A masterclass in mixing pattern
Cover stars of the April issue of House & Garden John Loecke and Jason Oliver Nixon, the US designers behind Madcap Cottage are staunch advocates of a more is more apprach to colour and print. We grilled them about how to mix bold pattern
'We use pattern as a form of expression, to make connections with other times and places, but also to reflect the character of the owner,' says John Loecke, one half of American __design company Madcap Cottage. The home John and his __design partner Jason Oliver Nixon share in LA (the new decoration of which can be seen on page 138 of the April 2017 issue of House & Garden) was the ideal canvas on which to take their signature look to its buoyant extreme. They explain the strategy behind their style.
1. Decide on a primary fabric and a dominant colour
'We start with a favourite colour and theme, such as blue and floral, and look for a multi-hued pattern that incorporates them. Make the dominant colour in the pattern the dominant colour in the room by painting the walls or cornicing in a similar shade. Then use your primary pattern in a big way, on something that will be noticed as soon as you walk through the door - for example the largest sofa, or the curtains.'
2. Build up secondary patterns and colours
'Find patterns that pull together the dominant colour and a couple of other colours from the primary fabric. Use these fabrics on secondary pieces in the room, such as rugs, cushions and lamps. Continue to build the scheme until you have represented all of the colours from the dominant fabric somewhere in the room.
3. Make it simple
'When mixing patterns, one method is to select more simplified versions of your primary fabric. If you love florals, make your primary fabric one that combines several different types of flower, then use secondary patterns with only one or two similar flowers.'
4. Choose complementary finishes
'Use furniture finishes that coordinate with the colours in the room. For instance, if the room is furnished in predominantly cool colours, such as greys or blues, use washed-out or light finishes.'
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