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Decorating Your Apartment

7 Unique Patterns to Know When Decorating

A special type of check pattern is called Glen check.
A special type of check pattern is called Glen check. Photo: Getty Images / whyframestudio
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January 4, 2026, 6:43 am | Read time: 4 minutes

With strategically used patterns, a room can be styled particularly elegantly. Certain patterns are even indispensable for specific styles to harmoniously complete the overall look. Those who wish to decorate their home with desired patterns benefit from knowing different types of patterns and their names.

Damask

Damask is an artistic weaving technique that creates particularly noble patterns. It is characterized by opulent, shimmering structures where the design is not defined by colors but by subtle differences in sheen within the fabric. Typical motifs include floral, baroque, or ornamental swirls that appear almost three-dimensional depending on the light.

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The pattern brings a luxurious, elegant atmosphere to the room. It is especially common in high-quality wallpapers, tablecloths, and runners, as well as curtains. With its almost regal appearance, Damask is ideal for a classic-elegant, baroque, or glamorous interior style.

Quatrefoil

The ornamental pattern of four evenly arranged curves is called Quatrefoil (with “quatre” being French for the number four). The pattern resembles a four-leaf clover. On wallpaper, carpets, or tiles, Quatrefoil creates a classic, slightly oriental touch. The pattern skillfully combines oriental elegance with graphic clarity, making it both modern and timeless.

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Quatrefoil is decorative but not overwhelming. The pattern is suitable for an oriental, Mediterranean, or modern interior style.

Glencheck

Not all check patterns are the same: Glencheck is a traditional weaving pattern composed of overlapping small and large checks. The check shapes are created by a combination of light and dark yarns, giving it the appearance of a fine, complex check, often in shades of gray, brown, or beige. It is elegant but never too loud.

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In interior design, Glencheck conveys British nobility and structure. On upholstered furniture, cushions, or curtains, it provides a classic yet modern look that exudes calm and Scottish elegance. Whether it’s a country house, mid-century modern, classic-traditional, or dark academia style, Glencheck complements various interior styles with British nobility.

Argyle

Argyle refers to a diamond pattern where large rhombuses overlap and are connected by diagonal lines. The diamonds often appear offset and in multiple colors, creating a dynamic look. Known from knitwear, Argyle can also be charming in interior design.

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The pattern gives any room a cozy, homely atmosphere. On carpets, plaids, or cushions, it appears warm and playful. It is ideal for cozy or traditionally inspired styles, such as Scandi, country house, or retro and preppy.

Chevron

A zigzag pattern with regularly ascending and descending V-shapes is called Chevron. The pattern is striking for its clear lines. Depending on the color contrast, it can appear soft or bold. The repetition of the V-shapes creates a strong graphic effect.

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Chevron is a modern classic: perfect for accent walls, carpets, or cushions. The pattern brings energy, dynamism, and structure to rooms. Those who prefer a retro look in their home should use this pattern.

More on the topic

Damier

A checkerboard pattern of equally sized square fields alternating in two colors is called Damier. It is a very clear, geometric, and contrasting pattern. Traditionally, it is colored in black and white, but other color patterns have also become popular. There are no limits.

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In home decor, Damier can create visual clarity and a retro effect as floor tiles, carpet, or wallpaper. For modern, graphically oriented interior styles, Damier is a defining element.

Kikko

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Those who prefer a Japanese-inspired interior style should consider this pattern. Kikko is a traditional Japanese pattern consisting of hexagons that symbolize a turtle shell. Its high symmetry gives it a calm and steady appearance. In wallpaper, ceramics, or textiles, Kikko brings subtle Asian elegance to the room.

This article is a machine translation of the original German version of MYHOMEBOOK and has been reviewed for accuracy and quality by a native speaker. For feedback, please contact us at info@myhomebook.de.

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