How to Mix Patterns and Textures Like a Pro

"You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take."— Wayne Gretzky

A room decorated with only solid colors and smooth surfaces can feel flat and uninspired. The secret to creating a space that feels rich, dynamic, and professionally designed is the artful mixing of patterns and textures. This layering adds depth, warmth, and personality to any interior design scheme.

When mixing patterns, it’s helpful to follow a few simple rules to avoid a chaotic look. A good strategy is to combine patterns of different scales. For example, pair a large-scale pattern (like a bold floral on a curtain) with a medium-scale pattern (like a geometric on a rug) and a small-scale pattern (like a subtle stripe on a throw pillow). To ensure the mix feels cohesive, stick to a unified color palette. Choose two or three core colors and make sure they appear in each of the patterns. This common thread will tie the different elements together harmoniously.

Texture is just as important as pattern. It refers to the tactile quality of a surface. Mixing a variety of textures makes a room more interesting to both the eye and the touch. Combine rough textures with smooth ones, and soft textures with hard ones. For instance, you could pair a smooth leather sofa with a chunky knit wool blanket, a plush velvet pillow, and a rough-hewn wooden coffee table. This contrast creates a rich, layered look that makes a space feel cozy and inviting.