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Mismatched Interior Design: What Makes it Work?

A bed with patterned pillows and a red and white patterned quilt

Mismatching your interior design may be a scary idea at first, but after learning a few quick tips your house can have a fresh new aesthetic. To be able to have an aesthetically pleasing mismatched interior design, you have to consider two big factors: colors and patterns. When both of these elements are used together they create a unique look for your space.

Patterns can be tricky to place next to one another, but if you use some strategies when deciding which patterns to select, they will create a cohesive look overall. The best way to make the placement of multiple patterns purposeful and not random is to stick to similar patterns. For example, putting a piece with thin stripes next to a piece with large polka dots may clash. Instead, try picking a theme for the patterns you select. A variety of different lined patterns may look nice together. Circles and dots are another example of patterns that would go well together. Floral patterns will best complement other floral patterns. The key to mismatched patterns is to pick different patterns that do not contrast too much, but are instead similar to one another.

Colors are a key element to your interior design projects. The easiest way to make your mismatched decor work is to stick to one color family. This will create some contrast between your pieces, but not too much that it will look unintentionally messy. An example of using one color family is to use a wide range of blue tones. This could include a bright royal blue, a dark navy, a grey with a blue undertone, a pastel blue and all of the shades in between. There is a contrast between each shade of blue, so even though they are all inspired by a single color, they are all different from one another. This makes using patterns a much easier task, as they will all go together a bit more since they have the same undertones. 

Now that you know what elements to consider while selecting items from your mismatched interior design, you have to select the best pieces. The ideal place to start the selection is with your larger furniture pieces. This would include things such as couches and chairs. Next would be pillows and curtains. A great way to make sure your curtains match is to consider investing in a custom window treatment. This will allow you to personalize the fabric and design of your curtains or blinds. Pillows are an easy way to add more bold colors and patterns since they are easy to find and change out for different occasions. Artwork on the walls is another way to add interest to the room. 

You don’t have to put your style into a box to make it work. Mismatched design might be an intimidating concept, but it is a fun and unique way to spice up your home’s interior. Start letting your creative side out and do something different or unique. You might end up with the finished product of your dreams. If you think you might want some help creating the perfect aesthetic that works for you and your space, Carmen’s Custom Window Treatments would be happy to help. Contact us today for a design consultation.