Fabrics -- whether patterned or solid -- allow you to express your personality. But how do you decide when to use a pattern or when not to?
Room size
“Dark, solid fabrics tend to make a room look smaller,” says New York-based interior designer Jane Abercrombie. “But that’s not necessarily a bad thing. Dark, textured upholstered furniture against a dark paint with fresh white trim can create a very intimate setting. A light-coloured room with lighter-colored fabric makes the same room look larger and brighter.”
Fabric rules
Velvet: only use solids or very light patterns
Silk: solids look more beautiful than patterns
Linen: solids or patterns
Cotton: solids or patterns
Furniture
Patterns are best on smaller pieces: chair seats, stools/benches and pillows, says Abercrombie. A small piece of patterned fabric can add a lot of punch and character. It’s really amazing what a difference a pair of patterned pillows can make. Solids are best on sofas. The only pattern should be a very subtle pattern or texture.
Room style
In comtemporary rooms, aim to use mostly solids or very quiet patterns. Choose a solid fabric with texture to give the room subtle nuances while allowing the art, furniture, and architecture speak louder than the fabric.
Accenting with patterns
If you already have a solid-fabric couch, use at least two different patterned fabrics -- use each fabric for a pair of pillows.