How to Go Geometric Without Going Overboard

Though geometric patterns have been used in architectural and interior design for centuries — think ancient Greece and Morocco — you might have noticed they’ve become increasingly popular in modern homes over the past few years. Perhaps it’s their innate ability to add visual interest and texture to any style of home, whether it be eclectic, sleek or contemporary. Geometric patterns can enhance a space, but it’s not uncommon for people to be afraid of clashing. To make the most of the style but prevent yourself from going overboard, let’s take a look at designs by those who’ve done it right.

Christopher Elliott Design used bold shapes and colors to add drama to this bedroom, and made the look work with neutral accessories. If you want to go this big, whether via a feature wall or oversize artwork, make the area your focal point, so as not to overwhelm the space.


Geometric patterns are popular for kitchen backsplashes because they are so versatile. They can add interest without the need for color, or make a statement with bold hues. In this kitchen a little bit of color was cleverly sprinkled into the pattern, so as to be bold but not too out there.

Ceramic tiles: Tex - Mutina, Academy Tiles


The theme continues in the living room through soft furnishings. The pattern in the rug, throw and cushions adds warmth to the minimalist design.

Tip: You can mix and match different patterns, but to ensure a cohesive look, stick to coordinating colors in a limited palette — in this case yellow, white and gray, which also tie in with the home’s overall color palette.

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See how this rug lifts this space? While it’s certainly one of the focal points in the room, it’s not at all overpowering, thanks to its simple design and two-toned theme.

If your space needs a style update, a geometric rug could be the easy solution. Chevron is one of the most popular graphic prints being used in interior design today, and the contrasting color choices here add impact.

Rug: Arkee


These upholstered chairs nail the chevron print, adding a luxe touch to the contemporary room. You could look for furniture pieces with hard, straight lines in shapes such as hexagons and trapezoids for a subtle nod to the theme, too.


Lighting is an easy way to introduce geometrics into your home without going over-the-top; a range of angular pendants and table lamps with sharp edges — think the popular hexagon design — is becoming increasingly available.

You could also try swapping your pendant shade for one with a cutout geometric pattern, like this one, the DT-Kina 600. When the light is switched on, the shade’s intricate pattern is subtly reflected on the ceiling and walls, adding visual interest, texture and ambience.


Interior designer Greg Natale often uses geometric designs to play on shape and proportion. In this apartment he used wallpaper in an oversize diamond pattern to create depth and the illusion of space. While there’s no denying that the wallpaper is the feature of the room, it doesn’t scream for attention and works in harmony with neutral furnishings that echo the color palette.

Having said that, when choosing the right wallpaper, the “rules” needn’t always apply. “Yes, big prints make a bold statement, while smaller prints are more subtle, but that doesn’t mean they only suit large and small spaces, respectively. Sometimes a bold print in a small room can create the illusion of a larger space simply by its boldness,” Natale says.

Wallpaper: Pompeian, Cole & Son


Scared that loud colors and geometric shapes will make you feel stuck in a ’70s time warp? Try a pastel color palette that is less imposing and more calming. Lighter shades used on a larger scale, such as on the walls, will make a room feel light and fresh.


Bold, geometric patterns are an ideal alternative to cartoons and themes in kids’ bedrooms, especially if you don’t want to sacrifice style for fads. Try a geometric bedspread of few colors, like the one featured here, by Country Road. The pattern alone is strong enough to give personality to the room, and the bedspread can easily be layered with soft toys, cushions or a throw for added interest.

Blanket, pillow: Uimi


Existing structural features in a home, such as walls, windows and doors, can be enhanced to maximize their geometric lines. The space divider in this home demands attention, drawing your attention to the large window behind, which also has a characteristic geometric detail in the form of its frame.

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The ornate geometric design on this security door adds personality to the concrete and wrought iron entrance and makes for a beautiful entry into the home. Such a classic design is a subtle nod to the fine lines of geometry, which will simply never go out of style.

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