Pattern and Repetition make up the forth
and fifth principles of design that we can apply to the look and layout of our
homes. Because they go hand-in-hand,
we’ll cover them together. Pattern “is the
repeating of an object or symbol all over,” while repetition “works with pattern to make the artwork seem active. The repetition of elements of design creates
unity.”
A
little secret: these two design principles can be pretty easy to pull off,
because they can come home with you rather ready-made. Consider some fresh ways to integrate a
little pattern and repetition into the rooms of your home. An Oriental rug is traditional, but you can
take a 5’x7’ floor space and kick it up a notch by rolling out a chevron,
zebra, lattice, houndstooth, or paisley printed rug instead. The repeating pattern of each can make an art
statement all by itself. Pick up a
similar or complimentary pattern in a fabric selection in your seating, lamp
shades, and wall art to create that activity element and repeat a pattern in
another spot in the room.
Wallpaper
is the time-honored use of pattern and repetition. Except now, it is used as more of a bold focal
point than a muted backdrop to a room. Wallpaper in stripes, a lattice pattern, or a
repeating geometric print can accent a hall bathroom, dining room, entryway, or
one standout wall behind a headboard in a bedroom. Repetition can also play out on your walls in
the way you hang mirrors with unique borders or a series of similarly framed
pictures or even swatches of fabric or sheets of printed paper. It is the collection and arrangement of
simple items that make them a unified work of art that brings a liveliness into
a space.
Take
simple items that display patterns and prints that you like, and put them
together to create attractive displays in your home. It can be as easy as selecting a new rug, some
pillows or drapery panels, a lamp shade, blanket, or framed pieces. Take it a step further by adding in a weekend
DIY project, like hanging some wallpaper or making your own custom art. Ultimately, if you’re looking for a fuss-free
way to incorporate more design into your rooms, playing on pattern and repetition
is a no-sweat, high-reward route to take that plays on and on.
Happy
Mother’s Day!
Next week: Proportion
DesignInMind column; appeared in the Valley Morning Star May 13th.
