Patterns and prints play an integral role in any interior design project. Often considered as something you add to a room at the end of a renovation, experts will tell you that the colours, shapes and patterns used in a space are actually decided at the outset of the design process to ensure they complement all of the other design elements.

These elements have the ability to brighten up an otherwise dull space, or change the theme of a room entirely, which makes them a powerful set of tools in any interior designer’s hands.

So, if you are about to renovate a space in your home or office, make a note of our top three patterns and how to best use them.

1. Watercolour inspired prints

The introduction of digital printing onto furnishing fabrics has proved a catalyst for an explosion of creative ideas, as the possibilities are now endless as far as design is concerned. The blend of colours found in watercolour themed designs can be combined beautifully with colour blocking. Choose either a pastel or bright palette for your space and then use the watercolour fabric to tie the look together.

We recently combined watercolour inspired prints on dining chairs with leather detailing, and scatters on a leather sofa, in a client’s installation. The result was incredible. As you’ll see in photos we’ll post in the upcoming months, the leather provides an interesting contrast and provides a blank canvas to highlight the delicate pattern. Watercolour prints are also the perfect choice for a statement side chair or scatter cushions on a plain coloured couch.

As this global trend reaches our shores, local fabric house Hertex recently launched a beautiful collection called Digiflora. We love this group of designs as it is indicative of the creative freedom you have with digital printing – incorporating previously impossible colourations and patterns.

2. Block prints and screen printing

We are in love with block prints and the various screen printed patterns available at the moment! The handmade look of the patterns creates a relaxed feeling, which can be combined with solid colours; or more structured patterns, in an eclectic interior. Block and screen printed patterns also serve as effective bridging fabrics when you are trying to tie different fabric types together.

As South African consumers, we are spoilt for choice with many talented local manufacturers and small fabric makers. Incorporating this type of fabric is a great way to support and boost this growing industry.

Our current local favourites are the screen printed customisable curtaining and upholstery fabrics from Lula Fabrics. All of their cottons and linens are milled in South Africa, and each design has a romantic, playful and artisanal flavour to it.

3. Bird motifs

Whether you prefer classic and traditional, bold and modern, or stylised décor – bird motifs are fast becoming as timeless as florals. Each design has a personality of its own, and you won’t struggle to find your match with the wide selection of prints currently available.

These work wonderfully on a statement piece of furniture amongst plain block colours, and can even be used as a work of art or drapery in a traditional interior setting – especially if the colours are more muted.

If the style of the print is more graphic and monotone, combine it with similar monotone inspired prints to add a quirky element to your space.

Local design house Stuart Graham recently launched their beautiful Country House selection. In addition to the gorgeous bird prints, this range boasts a sophisticated mix of elegant floral prints, subtle stripes and timeless damasks – all teamed with tactile embroideries evoking vintage hand-worked lace. We simply love this classic collection.

We hope that these exciting design trends have inspired you, and sparked some creative thinking about your next renovation. Why not give us a call and we can help you on your way to creating a space that embraces colour, celebrates pattern and oozes style.