Inspirational Interiors: Pattern Drenching
à la Français
pattern drenching interiors
IMAGES: Little Greene Paints
We’re all still loving colour drenching and that immersive, cocooning comfort a fully painted room provides.
But now, it’s been joined by its sister: pattern drenching.
This design choice isn’t actually new! It’s simply had a rebrand. Traditionally, it was known as à la Française.
À la française translates as “in the French style” or “in the French manner.”
In culinary terms, it refers to serving all dishes at once. So try to think of it in the same way when it comes to prints and patterns in interiors.
It’s about embracing a layered look.
Rich textures
Considered colour palette
Effortless feel
A blend of old and new
So, what does pattern drenching look like?
Put simply, a pattern drenched room is one completely covered in pattern!
It’s not a style choice for the minimalist or pattern-shy… but for those who love texture, colour and making a statement with their interiors.
All sounding a bit much?
Maybe you LOVE the idea…?
Let us break it down into interiors schemes that can work for most households.
Let’s get started…
A maximalist approach… the whole hog.
Wallpapering EVERY wall… including the fifth. YES, the ceiling!
Upholstering a piece (or two) of your furniture in the same or a complementary pattern.
Layering in soft furnishings - cushions, curtains, and accessories. ALL echoing the same motifs and prints!
The result… a room that is quite frankly luxurious and unapologetically bold.
For more on how to layer patterns without fear, take a look at our guide to pattern remixing.
Wallpaper: Warner House, Fabrics: Warner House
A more minimalist approach… perfect for dipping your toe into the world of pattern drenching.
Start by wallpapering the four walls, leaving the ceiling untouched (often the most daunting to commit to).
Introduce the pattern or a complementary one through your soft furnishings. Think an accent cushion, a tieback, or, if you’re feeling a little braver, curtains or blinds.
Keep the rest of the room simple, using considered tones and textures to complement the patterns you’ve chosen.
The result is a gentler, more understated take on pattern drenching.
Wallpaper: The Pure Edit, Fabrics: The Pure Edit
Still feel like it’s too much?
There are so many ways to approach pattern drenching. You can start small, maybe with a patterned sofa or armchair.
The beauty of it is that there are no rules. You can build it up gradually over time or dive right in.
The choice is completely yours.
Wallpaper: Lewis and Wood, Fabrics: Lewis and Wood
Want to see a subtle yet personality packed example of “Pattern Drenching” we created for a customer?
