Last year, there was color drenching, and now, there's pattern drenching. Similar to its predecessor, the trend recommends covering everything (walls, ceiling, and furnishings) in a pattern. Although it's a new trend, trends tend to emerge from older ideas.
A photo of Lee Radziwill's London living room in 1966 is proof. The photo, captured by Cecil Beaton, shows Radziwill and her child perched on a Persian-style sofa, surrounded by paisley cushions, against a similar chinoiserie background.
The maximalist look is completely captivating. It's an early example of pattern-drenching, demonstrating that the look has been around for decades and shows no signs of going anywhere.
Shop the Pattern Drenched Living Room Edit
Make a statement in your living space with this beautiful, blue-and-white chintz sofa, which features elegant, gold legs and super comfortable cushions. It's a modern coastal take on the pattern-drenching look.
Go bold with a shiny, animal print pillow that is sure to add some spice to a space. It's perfect when paired with florals for an interesting mixture.
A wallpaper mural brings together all the patterns in the room. This blue and white nature design feels distinctly European, like something you could find in the Blue City of Porto.
Helen Ashmore, Head of Design for Laura Ashley, explains the interior design trend, stating: 'Bringing energy to your interiors with pattern is the perfect way to infuse any room with personality and texture. Pattern drenching does this one a bigger scale, and although it might feel like a big step, it’s easy to do once you’ve found the perfect print to anchor your scheme around.'
If you hope to recreate Lee's maximalist living room idea, begin by brainstorming your favorite pattern that you love enough to see on multiple surfaces. Then, consider how to integrate even more.
Helen advises: 'The art of layering is key to perfecting the look, so start with your chosen print on walls and even the ceiling. You should then introduce a secondary print, either in a contrasting scale, geometric pattern, or coordinating stripe for added depth and impact.'
Creating balance is essential for ensuring that a pattern-drenched room does not become overwhelming to the eye.
'To keep the balance and create a harmonious design, using a cohesive palette of shades and tones will bring the scheme together,' Helen recommends. 'Aim for tonal pairings, and ensure the neutral base is reflected across each print and pattern you select to prevent overwhelming the space.'
Combining patterns has been and always will be a statement, and oftentimes, it's the right one. Looking to the past is one of the best ways to source inspiration. Often, you'll even rediscover the latest trends.
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