Layering Patterns in Modern Homes
the esd journal
Patterns are often an intimidating aspect of interior design for many homeowners. Designers, however, love the challenge of mixing and matching patterns throughout homes, creating that harmonious flow from room to room through interesting and eclectic aesthetics. When we approach patterns, best practice says that layering achieves the ideal coordination between motifs, colors, and texture.
Layering patterns creates depth, vibrancy, and intrigue, pulling you and guests into the experience of the space. Though they can be intimidating, we recommend facing that fear and layering multiple patterns into your modern home design composition. because layers are an artistic infusion of personality and build stratums of interest.
Four Ways to Layer Patterns
The danger of layering patterns is the pitfall of doing too much. This is an area of design where you must scale back and think of the big picture of the home or commercial space, even if you’re just designing one room. There are four primary ways to layer patterns that are good places to start.
Rugs & Bedspreads in Bedrooms. Rugs are great neutral ground, but they can be fantastic for bringing patterns into any room. Choose a bedspread or blanket with a pattern and the two will work together to create those layers in a noticeable way without being overwhelming.
Tiles and Wallpaper. Tile patterns can be incredibly subtle—especially if you use subway tile or monochromatic tile of any kind. But the pattern still has impact and when combined with wallpaper with a floral or geometric pattern, the two work together to get those layers from floor to ceiling.
Smaller Details. The easiest way to incorporate more patterns without dominating the room is through throw pillows, blankets, and art. A few throw pillows with contrasting and complementing patterns and color palettes can offset plainer surfaces while wall art brings in that extra layer.
Upholstery. Whether each piece has a different pattern or all the same, use upholstery as the primary pattern while pairing them with more subtle patterns in rugs, wood elements, art, and wallpapers.
Photo: Jonny Valiant
Photo: Richard Powers
“The key is to vary the scale—combine larger, statement patterns with smaller, quieter ones for a cohesive look.” - Nina Lichtenstein for Homes and Gardens.
Additionally, it’s helpful to have a common thread connecting the patterns. This could be a color palette, a theme of florals or Art Deco, geometric shapes, stripes, etc. Tie it all together through art and other decor, hardware, and furniture styles, and hint at these patterns in connecting rooms as well.
ESD Projects with Layered Patterns
Most of our projects have layered patterns, though some are more subtle than others. The below are examples of the bolder displays of layered patterns in modern homes.
Fox Hall
Our Fox Hall project was probably one of our most unique spaces to work within. Capturing a rustic vibe reminiscent of cabins and mixing it with some refined and contemporary elements, this home was layered in so many ways beyond patterns.
Photo: Jonny Valiant
Madison Square
The Madison Square project was elegant in so many ways. Glass chandeliers and a calming, creamy color palette made this one of our most refreshing projects.
Photo: Jonny Valiant
Park Ave.
This project was given to us from return clients and they let us have near-complete freedom with this revival. We were dealing with an old, stately home and the clients’ love for color.
Photo: Joshua McHugh
Photo: Joshua McHugh
Stone Ridge
This sustainable home needed to masterfully blend the architectural details and construction of a more-than 300-year-old building with Mid-Century furnishings and lighting. The patterns that show up in these rooms are bold, but minimal, becoming accents among a more muted color palette.
Photo: Photo: Jonny Valiant
Photo: Jonny Valiant
Designing Modern Homes
Patterns elevate interior design aesthetics by infusing dynamics, color, and depth. Blending them requires a bit of an artistic eye, but mostly the understanding of how to layer them without immediately overwhelming your senses or creating a cluttered feel. As a designer in New York City, I know the value of using patterns to not only get that depth, but pay homage to architectural styles and the history of the townhomes and other houses we work in.
If you need help layering patterns and transforming your home, connect with ESD!
Top Photo Credits:
Interior Designer: Elaine Santos
Architects: @barliswedlick
Contractor: @M.C.GEROSA, LLC Construction