By now, design lovers know all about color drenching, or the liberal use of a single paint color throughout an entire room, including the walls, ceilings, trim, and doors. This seamless paint application offers a creative way to play with color, and results in cozy, saturated spaces that stand the test of time.
And now, we’d like to introduce you to color drenching’s maximalist cousin: pattern drenching. Like color drenching, this design trend entails coating a room in multiple prints and patterns, from upholstery and textiles to wallpaper, window treatments, and bedding.

The result is a space that’s artful, personality-packed, and eye-catching in the best way. While the pros often pattern-drench using a single pattern in various formats, you can also play with a mix of patterns to create a dynamic, eye-catching design.
“Pattern drenching has roots in the 1970s and is maximalism at its peak,” says Havenly Director of Design & Content Heather Goerzen, who designed the above bedroom in her Denver home. “It’s a shortcut to a personalized, completely unique space that no one else can replicate, and as a designer, I’m thrilled to witness its comeback.”
While we encourage everyone to try pattern drenching, it does require a little design know-how. Ahead, Heather shares her pro tips for pulling off pattern drenching in your space.
1. Select two (or more!) matching elements

If you really want to go all-in on the look, start by matching two or more design elements in a single space. For example, the curtains and wallpaper boast the same lattice pattern from St. Frank in the above bedroom, while the headboard, rug, and bedding add contrast and round out the design.
2. Mix in grounding solids

To make this look sing, grounding solids are just as important as the patterns themselves. Always mix in at least one or two complementary solids in a space to counteract pattern-on-pattern and provide a healthy dose of contrast. This allows each pattern to shine instead of competing with one another.
3. Opposites attract

When selecting the prints to layer in your space, remember one rule of thumb: opposites attract. For example, pairing a busy, romantic floral with a classic, understated stripe adds contrast and allows each to have a distinct identity. This will ensure that the space feels balanced instead of overwhelming.
4. Pair subtle with stand-out

If you’re new to pattern drenching, try selecting one “hero” pattern, and adding in a subtle, more understated pattern in a complementary color. In the above bedroom, for example, the floral curtains steal the show, while the soft patterned bedding contributes to the maximalist look without competing.
5. Stick to a color palette

At the end of the day, a distinct color palette is what makes pattern drenching possible. Without it, you’d have nothing to tie the design together and make the space look cohesive. Consider your color palette from beginning to end, from selecting your primary patterns and solids at the start, to adding the finishing touches, like throw pillows and bedding.
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