The Interior Design Reference & Specification Book

12

Job:02-30056 Title: RP-Interior Design Reference and Specification

#175 Dtp:216 Page:200

(RAY)

200-211_30056.indd 200 3/4/13 7:47 PM

20 0

THE INTERIOR DESIGN REFERENCE + SPECIFICATION BOOK

Text

Chapter 12: Pattern

A pattern is a repetition of elements, typically laid in a grid. Patterns give visual

interest to the surfaces of a room, whether in a textile, wall covering, or ooring.

Although they are commonly associated with textiles, patterns can also be found

in such textural elements as a brick wall. The repetitive elements create balance

and order across surfaces, pleasing the eye, and a skilled interior designer can use

patterns to establish a desired mood. Patterns can be employed in small quantities

to highlight special features in a room or can cover every surface to blend all the

elements together. Although there are no set rules for applying patterns, it is impor-

tant to understand the effects of patterned surfaces on an interior.

EFFECTS OF PATTERNS

Patterned surfaces can alter the proportional readings of a space. Large-scale repeats with

complex patterns and contrasting colors can be appealing in a large room but can overwhelm

a small one. Complex patterns are best left for fabrics or oor surfaces and should be care-

fully considered for wall coverings.

Patterns with vertical lines can add height to a room with low ceilings. Curtains with vertical

lines that extend from oor to ceiling will make a room look taller. Conversely, patterns with

horizontal lines can make a room or a piece of furniture look wider.

Pattern has an effect on the mood of a space. A oral pattern on a surface will create a much

different feeling than a geometric pattern on the same surface. Patterns are expressive of

style and sensibility and immediately set the tone for an interior environment.

Job:02-30056 Title: RP-Interior Design Reference and Specification

#175 Dtp:216 Page:200

(RAY)

200-211_30056.indd 200 3/4/13 7:48 PM

12

Job:02-30056 Title: RP-Interior Design Reference and Specification

#175 Dtp:216 Page:201

(RAY)

Job:02-30056 Title: RP-Interior Design Reference and Specification

#175 Dtp:216 Page:200

200-211_30056.indd 201 3/4/13 7:47 PM

201

Text

and order across surfaces, pleasing the eye, and a skilled interior designer can use

patterns to establish a desired mood. Patterns can be employed in small quantities

elements together. Although there are no set rules for applying patterns, it is impor

-

complex patterns and contrasting colors can be appealing in a large room but can overwhelm

Patterns with vertical lines can add height to a room with low ceilings. Curtains with vertical

lines that extend from oor to ceiling will make a room look taller. Conversely, patterns with

horizontal lines can make a room or a piece of furniture look wider.

Pattern has an effect on the mood of a space. A oral pattern on a surface will create a much

different feeling than a geometric pattern on the same surface. Patterns are expressive of

style and sensibility and immediately set the tone for an interior environment.

Job:02-30056 Title: RP-Interior Design Reference and Specification

#175 Dtp:216 Page:201

(RAY)

Job:02-30056 Title: RP-Interior Design Reference and Specification

#175 Dtp:216 Page:200

200-211_30056.indd 201 3/4/13 7:48 PM

12

Job:02-30056 Title: RP-Interior Design Reference and Specification

#175 Dtp:216 Page:202

(RAY)

200-211_30056.indd 202 3/4/13 7:47 PM

202

THE INTERIOR DESIGN REFERENCE + SPECIFICATION BOOK

Text

The scale of a pattern determines how complex or busy it will look on a surface. For instance,

a pattern with a small repeat may appear as a solid color from across the room and only be

discernible at a closer viewing.

Color plays a large role in pattern. The more contrasting colors in a pattern, the more dynamic

the pattern. If a pattern is made up of different tones of the same color, it may be quite

subtle.

Pattern can make a surface or piece of furniture more pronounced. Pattern can be used strate-

gically to drawn the eye to a particular focal point.

Job:02-30056 Title: RP-Interior Design Reference and Specification

#175 Dtp:216 Page:202

(RAY)

200-211_30056.indd 202 3/4/13 7:48 PM

12

Job:02-30056 Title: RP-Interior Design Reference and Specification

#175 Dtp:216 Page:203

Job:02-30056 Title: RP-Interior Design Reference and Specification

#175 Dtp:216 Page:202

(RAY)

200-211_30056.indd 203 3/4/13 7:47 PM

203

Pattern

Text

The scale of a pattern determines how complex or busy it will look on a surface. For instance,

Color plays a large role in pattern. The more contrasting colors in a pattern, the more dynamic

the pattern. If a pattern is made up of different tones of the same color, it may be quite

subtle.

Texture, too, plays a role in pattern making.

A weave on a monochromatic textile can

create a pattern that adds interest to an

otherwise plain fabric.

Pattern can make a surface or piece of furniture more pronounced. Pattern can be used strate-

Job:02-30056 Title: RP-Interior Design Reference and Specification

#175 Dtp:216 Page:203

Job:02-30056 Title: RP-Interior Design Reference and Specification

#175 Dtp:216 Page:202

(RAY)

200-211_30056.indd 203 3/4/13 7:48 PM