A neutral living space is timeless for good reason. Light, airy colors provide a space with just the right blend of warmth and coziness. However, introducing pattern and texture to these rooms saves them from feeling flat.
Take Naomi Watts‘ living room: the cream-dominated space sees a delightful disruption via blue, striped pillows and a blanket, which add just the right amount of pattern to the otherwise matte room.
As versatile as they are chic, stripes are technically always on trend, but designers say that they are having a real moment lately, making them a fantastic living room idea right now.
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Shop the striped living room accessory edit
Ruffled
Maeve Striped Ruffle Pillow
Deckchair stripes continue to be a big trend, evoking vacations and shoresides and summer and fun. A reason to keep this pillow, for sure.
Reversible
Lima Reversible Alpaca Throw
If you prefer a lighter blanket, this striped, reversible alpaca version is wonderful for year-round warmth. The simple pattern adds a beautiful texture, and it would look gorgeous layered with other blankets.
Gray Stripe
Add an accent to your sofa with this stunning gray and white striped pillow. Its farmhouse style is warm and inviting and the textured material brings in visual interest.
According to interior designers, stripes are making a mark in design thanks to their visual appeal and vivid nature.
Magdalena Gierasinska, head of product and displays at Barker & Stonehouse, explains, ‘Stripes are currently proving popular in interior design because they offer a perfect balance of boldness and versatility. The clean, graphic lines add a striking visual element to a space, making them ideal for both modern and classic interiors.’
They fit into a range of design aesthetics, from modern farmhouse to quiet luxury; however, there is one trend in particular that design experts say stripes evoke at the moment.
‘French style favors print and pattern, particularly the Breton stripe, a timeless and perennial favourite,’ explains Georgia Metcalfe, Founder & Creative Director at French Bedroom.
‘A touch of pattern can truly enliven a space. Stripes work perfectly on larger pieces of furniture like headboards to create a focal point in the room or equally well on soft furnishings like cushions or curtains to add personality and interest.’
If you want to go for a more maximalist striped look, try introducing a striped sofa or rug, which pairs just as well with neutral accessories.