Introducing pattern to a space doesn’t have to be bold, bright and oversized, you can add pattern in your finishing touches and create a subtle touch of colour and print.

1. Layer up pattern

Rather than feeling too busy, layering will add depth and feel calmer – as long as all patterns all work well together. The key is mix a variety of smaller and large prints using one to set the tone, as shown here with a rug, which combined with similar themed throws ans cushions creates a tranquil and homely scheme. Top tip: Use a large-scale design as the dominant pattern, with smaller prints as accents elsewhere.

Pictured: Natural Diamond crochet throw, £12; Woven wood basket, £15; Natural Woven seagrass mirror, £30; Green Riverside Cottage print throw, £20; Blue Willow Leaf cushion, £8; Green Cord cushion, £7; Green Check throw, £20; Embroidered Shape cushion, £10, all George Home.

2. Look to your windows

Incorporating one large element of pattern at the window, such a curtains or a blind, will inject style and personality to your scheme. If you’re using both types of window treatment, why not create a juxtaposition with two fabrics in different patterns but complementary shades.

Pictured: Block Ocean Roman blind, from Hillarys from £117.

3. Break the rules

Mixing and matching tableware is a great place to start honing your pattern-combining skills and find out what works well together. From laying stripes on top of florals, checks on polka dots, or animal print on geometrics, break the traditional pattern rules and use tablecloths, runners, napkins and crockery to style a spread to be proud of.

Pictured: Vaisselle Janine dinner plate, £120 for two; Popi desert plate, £70 for two; Sweet Me salad plate, £90 for two; Buttercup butter dish, £52; Cutipol Goa gold and white cutlery, from £11, all Amara.

4. Give neutrals interest

Being brave with pattern in finishing touches doesn’t always have to mean using the boldest, brightest colours – neutral schemes can be just as impactful. Here you have pattern in the form of a striking marble splashback, teamed with hardwood flooring and panelled kitchen cabinetry. It’s subtle but it works.

Pictured: Mustard oak extra matt flooring, from £65.99 per sqm, Cascada collection at Quick-Step.

5. Statement vases

One of the easiest ways to bring a bold pop of colour to your space is with a bold statement vase. Layer up colours, stripes and patterns and let your accessories do the talking.

Pictured: 1. Elements Skara spot vase, £8 from Dunelm 2. Lennox glass vase, £39.50 from Oliver Bonas. 3. Blue and white striped vase, £7 from Primark.

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MORE WAYS WITH PATTERN 

• How to add pattern to walls and floors
• Patterned bathroom tiles: 11 inspiring looks
• Get the look: statement furniture

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