featured image via Brian Patrick Flynn
I’ve talked about him many times before, so you know HGTV designer, Brian Patrick Flynn, is one of my favorites. But, fun fact: I hated plaid until I saw how beautiful it looks in many of his designs. He is the responsible party for my new found love of plaid and gingham. If you feel the same way I did about plaid, then today’s post is for you. I’m showing you all the ways Brian Patrick Flynn uses plaid (and gingham) in his interiors. Spoilers: all the ways are gorgeous.
First, I think my aversion to plaid dates back to childhood. As a child of the 80s, plaid was alive and well in my home. I remember the plaid sofas in my and my family member’s home. So much plaid. My eyes, my eyes! I also wore these itchy night gowns that were, you guessed it, all plaid. They were nice and Christmasy, but too hot and itchy for comfort. Even thinking about them makes me squirm. I started to hate plaid after that…until Brian Patrick Flynn came along.
Brian is a master at transitional decor. If you’re not familiar, transitional is a design style that bridges the gap between traditional and modern. Plaid is a super traditional pattern, and yet, it lends itself to modernity when used in interior design. He mixes both large and small scale patterns and the result is a really cool and unique design moment.
Ways Brian Patrick Flynn Uses Plaid
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Brian has shown me that plaid and gingham can be incredibly chic. No longer is plaid reserved for lumberjacks and old ladies. These patterns can be sexy accents to tufting, velvet, and alllll the texture in a space. All the ways Brian Patrick Flynn uses plaid is incredible. Not one of the ways is tired, but really fresh and modern (especially that large scale teal wallpaper!).
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From traditional tartan to upholstered tulip chairs, from cabin vibes to fine art gallery feels, plaid and gingham will provide a statement in any room without being overpowering. Because it is a traditional print, your eye recognizes it as being familiar so there isn’t as big of a shock, even when showcased in this bright blue palette. If anything, it adds a sense of nostalgia and warmth to modern spaces.
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Look at this modern take on a farmhouse dining room. The whitewashed table is too good and I love the industrial feel from the pendants. The success of this design comes from its limited color palette and metallic repetition. Lately, I’ve been straying away from the industrial look, but I really love how in this case, it gives the dining room some edge. I’m also loving the modern metallic candle holders that amp up the space. Who wouldn’t want to spend the holidays here??
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The ways Brian Patrick Flynn uses plaid are very strategic. The patterns can either be subtle or a statement, and the color and pattern fits seamlessly into his chosen color story. He does a lot of monochromatic palettes so the overall feel of the space is actually quite soft and subtle. Plaid has become the MVP (most valuable pattern) of home decor.
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One thing all of these interiors have in common: they are so cozy. Plaid just makes everything feel so warm and inviting. Maybe it’s because we typically associate the pattern with the holidays; from Christmas tree skirts to actual skirts, it makes the home seem softer and more friendly.
-Kristen
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