Guest Picks: Go Bold With Color and Pattern
Ease a neutral palette into more exciting territory with a few pieces that catch the eye and brighten a room
Prints, patterns and bright colors are certainly hot in the world of design as of late, but if you're anything like me, they are more nerve-racking than anything else. I'm someone who has become complacent with all things neutral and traditional, to the point that I avoid a bright accent pillow or geometric rug like the plague while shopping. Recently, with everything from magazine covers to blog posts displaying beautifully bold rooms doused in patterns galore, I've found myself slightly intrigued and have set out to find a few pieces that just might ease me into a brighter design dimension. — Annemarie from Brunch at Saks
Handmade Lacquer Tray
These lacquer trays by Iomoi are so cute that I can't pick which one I like best. I think they would be the perfect addition to any coffee table, desk or vanity area.
Imperial Trellis, Treillage
I've been coveting this Imperial Trellis wallpaper by Kelly Wearstler for a while now. I think it would look gorgeous in an entry or guest bathroom, or even as an accent wall in a bedroom.
Jonathan Adler Throw Blanket Nixon Navy
Add a little pizzazz to the back of your couch or the foot of your bed with this throw by Jonathan Adler. I like that it's bold enough to become a staple in any room, but it can easily be folded up and put away if your design scheme ever changes.
Bombay Bedding
I can't get over this beautiful duvet inspired by designer John Robshaw's travels to India. I love the large blue medallions; they would look great paired with yellow and white accessories throughout the room.
Albert Rug
Going bold with a rug might be just the trick to add some dimension without the fear of prints and patterns overpowering the space. I'd love to pair this rug with a neutral couch in cream or brown leather to balance the area out.
Palmer Stool, Aquamarine
Simple yet bold, this Palmer stool would make a lovely side table, or even a nightstand.
Tile Pillow Cover
Take advantage of all the punchy pillows on store shelves because they are a great way to bring some fun into your space without tying you down to a whole scheme. I love this pillow cover; it's bright, unexpected yet still inviting.
Contemporary Armchairs And Accent Chairs
This lattice-pattern upholstered chair is the perfect piece if you want to add just enough flair to any room. I love the neutral colors against the bold print.
Graphic Lidded Baskets
Add bold patterns in a more subtle way with chic decor accessories like these storage bin baskets.
Colors 19
One of the best ways to step out of the box is by adding color via artwork. This print by Cocoa and Hearts is stunning and will surely liven up any wall on which it's placed.
Ikat Turtle Cylinder Jars
Modern and chic, these ikat cylinder jars are a great way to bring graphics into unexpected places in your home. Use them as vases, pencil holders or decorations just by themselves.
Decorative Grammace Pouf, Golden Yellow/Ivory
I love this pouf ottoman from Target. I can imagine two of them side by side as a makeshift coffee table, or one on either end of the living room for extra seating. This is functional decor at its best.
Outdoor Cushion, Delray Azure EasyCare
Bring a little something jazzy to your outdoor area as well with patterned upholstery like this seat cushion.
Pagoda Rectangular Plate
I love this green and blue lattice plate from C. Wonder. It would look great on an entryway table or as a serving tray at a party.
Camden Silver Nailhead Headboard
Adding patterns in bedrooms might be tricky if your space is small, so try choosing just one piece to bring in the flair, like this ikat headboard. I love that you can dress this up with a punchy throw or keep it simple with white pillows. Either way, it adds a focal point to your space.
Modernist Bowls
What better way is there to spice up your kitchen than with these patterned bowls from West Elm? I like that they're fancy enough to serve up dishes to guests but simple enough for everyday use.
Set of 6 Vierra Dinner Napkins
These striped dinner napkins are awesome. They're bold while still neutral enough to use any time of year.
Loon Fabric Coasters
If incorporating patterns into your space is just too far from the norm, try and start with smaller accessories like these leaf-patterned fabric coasters. They'll certainly add a lot to any gathering, small or large.
Orange and Pink George Beach Towel
I like the idea of integrating patterns in unexpected places, like the bathroom. These fun towels by Jonathan Adler are just the thing to bring a normally bland space up to date.
Next: More ideas for introducing pattern at home
Next: More ideas for introducing pattern at home