1. Home & Garden

Discuss in my forum

Colors Patterns and Finishes for Furniture, Home Furnishings

By , About.com Guide

Patterns for Furniture and Home Furnishings
Auteil Chaise from French Heritage

Auteil Chaise from French Heritage

Photo (c) French Heritage

Along with color, patterns are very important in the furniture and home furnishings industry.

There are global inspirations for fabrics along with organically inspired fabrics and exotic, handcrafted qualities. Suzani, ikat and batik patterns continue to be popular. they are now available in dark, earthy colors along with their original more vibrant colors.

The understated colors underscore a sophisticated look that depends on jet-blacks, grays, subtle blues and metallics. These are the new neutrals.

An interesting development is how traditional furniture shapes and silhouettes, such as this chaise, are adopting these exotic patterns to create a completely updated classic look.

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.