Imperfect Symmetry: A Study in Abstract Pattern 

Patterns don’t need to follow perfect lines to leave an impression. Some of the most arresting compositions are those that feel improvised, like the branching of a tree or the scatter of stones in a stream. Irregularity can be powerful as it lends a sense of movement and ease that echoes the natural world. 

Think hexagons, not in a strict grid, but meandering as they suggest movement rather than order. Or mosaic tiles, each piece slightly askew, yet together forming something whole and intentional. These compositions resist rigidity and instead invite the eye to wander, to discover rhythm in the irregular.

This way of working with pattern feels like part of a larger shift—a recognition that imperfection carries its own kind of beauty. These patterns don’t rely on flawless repetition. They lean into feeling: texture over precision, gesture over rule. They invite curiosity and serve as a visual conversation that never grows stale.

Pattern play, then, becomes a way to express individuality and spontaneity within a considered design. It’s a reminder that beauty lives in the unexpected, and that sometimes, the most compelling stories are told in the subtle spaces found between perfect lines.

For a deeper dive into my thoughts around the role of pattern in modern interiors, visit Southern Living’s article, “7 Fun Patterns Designers Are Loving Right Now.”


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At the heart of Musings is a belief: that exceptional design emerges through conversation, collaboration, and shared curiosity. We invite you to be part of this unfolding dialogue, share your reflections, pose questions, or suggest topics that stir your imagination.


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Designing a Midcentury Modern Living Room