
These days, modern kitchens tend to keep things simple and clean and sparingly add patterns. I’m here to tell you that you can break the rules and have fun with patterns, while keeping it modern. But first, before you break the rules, let’s learn what the rules are.
Table of contents:
- Rules for Designing with Patterns
- TYPE: Stripes in Modern Kitchens
- TYPE: Nature-Inspired Prints in Modern Kitchens
- TYPE: Checkered Patterns in Modern Kitchens
- TYPE: Cowhide Fabrics in Modern Kitchens
- TYPE: Abstract & Geometric Patterns in Modern Kitchens
Rules for Designing with Patterns
First — Try to avoid two patterns of the same scale such as 2-inch checks on the stool and 2-inch checks on the drapes. Alternate the sizing by using tiny checks with larger 2 inch checks.
Second — Try not to add two busy patterns in a room. For example, a busy leaf pattern with a busy geometric pattern as shown below:

Two busy patterns = too much going on

One pattern and one solid = perfect contrast
Now, let’s take a look at over 10 top designers and how they broke the rules and designed with patterns.
Stripes in Modern Kitchen Designs
The most common pattern found in modern kitchens are stripes. Stripes come in all colors: blues, reds, greens, browns, etc. and typically convey a ‘fun’ mood. If stripes are skinny and tight, they can convey a clean, orderly space with a splash of fun.
Here’s a few kitchens showing off stripes:

What a beautiful, beach-style kitchen! — Photo by Showcase Kitchen & Bath

Notice the stripe patterns on the seat cushions on the stools — Photo by Claudia Martin, ASID
Striped Patterns for Bar Stools & Chairs

Grand Rapids striped pattern designs are great for upholstering on bar stools
Fabric.com has more striped patterns here:

Various striped patterns found on Fabric.com
Nature-Inspired Prints in Modern Kitchens
From leafs to palm trees and everything in between, leaf prints are making their way inside kitchens of all kinds of styles.

Proof that floral prints can make a statement in a modern kitchen — Photo by Martha O’Hara Interiors

This designer not only used floral prints on her stools, but on her curtains! You can do the same, just order some extra fabric/vinyl from us — Photo by Catherine M. Austin Interior Design
Nature-Inspired Prints for Bar Stools & Chairs

The CK Ladylike is a subdued leaf pattern that looks elegant on any Amisco stool or chair.

Trica fabric colors shown: Gabrielle Azalea, Patras Almond and Avery Pewter.

Trica vinyl patterns shown: Coachella Caviar, Coachella Domino and Coachella Grass.
Checkered Patterns in Modern Designs
In a modern kitchen, checkered patterns create a country or traditional feeling. Depending on the color, they can create a beach-like style to the kitchen. Here’s how these designers made checkered patterns work:

Note the checkered pattern upholstery on the white stools which really pops in the room — Photo by Echelon Custom Homes

The designer of this kitchen worked with 3 different patterns (window treatments, cabinets and seat cushions on stools). She also made sure the patterns have varying degrees of size — Photo by Cheryl Scrymgeour Designs
Checkered Patterns on Bar Stools
Here’s a set of checkered patterns that would look beautiful on a bar stool or chair:

Checkered patterns found on Online Fabric Store

Callee fabric shown is Matrix Charcoal.
Cowhide Fabrics in Modern Kitchens
Cowhide patterns are becoming super popular in today’s modern kitchens. They can create an edge to your design and can give the room a lively feeling and can even exude a little country charm. Check out how these designers used this pattern:

The cowhide pattern upholstery on the stool look great with the light fixtures — Photo by Willey Design LLC

These Upright stools by Amisco make a statement in this industrial modern kitchen.

The milk chocolate brown in this cowhide pattern pairs great with other elements in this kitchen — Photo by Danielle Trippett Interior Design & Decoration
Cowhide Patterns for Bar Stools

Amisco cowhide fabrics shown in GM Browncow and GN Browncow.
Abstract & Geometric Patterns in Modern Kitchens
Modern designs typically have a lot of sharp angles and clean lines and so, geometric patterns compliment modern and contemporary kitchens beautifully. Here’s how these designers did it:

What a masterpiece! Take note of the copper light fixtures paired with the copper-like dot pattern on the stools — Photo by Stacy Paulson Design + Build

The abundance of swirls on these stools look gorgeous against the simplicity of the rest of the space. It’s a beautiful contrast — Photo by JORY Workshop

Here, the designer decided to go with a cross theme using it on some of the cabinets, the wine rack, and the stools create an overall balance in the space — Photo by Chipper Hatter Architectural Photographer

Here’s an overall light kitchen so the designer didn’t go drastic with the shapes on the upholstered seat. They kept it simple with a pattern that makes things exciting — Photo by Brandon Barré Architectural Interior Photographer

Here’s a fun take on working with different patterns and colors on your stools! Never be afraid to think outside the box, like this designer — Photo by MBT Specialties
Geometric Patterns for Bar Stools

Amisco Geometric fabric patterns shown in AN Mercury and CH Cameleon.

Trica Geometric patterns shown in Sarteano Newspring and Redbury Feather.

Wesley Allen Geometric patterns shown in Hex Appeal Ivory and Hex Appeal Mineral.
There’s a ton of geometric patterns to choose from and even more found on other fabric stores online. Here’s a set that would look amazing on furniture:

A gorgeous set of geometric/shaped patterns found at Fabric.com
Here’s a list of our favorite fabric dealers:
Feeling inspired, yet?
You’ve seen kitchens with all types of patterns and I sure hope these have inspired you to think a little outside the box!
Even if you’re not a designer, you too, can create a design that you’re proud of. Look at how these designers orchestrated their kitchen. Take note on how they balanced everything in the room. Take note on how they contrasted various elements in the room.
If you have any questions or need help with color coordinating, Deborah would be happy to help you. She even wrote an article on this here.