More is more: Mastering the art of pattern drenching

Stripes, gingham, and chintz have been having a moment for some time now — proof that people are craving interiors that feel joyful and expressive.

- Adele Cardani, The Independent

But while patterned spaces are undeniably mood-boosting, combining multiple motifs in one room is no small feat. There's a fine line between eclectic elegance and visual chaos between a room that sings and one that simply shouts.

Enter pattern drenching: the bold, maximalist approach to interior design that embraces the layering of prints across every surface. Think florals with animal prints, and antique tapestries next to candy stripes, all united through a carefully considered palette. Though rooted in excess, pattern drenching when done right feels harmonised, not hectic.

We spoke with top interior designers and pattern specialists renowned for their vibrant aesthetics, uncovering how they balance boldness with cohesion. From practical tips to inspired visual cues and expert insights, we decode how to master the rule-breaking rhythm of pattern-rich interiors.