Each week, Mansion Global takes on a theme with elite designers from around the world working in luxury properties. This week we discuss tips for incorporating checks and tiles into your home design.
Checks and tiles are often traditional, but even contemporary rooms can benefit from a splash of geometric cross patterns. Available in every size and color, this classic is like a familiar warm sweater that goes with every outfit in your closet.
“There is something very comforting and nostalgic about a plaid or check print,” said Amy Loverink, owner and principal designer of Interior Impressions in Woodbury, Minn. “It can instantly make a space feel cozy.”
For tips on introducing checks and tiles into any room, whether traditional or modern, we asked a selection of design professionals and here’s what they recommend.
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Play with color and scale
“I would recommend starting on a small scale. I would say an accent chair is a great place to start because it adds just enough statement without being too overwhelming. But if that’s too much, throw pillows and blankets, a rug or doormat, or even A simple upholstered bench or ottoman are great ways to start.
“I love playing with color and size. Extra large cash or checks can feel abstract and add a lot of interest without being too literal. A very neutral color or subtle check print can still make a big impact without feeling too sharp.
“Colors are also a great way to make them feel fresh. Plaids are usually worked in a variety of shades, but you can find great fabrics or textiles now that are more gradient in color and gauge, giving a hint of almost rather than visually captivating it.”
“I am a big fan of mixing and matching tiles and checks, but you have to do it carefully as they can easily get stuck. If you want to mix and match, stick to the same color combination, and keep a similar scale.”
A pair of check-upholstered club chairs complement this living space with interior impressions.
Mackenzie Merrill
– Amy LeFrink, Interior Impressions in Woodbury, Minnesota
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Go minimalist in a contemporary room
‘When people think of contemporary, they often think of minimalist style. But introducing something as unexpected as a check that gives a nod to traditional design elements yet still relates to modern design can make a room more interesting.
“Bladies and checks, at the end of the day, are geometric shapes, so while they are often associated with traditional design, they inherently have a lot in common with contemporary design with sharp lines.
“There are so many tiles and checks out there, I would consider choosing a simpler option for a transitional or contemporary room. A more playful, less subtle color scheme can give a traditionally slanted room a touch.”
A patterned bedspread complements other patterns in this bedroom from Marea Clark Interiors.
Stephanie Russo
Clark C., Clark C Interiors in San Francisco
Combine with animal print or abstract fabric
“I say go for a break and use checks and cards anywhere on anything. It’s classic, modern or traditional. The options really are endless.”
“I think with checks, scale has more to do with making them feel more modern. In the case of plaids, I think it’s not about scale but more about limiting your color palette to a maximum of three colors. In a transitional setting, try mixing with an animal print or abstract.
“On the sofa, it’s all about how the fabric is positioned on the piece; meaning what dictates the repetition and how the seams will be placed. A good upholstery workroom can help you with that. I wouldn’t recommend a tufted piece or a channel piece, which can skew the pattern.”
Chandos Interiors chose a contemporary, chic wall covering for this bathroom.
Julie Sover
– Chandos Dodson Epley, Chandos Interiors in Houston
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Try pairing it with stripes, solids, and florals
“We believe in using plaids and checking any smooth surface from window treatments to furniture to wallcovering. For a modern project we used a black and white plaid that served as an organizing backdrop for our clients’ Art Nouveau collection. The orthogonal pattern looked great with the abstract nature of the artwork.”
‘The source we use for our pattern is Locharron of Scotland. They make skirts and sell fabrics by the patio. We think their wide color variety allows a great deal of freedom in choosing a color scheme for the space.’
“Depending on the overall look of the space’s design, we typically use stripes, solids, trays, and flowers with plaids. If the piece of furniture has a patterned fabric, we will find that solid, tray or floral pillows are best.”
A bold patterned rug and tapestry on the leading edge of the curtains add warmth in this room by M. Lavender Interiors.
Janet Messick McKee
— Mark Lavender, M Lavender Interiors, Winnetka, Illinois
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