall look.

Design- Kristen Elizabeth Design, Photo credit- Kat Alves

Here’s to a Cozy Stylish Season

Fall is the perfect time to refresh your home with thoughtful, intentional design choices. Whether you're drawn to the understated elegance of Quiet Luxury, the warmth of classic fall hues, or the boldness of unexpected color combinations, there are countless ways to make your space feel both cozy and stylish.

At KED, we're inspired by the possibilities that fall brings. It's a time to play with textures, explore new color palettes, and layer in those inviting elements that make a house feel like a home. Whether you're looking to make a subtle change or a bold statement, we hope these trends inspire you to embrace the season with creativity and confidence. 

If you're ready to turn your dream spaces into reality, we'd be honored to help. We’re just an email or a phone call away—we're here to make your vision come to life!

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Ready to get started? Contact us today to discuss your unique project goals and needs.

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Make your home your favorite place to be.