How to combine colour and pattern in playful interiors

Creating a playful interior is about letting go of the rules and letting colour, form and feeling lead instead.
It might be a children's room, but it could just as well be a hallway, a bathroom or a kitchen where you want to create something unexpected and personal.
Here are our best tips for combining colour, wallpaper and textiles to create a harmonious yet lively whole.

1. Start with a feeling

Do you want the room to feel calm and harmonious, or lively and creative?
Let that feeling guide your choice of colour and pattern.

• For calm: choose muted pastels, nature motifs or small-scale patterns.                                                                                                                                                                                            

• For energy: go for stronger colours, animal motifs or imaginative scenes.

2. Let the wallpaper set the tone

Wallpaper is often the most expressive element in a room.
In a bathroom it can bring a modern playfulness with waves or dots; in the hallway it can welcome guests with florals or graphic lines.
Use it on a feature wall or let the whole room be bathed in pattern – both work, depending on the feeling you are after.

3. Pair with soft materials

Combine the wallpaper with textiles and materials that reinforce the style:

• Curtains in linen or velvet                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                  

• Rugs in natural materials                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                        

• Cushions and small details in matching or contrasting colours

This creates balance even when the wallpaper is expressive.

4. Make room for personality

Let the details speak. A colourful mirror in the bathroom, a patterned bench in the hallway or a playful lampshade can make all the difference.
The playful style relies on daring to combine things without everything having to match perfectly.

5. Think long term

A playful interior should feel inspiring every day.
Choose motifs and colours that make you happy but also stand the test of time – that way your home grows with you, not away from you.

Looking for inspiration on combining colours and motifs in the children's room?

👉 See our collection of playful wallpapers