Geometric patterns feature widely in home design for a variety of reasons. One is that they can easily enhance the visual appeal of a home by creating naturally and interesting focal points for the eye. Another reason is that geometric patterns can easily be used to create a sense of flow throughout a home, for example when recurring geometric motifs tie various rooms together. There’s also the functional appeal of geometric patterns, seeing as they can be used to define or separate areas without any need for other physical dividers.
That being said, how does one strike a proper balance when incorporating geometric patterns into their home? Too many patterns can risk making a space feel too cluttered, while too few can make the shapes look out of place.
To that end, here are some tricks and tips from DROOL Art to help you bring out the full potential of geometric designs:
1) Use Geometric Patterns on a Single Wall
Geometric patterns that are used in moderation can more effectively stand out compared to repeated use of a design in every corner of your home. One trick you can follow when using geometric patterns in your home is to restrict their use to a single wall. The said wall could be a gallery wall featuring various geometric prints, a place to hang travel photos or art prints in neon picture frames of different sizes, or simply a surface adorned with wallpaper featuring geometric shapes. The key here is to build a wall that can be a statement backdrop while keeping the other walls in the room simple enough for the former to stand out.
2) Combine Colours and Patterns
You’ll also find that geometric patterns work best when matched with colour schemes that complement them. This could largely depend on what vibe you want a room to have.
For example, if you’re designing a kid’s playroom, then you’ll want to evoke a sense of fun and excitement to anyone entering the room. To do so, you may use triangle patterns as triangles give off a sense of movement. Partner your chosen shapes with vibrant shades such as yellow or orange to impart the room with an energetic atmosphere.
3) Layer Different Patterns in Moderation
Don’t feel restricted to just using one pattern for each room. It’s also possible to combine different patterns, so long as they don’t clash. Pair smaller geometric patterns with larger ones, for example, to achieve a more dynamic visual without making the output look cluttered.
Colours can also tie together different shapes. A rug with circular patterns, for example, can still work well with a square coffee table so long as they share similar colours.
Essentially, it will be your task to balance the complexity of having multiple geometric shapes and the simplicity of having similar themes between them. This will allow you and your visitors to avoid visual fatigue.
4) Play with Scale and Texture
Playing with different geometric sizes can also help you arrive at a more visually appealing home design. One way to do so is to use scale for defining different spaces in your home. You can use large, bold geometric prints in your living room to give it a more carefree look, for instance. Meanwhile, your dining room can feature smaller, more intricate patterns to give it a more intimate atmosphere. This way, not only will you be able to evoke different moods in the two rooms; you’ll also be able to use the patterns to differentiate one’s function from the other.
Textures can also be used to bring depth and interest to geometric patterns. For instance, textured fabrics on furniture already create an interesting tactile experience, so adding geometric patterns—think diamond shapes on a velvet couch, seeing as the shape represents elegance—can further enhance the visual appeal of the fixture.
5) Balance Symmetry and Asymmetry
While symmetrical patterns can look very pleasing to the eyes, there's also a unique visual impact that only asymmetrical geometric patterns can deliver. Learn how to make use of both, depending on which space in your home you’re decorating and what atmosphere you want to achieve.
Since symmetrical patterns typically evoke a sense of order and calm, you can use them in your home office or in the bathroom to give off a serene vibe. Meanwhile, for spaces that invite much activity—such as your living room or entertainment room—asymmetrical patterns can give the space a more dynamic and vibrant look.
6) Use Lighting to Highlight Patterns
Choosing the right lighting can also be key in making geometric patterns stand out. Wall sconces, pendant lights, or floor lamps can all create shadows that highlight geometric wallpaper patterns or textured surfaces.
Even your lighting can be a geometric statement piece in itself. Go for unique lighting fixtures such as hexagon pendant lights or exposed bulb lamps with geometric wire framing to enhance the overall design of the room.
When used thoughtfully, geometric patterns can certainly liven up any home, introducing interesting elements to a space that can be visually appealing and functional at the same time. Try these tips from DROOL Art to work geometric patterns into your home design projects, such as choosing artworks for your walls, and to successfully feature visual elements like interesting lines and curves throughout your space.
