Not Just Checkerboard: The Alternative Pattern That Feels So Vintage

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We've seen checkerboard patterns done and re-done over and over again through flooring, carpets, furniture, and tiled walls. Checkerboard patterns are bold, graphic, and eye catching, which makes them a fantastic choice for ambitious homeowners who want their interior to ooze personality. But as with any trend, it starts to lose its appeal when it gets overdone. The good news is, there's an alternative pattern that has the same graphic dimension as checkerboards but remains quite nuanced: diamond patterns. 

In some cases, diamonds refer to squares as you'd see in a checkerboard pattern, except they're rotated 45 degrees so that the corners point up, down, and to the sides. In some other cases, diamonds refer to parallelograms that are slightly squeezed so that they're no longer perfect squares. These are more similar to a diamond suit you'd see in a deck of cards, or an argyle-patterned knit sweater. Diamond patterns can be incorporated in the same manner of how and where checkerboard patterns are used in home decor. They have that familiar grid layout with alternating colors, but they're angled sideways to create something a bit more gentle, fluid, and uncommon. 

If you love the sense of structure that checkerboards bring to a space, but want something different, a diamond pattern is perfect for you. Use them for a geometric accent wall, floors, furniture, or linens. For example, you'll see them used in tiles, parquet floors, carpets, throws, and upholstery. You can make it look classic or modern by using different colors and materials or pairing it with different interior design styles. 

A classic way to decorate your home with a diamond pattern is to use floor or wall tiles. One approach is to use regular square tiles but apply them with a 45-degree tilt. Another option is to use tiles with the slimmer diamond shape instead. You can buy these types of tiles in simple monochromatic styles, or with various colors or materials (like white porcelain or brown marbled travertine). Some diamond-shaped tiles really lean into that vintage vibe with alternating colors and shades that create geometric patterns. Some more modern models use small round tiles but create the diamond grid through colored stripes, instead of diamond-shaped tiles. 

You can still incorporate diamond patterns into your home if you're not looking for a major floor or wall remodel. One way to do this is through linens. You can buy throws, blankets, and duvet covers made with that same pattern and add them to your space as decor. You can also find stunning modern chairs with that similar diamond pattern, and if you really want to lean into the vintage style, consider looking for antique upholstered chairs that have that original design.

Finally, diamond patterns can be an interesting take on the checkerboard rug trend. Look for rugs with that angled checkerboard pattern. Once you start looking, you'll find tons of options, whether they're affordable or high-end. For example, the Beeiva Checkered Print Living Room Rug is a perfect way to bring this geometric pattern into your home.