Fabric and Upholstery Tips From HGTV Dream Home 2016

Discover expert tips from interior designer Brian Patrick Flynn on selecting fabrics and watch the design scheme of HGTV Dream Home 2016 come to life.

By: Brian Patrick Flynn and Dana Dalrymple

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Photo By: Flynnside Out Productions

Systematic Selection

For an interior designer who begins every project with the selection of fabrics, Brian Patrick Flynn started building the design foundation of the HGTV Dream Home 2016 with window coverings, upholstery and pillow fabrics.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Varying Scale

If you're stumped as to where to start with your fabric selection process, know that the key to a well-layered room includes a range of scale: large, medium and small. A mix of different scale prints adds variety.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

The Power of Stripes

If you're intimidated by pattern, know that a classic, cotton ticking stripe adds a touch of graphic in a timeless manner and mixes well with a wide variety of other prints.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Consistent Vibe

When choosing fabrics, don’t lose sight of the overall intended look of the space. Before venturing out, create a mood board with different design elements from paint colors, furniture styles and even genres of art. Fabrics can seem ill-conceived if they don't all maintain the same level of taste.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Color Theory

Although it may sound odd, colors can take on different tints and shades depending on how they’re situated next to one another. As you select fabrics for different elements like window covering, upholstery and pillows, be sure to place them next to one another in natural light and artificial light to see how they appear.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Avoid Matching

To avoid a pattern packed space that doesn't come across as “matchy-matchy,” choose several shades of a color to slightly throw off the overall look.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Indoor-Outdoor Fabrics

When it comes to indoor-outdoor fabrics, there are so many styles available that it's hard to tell the difference between those meant strictly for interior use versus those for exteriors. Outdoor fabrics are often referred to as performance fabrics and are made to resist mold and mildew, wash off easily with a hose and are also UV-resistant.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn

Outdoor Pillows and Cushions

If you have commitment issues when it comes to using pattern for your outdoor upholstery, it may be smart to stick with solids for the main cushions and then add a print with a few throw pillows.

From: Brian Patrick Flynn