Pattern drenching. Maximalists, you will love this!

Harriet Sale

Well, we made it to the end of February! BUUUT, just when I though Spring was coming, its -1 in the UK this morning!

No matter, I am still powering through, and these pattern drenched spaces are a joy to behold.

Pattern drenching is a bold approach to interior styling. It is the technique of using pattern across walls, furnishings and sometimes accessories too. This creates a dramatic, layered statement.

Successful pattern drenching is about balance and harmony. It’s important to think about balancing scale and colour so that the overall look is cohesive.

Here are my pointers if you are interested in pattern drenching your space.

  1. Make sureyou have a colour palette in mind before you begin.

  2. Choose 2 or 3 key patterns and and keep to the same colour palette or one colour that runs throught.

  3. Balanace is important. If you are drenching everythng, use a larger print on the walls and a smaler one on furniture and accessories.

  4. Think about the scale of your patterns. Large scale patterns work well in most rooms but check the lighting as this can affect the look of your finished space.

  5. Don’t forget to use plain colours and textures in certain areas or on furniture to prevent your space from looking too overwhelming.

    The space above by Harriet Sale is a lovely use of pattern with a larger print on the walls, a ditsy print on the dressing table and striped lampshades. The rattan chair grounds the space as it is plain but textured.


Matthew Williamson

Here the guru of pattern, Matthew Williamson, has a large print on the wallpaper, a smaller scale pattern om the side-board and has introduced an animal print with the sofa. The colour palette is predominantly blue and it looks amazing!

Lulu and Georgia

Decorating a space with stripes is a little more harmonious and gives a sense of order. This is a lovely example by Lulu and Georgia.

If you want to give pattern drenching a go, my advice would be to start small, maybe in the powder room or a small space in your house but enjoy putting your personal stamp on your space!

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An ode to Parker Knoll