An Ode to Zig Zags

Mary McDonald

It's no secret that I have a strong affinity for bold colors and bold prints -- and maybe it's just because that, like a toddler, I require a lot of visual stimulation (though I'd like to think that it's more attributable to an appreciation for bold, cutting edge design). Lately though, I'm increasingly drawn to zigzag patterns and I suddenly feel like I'm seeing it everywhere, be it in the form of a Missoni print throw, a Madeline Weinrib zig zag rug, or even just a fun pillow or seat cushion.

Erinn Valencich

In soft neutrals, the zigzag wallpaper in this bedroom by Erinn Valencich is more subtle, adding dimension with a subtle layering of pattern.

Jamie Drake

I'm of the belief that a touch of Missoni's iconic zigzag print works beautifully in just about every situation. Here, Jamie Drake's blend of zigzags, blue paisley and blue stripes on the sofa is absolutely masterful. Drake may be known in the design world as the King of Color, but he may also deserve the dual crown of the King of Pattern for this room. The green in the zigzag print also references in the neatly upholstered green chair.

Mary McDonald

I think this bathroom featured in domino earlier this year must be one of the most widely circulated images in the design blogosphere. Nevertheless, it's worth posting here yet again -- note how the varying thickness of the zigzags creates a more organic and less structured feel.

Lee Kleinhelter

Just before Cottage Living folded, it did a spread on the home of Lee Kleinhelter, the owner of the Atlanta-based boutique Pieces, and it was certainly a fitting swan song for the magazine. I loved just about all the rooms featured in the spread but the living room's bold yellow and white zigzag floor is an arresting focal point for the space. The bold modern pattern is contrasted nicely with the organic wood coffee table.

Jonathan Adler

There are a lot of things I love about Jonathan Adler's design for Liz Lange's Westchester, New York, home (see HERE for more images), but the zig zag rugs in the living and dining rooms might just be my favorite elements in the design. The black and white is such a fun, graphic contrast to the pops of yellow and turquoise.

Miles Redd

Like the Mary McDonald pictures shown above, this Miles Redd bedroom has made its way around the blogosphere many, many times by now, but it's such a wonderful example of how to incorporate a modern zigzag motif into a traditional room. The graphic zigzags are bold counterpoints to the delicate and intricate wallpaper and ethereal bed. For me, this room is quintessential Miles Redd: a brilliant mix of chinoiserie, traditional furnishings and cutting edge patterns and colors.

Nicole Balch of Making it Lovely

Another successful example of incorporating Madeline Weinrib's Zig Zag rug into a space is Nicole's lovely mid century modern-inspired living room. In contrast to Miles' room, the zigzag is the dominant motif here. The streamlined furniture is kept neutral in tone and the subtle pink walls enhance the pinks in the rug without competing with it.

And of course, I can't help but end my homage to all things zigging and zagging with a roundup of my favorite zig zag accessories (and stationery!):

Sourcelist (clockwise from top left): Las Olas Lamp from Emilia Ceramics ($185); zig zag notepad and zig zag stationery from Linda & Harriet ($12-$14); Chevron Stripe calling cards from pixelimpress ($22/set of 50); East village fabric from Rubie Green ($90/yard); ZigZag rug from West Elm ($39-$649); ZigZag pillow from TwinkleLiving ($50); East Village bedding from Rubie Green ($54-$239); and Aubergine Zig Zag rug from Madeline Weinrib.