6 Foolproof Tips for Being a Pattern-Mixing Pro

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This story originally appeared in the Spring 2019 issue of Domino, titled “Pattern Play.” Subscribe to be the first to receive each issue.

Our new fabric collaboration with Robert Allen @ Home —a collection of 14 prints and more than eight colorways—is a celebration of creativity. (In other words, pattern play has never been this fun.) Each design draws inspiration from the works of iconic artists across eras and mediums—the exuberant geometries of Sol LeWitt, the sculptural weavings of Sheila Hicks, the lush landscapes of Paul Gauguin, and the tropical dream world of Frida Kahlo.

With that in mind, the line is made to mix and match. Try a bold abstract with a fluid brushstroke or a clean stripe with a punchy floral. Here are six more ideas for embracing a pattern-forward refresh in your own space.

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Pillows covered in O’Keeffe Bloom in High Noon and Hicks Weave in High Noon Robert Allen @ Home; Nelson Pear Floor Lamp by Herman Miller Design Within Reach; Art throughout Art and Frame Source Photography by Jesse Williams

Build on neutrals

Begin with an all-white or neutral base and infuse it with a few standout hues—like raspberry and cobalt. The colors don’t have to play equal parts in a room; some can be accents, such as throw pillows or framed art.

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Photography by Jesse Williams

Add warmth

Layering in metallics, like brass or copper, adds a touch of warmth. Natural elements—think: woven baskets, wood finishes, linen pillows, and free-flowing greenery—also create texture and help to ground the space.

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PHOTOGRAPHY BY JESSE WILLIAMS

Read the room

Pair graphic designs with equally modern furniture. The clean lines of a Cubist-inspired chair or sofa are the perfect backdrop for maximalist fabrics to really pop.

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Photography by Jesse Williams

Be mindful of proportions

Balance delicate prints with expansive patterns as a way to artfully contrast scale. When done in a similar palette, the variety pulls the room together.

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Photography by Jesse Williams

Set your theme

Playing on variations of one motif—such as florals and botanical-inspired designs—across a space can create whimsical pairings while infusing the room with lots of personality.

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Zane Metal Benches in LeWitt Sketch in High Noon Robert Allen @ Home Photography by Jesse Williams

Start small

Still unsure of how to mix and match? A little can go a long way: Cover a stool or throw pillow for a hint of pattern that doesn’t feel like too much of a commitment. See how it interacts with other pieces in the room and layer your way up from there.  

Robert Allen

Seurat Stroke | High Noon, Robert Allen

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Robert Allen

Lewitt Sketch | High Noon, Robert Allen

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Robert Allen

Hicks Weave Bk | High Noon, Robert Allen

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Robert Allen

O'Keeffe Bloom | High Noon, Robert Allen

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Robert Allen

Schiele Arch | High Noon, Robert Allen

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Robert Allen

Asawa Block | High Noon, Robert Allen

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Kahlo Palm Bk | Golden Hour, Robert Allen

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O'keeffe Bloom | Golden Hour, Robert Allen

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Find the Edition Collection by Domino Robert Allen @ Home at Calico and calicocorners.com.

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