Chevrons, herringbones, versailles, basket weaves–patterns. They’re everywhere! We’ve been talking about this trend of patterns and asking: what is it that makes people attracted to them? It turns out there are studies that look at our brain’s reactions and our emotional reactions to patterns. We see patterns even where there are no patterns.

So what is it about patterns that keep us coming back for more? We know they allow us to simplify daily life. Patterns can be calming and comfortable. Or intense and exciting. Here are the top patterns we’re seeing today (and why they’re attractive):

1): Chevrons and herringbones: The repetition and symmetry of these patterns in natural or monochromatic tones evokes the calming and harmonious. The angles inherent in herringbone and chevron give the surface a gentle movement, allowing the eye to travel up and down in a soothing manner.

2): Chevrons and herringbones—2.0: These patterns are flexible; they can be dragooned into eliciting excitement of the unexpected by incorporating various finishes that randomize or define the pattern.

3): Versailles: Larger, pre-panelized Versailles-inspired designs in neutral shades create a repeating pattern in a way we expect, but offer more visually interesting and dynamic surfaces than their unembellished counterparts.

4): Slat walls and Shiplap: The symmetrical and repeating lines create a soothing rhythm for the eye as well as defining spaces. Traveling up and over multiple planes, with varying space between boards, allows the slats to feel as though they are marching or moving.

5): Slat walls 2.0 and Block walls: Intensity and energy–easily achieved with non-repeating patterns like the trendy slat wall and block walls.

6): Basket Weave: These small Shou Sugi Ban Color Char “tiles”, an experiment from our finishing shop, were set out for our team to rearrange whenever the urge struck. Basketweave patterns turned up with regularity. As basket weaving was one of the widest crafts of early human civilization, it isn’t terribly surprising that our team found their Zen moments creating the repeating ‘weave’:

When color tiles were added, the team’s mixes of tones and textures became more lively and dimensional:

We know we’re naturally programmed to memorize and seek patterns as way to organize and understand the world around us (including finding faces in randomness*). In design patterns can help achieve the predictable and calm or push to the dissonant and intriguing. What’s next? How do wood patterns fit your design palette? We can pre-panelize your desired pattern or provide all the right pieces to put it together on-site. Let us know how we can best help make your vision a reality.