From stripes to chequerboard tiles, pretty floral patterns to classic herringbone floors – here are the definite dos when incorporating pattern in your kitchen
Main Image; @velvetart7_
The trick to using pattern? Less is more. If your kitchen walls and cabinetry are plain and neutral then using some astutely chosen pattern in your space will complement the overall scheme. Pattern can liven up your space in a major way, depending on the pattern, it can make the space seem bigger and most importantly, it will add personality, charm and life to your kitchen.?The most common use of patterned tiles is on the splashback. Other great ways to incorporate pattern? With flooring, a rug or wallpaper. Scroll for pattern inspiration …
Image; ‘Life is a Banquet Stripe’ Wallpaper by Lingua Franca – Peach and Rust www.wallshoppe.com
IN-STYLE STRIPES
Stripes are a definite do when it comes to introducing pattern in your kitchen. Luxury interiors expert and co-founder of OKA, Sue Jones, has been using stripes successfully for years. They make the space feel bigger,?she says. “Stripes can help to create the illusion of a larger space. The pattern naturally draws the eye and gives the impression of an object or room appearing taller, wider or longer.”
Choose stripes that don’t date, she advises.?Although stripes are a timeless pattern, you need to pay careful consideration to the types of stripes and the colours you use – to make sure they age well. “If you’re looking to create a classic aesthetic that won’t date, stick to either muted, neutral palettes or traditional bold colours, like reds, greens, whites and blues. These colours stand the test of time and will remain stylish.”
Use neutral colours?If you tend to play it safe with your interior aesthetic and have chosen a neutral colour palette, stripes are a good option for jazzing it up a little.?Jones shares: “Neutral spaces are by no means a bad thing, but sometimes you may decide that you want to refresh the aesthetic or add something new to the room that adds a little more vibrancy. For this purpose, stripes work very well.”
Don’t let stripes take over?As versatile as stripes are, avoid overdoing them in a single space.?“Be selective in where you use stripes and make sure you’re not letting the pattern carry over from the walls to multiple pieces of furniture. Be consistent with your choice of stripes. Consider sticking to either horizontal or vertical stripes and avoid combining the two. You should also choose a single colour palette for to avoid a jarring aesthetic.” www.oka.com
PATTERN BLOCKS
You may not think it, but two contrasting patterns can balance each other out in a charming way. In this kitchen, the splashback of organic-patterned tiles, and the floor, which features a geometric play on chequerboard tiles, create a harmony of pattern and fun. Importantly, each has a green element, which is echoed in the green cabinetry.? @velvetart7_
A PATTERN PARTY
This kitchen demonstrates that multiple patterns incorporated in the same space can make it a feast for the eyes. Incorporating a geometric pattern on a wooden insert in the centre of the main cabinetry centres the room. Including stripes on the wall above the sideboard makes the room look bigger by creating an illusion of a deeper space on top of the sideboard. www.themodernhouse.com
FLORAL EXHIBITION
In this long, narrow kitchen, the punchy chequerboard tiles on the floor, paired with the busy organic shapes in the floral wallpaper, create a very happy pattern balance. The combination of the two patterns adds life to the room and makes it seem bigger. The homeowner was replacing her 40-year-old kitchen and wanted to be bold with colour and pattern – while maintaining a traditional feel. An art lover, keen knitter and baker, her creativity is reflected in her kitchen. www.pluck.co.uk
CHEQUERBOARD SPLASHBACK
This kitchen is the vision of very creative homeowner, novelist Huma Qureshi, author of the acclaimed?Things We Do Not Tell The People We Love?who worked with Astrain Scheldt Architects to renovate her 1960s family home. The clever use of baby pink chequerboard tiles adds depth to the kitchen and keeps the overall aesthetic light and fun. The terrazzo floor, arched doorways, tiles and colours make this kitchen feel like a holiday.www.pluck.co.uk
PATTERNED FLOORING
A herringbone floor is a great way to incorporate subtle, classic pattern into your kitchen. In this ultra-modern kitchen with Siemens appliances, an elegant, engineered hardwood herringbone floor is the only nod to pattern, and it works beautifully to offset the clean lines of the cabinets and appliances. www.siemens-home.bsh-group.com
TC Matthews, experts in flooring, can also help you get the herringbone flooring you desire. Book a consultation here www.tcmatthews.ie or visit their store at 20 Lower Kilmacud Road, Dublin?.
BEST FOOT FORWARD
Add unique charm to your kitchen with a cosy patterned rug underfoot. This vintage rug in a seaside house enhances the home’s individuality and warmth.?A rug can say a lot about you – choose wisely!www.lonny.com
We have collated the top 27 kitchen design companies and appliance manufacturers, all featured in The Gloss, The Gloss Interiors and on thegloss.ie. In this list you will find the people to help you design your dream kitchen and bring your space to life – whatever style that may be. Save THE GLOSS Kitchen Design Directory to refer to for your next kitchen project – be it a renovation or refresh.
