The art of layering: how to mix patterns, textures, and colors like a pro

Ever feel like your home decor is missing that je ne sais quoi? You know, that crucial ingredient that makes some houses look personal yet polished?

The secret might just be in mastering the art of layering: combining patterns, textures, and colors to create a harmonious and inviting space. Layering isn’t just about mixing anything…(unless you’re a true creative collector at heart and then you can just about pull anything off!)… but if you yearn to have that fabulous eclectic vibe in your home, you’ll be happy to know that you can learn the science (or steps) to make it work your way.

There are also a variety of perks to knowing how to layer well. For example, say you love the look of Persian rugs but you simply can’t afford the size you need for that large living room of yours. Layering rugs on top of each other can help you bring personality and pattern without blowing your entire budget. Check out these examples below!

Search 'rug overlay living room' + 'persian rug over jute rug' on Pinterest to find more inspo like this! Happy room + happy wallet = happier you!

So, how exactly do you master the art of layering? Here are my expert tips to get you started.

Start with a Neutral Base

Begin by grounding your room with neutral tones. This provides a versatile canvas, allowing your layered elements to shine without overwhelming your senses. Its an essential part of your overall scheme as your base acts like the glue - the pause amongst the play. And don’t just think whites, greys and beiges as your neutral, go with a gorgeous blush or sage if those colours are more ‘you’ or embody the feeling you’re hoping to create in that particular space.

If you’re bold and know what colour knocks your socks off, then smother the room in it to really ‘experience’ it - ceiling and all!

Incorporate Textures

Textures bring depth and warmth, making a room feel cozy and lived-in. Layering different materials—like a chunky knit throw over a sleek leather sofa or a velvet cushion on a linen armchair—creates tactile appeal. Don't shy away from mixing rough and smooth surfaces; this juxtaposition adds intrigue.

If you feel like your space is a bit clinical and lacking energy, bring in some natural textures like a jute rug to ground the space, a marble side table or a timber shelf - nature has her own clever way of adding texture to balance a space!

Play with Patterns

Introducing patterns adds visual interest and personality to your space, (and your textural elements will also have patterns in them so don’t discount their part in your scheme!) The key here is to vary the scale: pair larger, bold patterns with smaller, subtle ones to create balance. For instance, mix a large floral print with a delicate stripe or geometric design. This contrast ensures the patterns complement rather than compete with each other.

If you like equations, try this one out in about 40-60% of your room (leaving your neutrals to breathe with the remaining percentage):

3 Pattern Mix = 60/30/10 rule
(ie. 60% floral / 30% striped / 10% accent dots)

Starting with the foundation of tans, greys and whites as the neutral base, we layered different textures in (carved timber furniture, woven baskets, plaited leather chairs, grasscloth wallpaper, woolen rug etc) and by choosing a solid colour for the big furniture pieces, we were able to pull multiple accent colours from the (pattern filled) artwork and place around the room casually for added character and personality. This created an intruiguing and interesting space, rather than an ‘overwhelming’ space for the eye!

Project: High Country Homestead
Image: Tanika Blair Photography

Layering Rugs

Rug layering is a stylish way to introduce both pattern and texture. Start with a large, neutral base rug—jute or sisal works wonders—then add a smaller, patterned rug on top. This technique not only adds visual interest but also defines different areas within a room. You can try a top rug that’s about two-thirds the size of the base rug for rule book proportions, or place a smaller one in the centre and throw a coffee table on top... you’re simply drawing the eye in and creating a layered, focal point.

Color Cohesion

Colour is one of the most powerful visual tools we have for influencing the mood of a space. It’s where you’ll really need to trust your instincts and feel with your emotions which colours, or colour pairings, are tugging on your heart strings more than others. Two opposing colours (think navy and orange) are going to pop/contrast against each other and create a bold statement in your living room; whilst a harmonious pairing of deep greens, light greens and some blues could create a cocooning or calming effect in your space (because they’re next to each other on the colour wheel, rather than opposite each other).

Ask yourself what mood or atmosphere you’re after in that particular space, and then stick to playing with about 1-2 main colours (or tones of that colour) that bring this in for you. Add 1 or 2 more in smaller doses to complete your ‘main’ colour scheme. Artwork, cushions and rows of books will naturally add in other colours that are complimentary to adding character to your space (minus the chaos of purposely filling it with other ‘colours’!).

Personal Touches

Ultimately, your space should reflect you and be created for you. Incorporate personal items—travel souvenirs, family heirlooms, or kids art—to add uniqueness. These elements tell your story and make the space truly your own.

Remember: The art of layering is about creating balance and finding the harmony in your style, but it’s also about having FUN with it! Grab the swatches of fabrics before investing, test out the paint colours before committing. Experiment with items and colors that perhaps you haven’t tried before and see how they make you feel!

Get out of your comfort zone and lean into owning your creative process!

👉 Want a little extra help identifying your unique style? It all starts with a good intentional decluttering. Get my free checklist here to help you identify which items you love, and which you’re ready to - finally - get rid of!