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Outdated pattern trends that will date your home…
Here are some patterns to avoid if you want your scheme to stay fresh and updated...
As in fashion and food, interiors have their trends too. Things fall out of fashion, popular styles become antiquated, and color schemes start feeling tired. Patterns become dated. As you consider listing your home and getting it ready for market, some of these patterns could use an update to stay relevant to your new buyers. Here we are talking about patterns and colors only- cheaper to refresh and update as opposed to kitchen and baths. That is an entirely different update.
Of course, generally, to update those more costly investments there are trends that can make these rooms feel more updated too- perhaps a grass wallcovering in the bathroom- or eliminating the valences over the sink in the kitchen. Also changing out the overhead lighting fixtures brings a whole new updated feeling to your rooms.
If you are using patterns in a small way with your accessories, it is easy and relatively cheap to refresh your scheme when something falls out of favor. But when it comes to investing in bigger pieces like a patterned sofa for your living room, or new drapes – it is a good idea to be aware of what's timeless and classic that will have a longer life in your decorating scheme.
To find out which patterns we should be avoiding right now, (we can only think of things currently) and which interior design trends are passé – here are a few updates to consider…
PATTERNS that tend to DATE YOUR HOME
There is a fine line between patterns that are timeless and patterns that date your home.
Patterns that tend to date a home are ever-changing and will never be one specific pattern or color trend. They are typically those that tend to be trending one moment and so including them in a current remodel seems like the right thing to do – only to then realize three to five years down the line that you are tired of looking at that pattern.
Then there is the fact that mixing patterns can add an immediate contemporary edge to a scheme. In general, when using patterns, I think it’s important to think outside of the box and bring joy to the process – mix them (be sensitive to their scale), be open to using ones that you never thought you’d like, and see where different color combinations appeal. It also helps to approach selecting a pattern by trying different color swatches or by following articles and blogs that give this sort of advice. Here are just some areas that show old-fashioned or outdated trends-
FLORALS
I am not talking about doing away with florals altogether, they can be quite beautiful, but perhaps move away from certain types of print that feel a little tired. or over-using them. Sometimes editing, or reducing the amount of coverage using a floral, and simply adding a vase of real flowers can make the scheme more updated.
What to use instead: pattern on pattern.
The good news is you can keep your beloved florals – just introduce another pattern into the mix for a cool contrast. Try “pattern mixing.” Try moving away from rooms that are all floral and have more of a mix of solids with a grounding two-toned geometric. Geometrics can naturally offset the softness of a floral. Use stripes – they are a great way to balance a more whimsical pattern. Florals are the number one patterns that go with strips. Go ahead and experiment!
TRELLIS AND LATTICE
Trellis and lattice patterns are personally one of my favs, and are particularly popular as an outdoor furniture trend – but not so much, now. Update-
What to use instead: texture.
Part of the appeal of a trellis pattern is its intricacy – but we can show other ways of creating this kind of interest in a scheme. Adding visual interest without patterns can be achieved through textures. ‘Experiment with textured fabrics or incorporate accessories with unique textures, such as a woven basket or metal sculpture. Bright, solid colors by Sunbrella will seem fresh and inviting, as well. Recently on my tour of Mansion in May last month, in Mendham, the designer featured a color scheme of teal and tangerine: shades of a Sierra Sunset- with a large turquoise ceramic dish featuring bright golden-orange carps floating in a pool of water. Spectacular! Adding this one fun element can make all the difference!
There has been a movement toward utilizing thicker and heavier textures such as a boucle or a weave. This will allow you to add color without committing to one specific bold color.
TROPICAL PRINTS
Tropical prints were everywhere just a few years ago – The patterns that date your home are ones that follow trends, and not because they work contextually in a space. Banana leaf print is his example. oftentimes they don’t feel like they really belong there. With an oceanfront home in Palm Beach, they could be relevant, but not especially in a suburban home in New Jersey that could be described as “Colonial”.
What to use instead: organic patterns and prints.
If you love tropical prints, you might enjoy a bold interior scheme. If so, look to abstract patterns to create a similar feeling, or employ organic, nature-inspired prints – grass cloth, linens, bamboo striates, or embossing.
If your taste is more minimalist, look to the more subtle side outdoors. Use patterns found in nature – for example, hides or marble veining, weathered woods, or distressed metals. This is especially important when working in large rooms where a fussy fabric pattern will feel out of proportion. (Ceiling timber beams will also bring the outside indoors.)
CHEVRON
Although it's still a widely used pattern, the uniformity of chevron can feel a little out of date – ‘Chevron patterns (in fabrics) might seem a little dated-
What to use instead: Herringbone
As far as enduring patterns go, herringbone is up there – and its subtlety makes it an easy swap for chevron. Herringbone is a much better choice, currently, 'It’s the epitome of “old school is the new black – and a far more timeless pattern than chevron”, (so says many decorators- however, I feel this just depends!)
PLAID
Now here is where I can make a statement: Plaid is another timeless design that might make a space feel dated. We need to rethink how we use it. Experiment with plaid in unconventional ways, such as on a headboard or decorative cushions to see how much is enough of this timeless classic. (There are “plaids” and then there are “plaids!)
What to use instead: a twist on checks.
Bold checkerboard patterns have been very popular over the last couple of years – and checks in all their forms can be a great alternative to plaid. Try a line-drawn check pattern, or opt for something in a more subtle rug.
Alternatively, inject freshness into a check by adding a twist. ‘Take a super classic pattern like checks and opt for an unexpected color like bright grass green. This color change is guaranteed to feel fresh and will withstand future trends by standing on its primary “outdoorsy” feel.
Go ahead and experiment with your fabrics- They can easily be removed and changed easier than your furniture, cabinets, baths, or windows!
Still have questions? Call me- I would love to share and help!
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