Artful Combinations Create a Distinctive Look for the Home

Vibrant interiors are a product of the creative merging of color, texture, and patterns

May 9, 2024

Anne Hebert,

PonyUp Ranch, Edwards, Colorado. | Photo: Durston Saylor

Eye-catching interior design shines a spotlight on beautifully unexpected outcomes when mingling the use of light and fine art to amplify color and texture in any space. For those not afraid to embrace these elements, wallpaper, surface materials, and mixed metals offer infinite possibilities. When using innovation and imagination, the sky’s the limit to expressing personality in a home’s design.

Known for her ability to transform spaces with a bent toward the unique and playfully surprising, Andrea Monath Schumacher founded Andrea Schumacher Interiors in 1999. Denver-based, with a studio in Santa Barbara, California, she has experience designing residential and commercial spaces, and set designs for television. Her goal is to craft a space that tells a story reflective of the owners’ personality. Schumacher’s process begins with learning about her clients and setting the scene for a look they’ll gravitate toward. Details small and large are never overlooked as she creates a harmonious mix of traditional, contemporary, and eclectic touches.

Photo: Emily Minton Redfield

“Assessing the size of a client’s personality is as important as measuring the space of a room,” Schumacher notes. “If a client has a big persona, it’s fun to wholeheartedly go for a look that gives the interior space character to match.” Likewise, personal collections can be combined creating art exhibiting passions and hobbies. Using wallcoverings as a tool to express creativity, Schumacher favors luxe textures and bold patterns to elevate a room by infusing it with personality and depth. “Fun wallpaper can evoke emotions and create a desired atmosphere,” she says. “Soft, serene patterns exert a calming influence while a bold, geometric design imparts colorful energy.” Selecting the right wallpaper can make a big contribution to a perfectly curated environment.

Schumacher points out that balance is key to making an interior design work. “Small and large weaves for textural interest can be combined with patterns in the throw pillows and artwork to bring a space to life,” she explains. “Neutral textured walls can be complemented with colorful art and rugs that are easily changed to refresh the look in the future.” Patterns can be contrasted by incorporating a similar color scheme or design. Pair a large pattern with a complementary small one and bold colors against a neutral background to achieve a lively mix. “When it comes to designing your home, it’s crucial to let it reflect your story,” Schumacher points out. “It’s important to always remember that functionality and beauty can coexist in a home.”