Designing a new space can be a lot of work but it can also be such a fun way to create the perfect environment for you. The best part about design is that it's subjective. Something that works for you might not be what your neighbor down the street would prefer at all. The design has some rules like don’t put plaid with polka dots. Design rules shouldn’t be an obstacle for you but rather a guide on how to work with different colors, patterns, and textures properly.
If you are someone who loves mixing and matching designs and has been just looking for the sign, this is it! Of your space, we’ve put together a base guide to help you navigate the ins and outs of mix-and-match furniture and design.
We’ve put together a guide to help you navigate the art of mixing and matching. Before anything, you must first decide on a theme. This should be your first step in designing any room. If you are going to be mixing colors, patterns, and styles the next thing you’ll want to do is find a common theme between your palette and styles.
Colors:
Mixing and matching colors is one of the easier design pieces to accomplish because we can follow basic color theory. If you plan to mix patterns and styles in your space there are some things to consider about your colors. The best way to achieve a cohesive look while mixing is to limit your color palette. So if you're going to be mixing patterns you’ll want to use similar colors within them.
Now if you use color theory correctly you can still incorporate multiple colors. The easiest way to get away with multiple colors is to use the same tonal family (warm/cool). Other options include monochromatic colors, which use different shades of the same color. That will help you create contrast throughout your space because you will be able to use dark and light shades freely. You can also choose to use complementary colors which are colors that sit opposite one another on the color wheel. Those will be harder to implement if you’re also mixing patterns and styles.
If you are new to playing with color, start on a smaller scale. The easiest place to start is with paint or accessories like wall art and throw pillows.
Patterns:
When mixing patterns, using a variety is crucial but so is repetition. Repeating the same patterns throughout the room will make the space appear uniform. You should also consider mixing the size of your patterns. For example, if you have an accent wall with a pattern, compliment it with smaller surface area patterns such as throw pillows. Also, note that you can mix two patterns that would normally clash by separating them in scale. For example, using two florals is okay if one is on a large scale and the other a small. Scale is important in other ways too. Rather than having a bold pattern on a larger surface area, choose more subtle patterns for a smaller surface area in order to avoid making the space too busy. If you do choose a bold pattern, make sure to use a variety of other patterns that are more subtle. Be sure to also mix in solid colors every now and again to avoid overwhelming the room.
Another thing to be aware of when mixing and matching patterns is to be aware of prints. Animal prints can look good together but throw too many patterns with them and it looks like a jungle. If that is the look you are going for, please disregard that statement.
The other thing to keep in mind is the power of texture. Oftentimes texture can be substituted for patterns, especially when they are used as solid colors. Some textured materials do not work well together functionally like velvet and fluffy materials. Some textures don’t work for the environment, did you know that because certain textures are thicker than others it can actually make the space feel smaller or heavier than it is?
Styles:
In order to mix styles the first thing you must do is limit your color palette. It also works best if you choose neutral colors. For example, if you love the airy feel of coastal style but prefer how modern furniture looks, common ground will always be neutral colors. Note that coastal often contains blue, by using different shades you can also blend your neutral colors with.
To create a cohesive look to the room, use repetition to your advantage. If you have a coastal-style table, instead of one modern chair next to it, place two. This can also be used on smaller decor pieces.
If you don't have particular styles in mind and just enjoy playing around with design styles. Look for opposites that attract. For example, a classic style painting in a contemporary room. This adds a level of depth and intrigue to the room.
Long story short, we have a few recurring themes when it comes to mixing and matching. Using repetition of patterns, colors, and styles throughout a space will create a cohesive design. When mixing furniture or patterns you must always take into consideration the scale of the room and pattern. Always remember that design is subjective… for the most part. So what works for you may not be “right” but with this guide, we are hoping you are one step closer to becoming your own interior designer!