Using Patterns In Small Rooms: A Guide

For those of us who aren’t blessed with a large house or a mortgage to match, sometimes small rooms can come with a unique set of problems. Buying furniture to fit the size of the property and maximising space where possible are all issues anyone with small rooms will have experienced. Many homeowners live by the logic that small rooms should be simple, but by adding patterns, you can still add depth without completely overwhelming the space. 

Natural textures

If you’re worried about using patterns that are too bold but would still like to add vibrancy and an eye-catching feature wall, then natural texture can help add a muted effect. By mimicking the natural world, you can still achieve the effect of a patterned floor or wall, but in a way that mimics the natural world. The Metro Marble Effect has a delicate natural pattern that will add texture to a small room without overwhelming it with a bold pattern. 

Simple shapes

Using simple shapes or small patterns can help add complexity without creating a look that’s too busy. For example, the Winnie Patchwork tile has a simple overlapping pattern that while small, will create a beautiful interlocking pattern on any wall. The white background colour will also help to open up the space. When big patterns feel too loud, try to think on the smaller side of the scale. 

Flooring

For some, adding patterns to the walls would feel too bold. However, this doesn’t mean you should end your search for a pattern that feels right in your home. By adding patterns to the floor, you create a deliberate design feature that can be seen but can still manage to be subtle. For those who are tempted to play it safe and paint everything in pale or light shades, a bold floor pattern can allow you to have some fun. 

Compliment features

One way to add patterns to a room and not have them feel too bold or brash is to match them to particular focal points. For example, if you have a red sofa or a black set of bookshelves, then using a pattern that features those colours will create a look that is both deliberate and stylish. 

Black and white

Using a monochrome scale can help you to get away with incredibly complex patterns, without making the room feel too busy. The Victoria Feature Tiles create an old-time elegance that comes in part from the pattern and also the simplicity of the colours. By using neutral and cool colours elsewhere in the room, you will allow the pattern to speak for itself without it feeling too intrusive.  

A small room shouldn’t prevent you from having fun or experimenting. Rather, it should be an excuse to get creative with your use of space and design. Using tiles allows you to implement small patterns and sophisticated textures that will add to your small room without impinging on the feel of the size of the room.