Quick Guide to Mixing Patterns with Confidence

Mixing patterns in a room can feel intimidating. But when done thoughtfully, it adds depth, personality, and a sense of hand-crafted style. The secret? Variety in scale, cohesion in color, and restraint in number.

Choose one large-scale pattern (like a bold stripe or oversized floral), and one or two smaller-scale patterns (a small geometric or subtle motif). Make sure they share at least one common color to tie them together harmoniously. For instance, a navy-and-white stripe paired with a small navy floral works beautifully.

Limit the total number of pattern styles, and anchor the room with solid colors or neutral backgrounds (on walls, rugs, or large furniture) to avoid overwhelming the eye. Texture also helps — think woven textiles, linen pillows, or a soft wool throw — which adds subtle contrast and warmth.

With this approach, you can confidently mix patterns to create layered, rich interiors without chaos.