We’re Into: Fretwork

In the world of design, a “trend” often can have deep-seeded design roots that trace back hundreds, and even thousands of years. It certainly holds true for one hot design that’s trending now — fretwork. The interlaced decorative design has been on the scene for 3,000 years — it was first discovered on Egyptian furniture removed from sealed tombs — and has spanned the globe in its influence in art and architecture.

Today, the geometric motif has fast become a staple in today’s decor, and it’s making its mark on just about anything, from floors to walls. See how we’re using this pattern to punch up the personality in any space.

Elaborate fretwork was clearly evident on works by such famous 18th-century craftsmen as Thomas Chippendale. His designs were influenced by the geometric patterns found in early Chinese temples. Our Dayna Arm Chair captures the sophisticated soul of Chinese Chippendale styling with classic fretwork and bamboo-inspired turnings.

Whether on a rug or upholstered on a piece of furniture, fretwork adds a fun graphic element to any room. It mixes well with other patterns, even one of its own. Here, we paired our trellis-style Pallini Spa Fabric by the Yard with the quatrefoil pattern of our Blair Rug. Both are a play on Moroccan architecture and fretwork.

Can you spot the fretwork in this room? The pattern can be more subtle and still have a great impact on the overall style of the space. Our Bornova Coffee Table shows off an airy latticework design while a Chinoiserie-style fretwork motif is carved into our Classic Garden Seat.

The geometric nature of fretwork transcends interior design styles, so don’t limit yourself. We can picture our Malaya Lattice Wall Decor in a traditional or contemporary setting. We love it in pairs or used singly. Hang one to break up the monotony of a gallery wall or to serve as an alternative to a mirror in an entry or dining room.

Looking for another reason to love fretwork? The application can add texture to a room. On our Mariette Table Lamp, a lattice design is hand carved into the wood base, creating three-dimensional details.

The first fretwork applications were hand carved into wood. Here, we love the classic fretwork pattern featured in our Ceylon Collection. The lovely hand-carved details bring so much interest to an outdoor dining space.

Of course, the safest way to commit to a trend is with throw pillows. Pile on the pattern on your seating. The fretwork pattern featured on our outdoor pillows is our Trellis Taupe Fabric by the Yard, made from Sunbrella® acrylic, so you can use it indoors or out. Pssst: note the border on our Suzanne Kasler Indoor/Outdoor Quatrefoil Rug!

For more design inspiration, visit our Pinterest Boards, or find more gorgeous rooms in our Photo Gallery.