TRICKS WITH TEXTURES • Create visual continuity by linking interconnecting rooms with the same carpeting or by repeating a fabric. • Break up large areas into more intimate areas by using textured hangings, drapes, and rugs. • Create contrasts by interspersing textures and patterns with areas of plain, smooth colour. Above Texture and pattern dominate in this child’s bedroom, giving-an enclosed and comforting, yet visually sti’1rulatillg, effect. Oppositrop The pattern of a ii7~d>f~, ouerlaid with a lJ1’ightly patterned mg. anchors interest firmlypt ground level in this lofty bedroom. Opposite bottom Visual continuity has been assured here through the use of repeated colour= the ~, lie, and purple of the walls. ceiling. and furniture ec dill the patterning of the mgs and bedspread, Left When small areas only o/Pat-tem are used they immediately become a focal point for “;i’;>OOJ1l.
Focal patterns f the room you are decorating has a special feature you might like to emphasize it and treat it as a focal point. The most obvious focal points are fireplaces, large bay windows and unusual recesses. Any of these could be accentuated by applying pattern to the surface. For example, to highlight a fireplace, use a wallcovering in a warm-toned complementary style, or turn an alcove or wall into a focal point with a splash of colourful pattern; offset these by keeping the adjacent walls plain. You could enhance a bay window with richly patterned floor-to-ceiling curtains. The opposite can also work successfully. For example, you could decorate most of the room in subtle patterns, leaving an expanse of plain colour in a featured alcove, as a backdrop to shelves of attractive ornaments or a display of framed pictures. In general, select smaller and more subtle patterns for small areas; larger, bolder patterns work better in more spacious areas. Strong patterns tend to dominate and should be used thoughtfully. In a narrow room, horizontal stripes make the space look wider. Regular geometric patterns are more static and formal, while repetitive floral patterns give a sense of movement and flow. n o r- o c: ~
PLANNING • Warm, rich colours and hard, shiny surfaces appear to come toward you. Cool colours and soft, matt textures give the appearance of receding more into the background. Bear this in mind when you want to alter the apparent size of a room . • Draw a sketch of the room and indicate areas of contrasting colour, texture, and pattern. When selecting a focal point, keep in mind a balance of activity in order to avoid making one area busy with pattern and colour and another area relatively quiet and plain. • Above This extremely white bath is set in a bathroom which is dominated by pastel colours.