With geometric elements taking over interior design, we explore how you can use them to add depth and interest to your space.

Mathematicians have long been championing the idea that maths is everywhere and that everything around us is made of numbers. Whether you believe this or not, I certainly feel like all I can see is shapes and lines when looking at interior design at the moment.

I began noticing this more and more with each issue of KBB we print; think arched doorways and shower screens, fluted windows and cabinetry, checkerboard flooring, scalloped headboards and rounded kitchen islands.

Geometry in interior design – a trend or a coincidence?

This got me thinking – is geometry an actual design trend, or a mere coincidence? I made it my mission to find out and ask designers on how to best incorporate beautifully shaped designs into the home.

According to Gareth Davies, design director at Classic Interiors, geometric features have indeed become a prominent trend in contemporary home design. “The clean, linear lines, reminiscent of mid-century modern aesthetics, have gained in popularity due to their unmatched ability to balance simplicity and sophistication,” he says.

Meanwhile, Paul Illingworth, design manager at Abode, says it’s all part of a more ergonomic, functional yet deluxe aesthetic, which reflects the best of Nordic-inspired design.

Characterful spaces

But how can this “calm and collected look”, as Paul describes it, add personality to your space? Rudolph Diesel, interior designer at Rudolph Diesel London, tells me that aside from introducing a sense of order, the use of different shapes can also add an air of character. “Mixing multiple geometric elements will bring in a delicate touch of modernity,” he says. “But you should aim to strike a balance between bold geometric statements and subtle accents, for a well-rounded, inviting interior.”

To achieve the perfect blend of calm and characterful, start with softer nods to geometry, for example in the form of mid-century armchairs, linear pendant lights and striped cushions, before going big (if the layout allows it) with features like fishscale wall tiling in the shower, arched boudoirs in the bedroom and bulky kitchen islands in all kinds of shapes.

“A rectangular or square island can provide a strong focal point, but ensure it’s proportionate to the room’s size, to avoid overwhelming the space,” advises Helen Lord, founder of Rehome.co.uk. “For an interesting visual dynamic, consider an island with angled or faceted sides. Waterfall island worktops, with straight edges extended vertically down the sides of the island, will enhance the geometry, too.”

Geometry in kitchen design

Kitchen designs can benefit from geometric patterns in the splashback, cabinets and flooring, as well, or you can opt for an upholstered banquette or bar stools in a bold print. And when it comes to flooring, hexagonal or checkerboard patterns will make for a contemporary yet timeless design.

If you have a small kitchen, a bold, patterned floor makes a statement, too; it catches the eye without being overwhelming in a limited surface area.

Stand-out bathrooms

In the bathroom, fluted panelling details and kit-kat tiles, split-level paint colours or terrazzo flooring are easy ways to add geometry to your scheme. Hexagonal floor tiles and herringbone flooring can also make a small bathroom feel bigger. Or, if you prefer to keep things simple, you could add just a touch of geometry with a compact oval-shaped tub or circular basin.

Minimalist, geometric brassware is also on the rise, says Clive Griffiths, manager at Grange Design. “A basin tap can now be as simple as a solitary spout fitted to the wall – drawing attention to the innate geometry of today’s architectural bathroom.”

Ideas for the bedroom

When it comes to the bedroom, it’s easier to get creative with geometric designs. Think patterned wallpapers, scalloped or wavy headboards, bobbin bedside lamps, or even arched shutters. “You can accentuate the curves of arches and alcoves by painting them in a different colour,” says Ryan McDonough, interior design expert at MyJobQuote.co.uk.

“Or you could pick out the angular shapes of dormer windows and sloping ceilings with geometric panelling or a wallpaper, or repeat these shapes using mid-century furniture.” In any case, consider the overall style of your room, and use an anchor to tie disparate design threads together, advises Gareth. “A geometric-patterned rug would be perfect for this,” he says.

All trends aside, we shouldn’t forget that geometry can define or, at the very least, contribute to a room’s layout, right from the planning stage. “Geometry is something we consider for every project,” says Pia Pelkonen, creative director at Pia Design. “It often helps us enhance the design of a space – vertical lines can maximise the appearance of height, triangles can help to distract from a sloped or awkward angled space, and split-effect horizontal lines can add contrast or depth.”

So, next time you notice an avocado-shaped bath nestled underneath a gorgeous arch, take a second to appreciate the fine geometry hidden within the design.

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