Tartan is a timeless fabric with deep heritage, but it’s far from traditional-only. When styled thoughtfully, tartan and plaid can feel contemporary, refined and perfectly suited to modern interiors.
From subtle accents to statement window dressings, tartan adds warmth, texture and character — especially when balanced with clean lines and neutral tones throughout the rest of your space. In this article, we discuss how to style tartan in a modern home without overpowering your space.
Why Tartan Works in Contemporary Interiors
Tartan’s appeal lies in its versatility. The structured pattern brings visual interest, while the woven fabric adds depth and softness — ideal for creating cosy, inviting, lived-in spaces
In modern homes, tartan works best when used intentionally. Rather than filling a room with pattern, introducing it through key pieces allows it to stand out while still feeling cohesive and current.
Choosing the Right Tartan for Your Space
Not all tartans are bold or traditional. Selecting the right colour palette and scale is key to achieving a modern look.
While neutral tartans in grey, cream or muted tones suit minimalist interiors, brighter shades like mustard or red, work best as statement features. In terms of scale, smaller-scale checks feel more contemporary than oversized plaid patterns.
For the best finish in a modern space, we recommend pairing tartan accents with plain walls, natural wood finishes, and soft textures to create a balanced feel that isn’t overwhelming.
Tartan Roller Blinds
Tartan roller blinds offer a sleek way to introduce tartan into a modern home. Their simple design keeps the focus on the pattern without adding visual clutter.
Best suited for:
Kitchens, bedrooms, and home offices
Styling tip:
Choose a subtle tartan design and keep surrounding décor understated to maintain a clean, modern feel.
Tartan Roman Blinds
Roman blinds showcase tartan beautifully, allowing the fabric to fold and drape naturally. This softens the pattern and adds warmth while still maintaining a tailored look.
Best suited for:
Living rooms, bedrooms, and dining areas
Styling tip:
Layer tartan roman blinds with plain curtains or coordinate with cushions in complementary colours or matching fabrics for a cohesive finish.
Tartan Curtains
Tartan curtains create a strong focal point while adding insulation and comfort. In modern interiors, they work best when the rest of the room remains simple and neutral.
Best suited for:
Living rooms, patio doors, and larger bedrooms
Styling tip:
Opt for floor-length curtains and limit additional patterns in the space to let the tartan stand out.
Tartan Cushions
Tartan cushions are an easy way to introduce tartan without committing to larger pieces. They’re ideal for adding seasonal warmth or refreshing a space with minimal effort.
Best suited for:
Sofas, armchairs, and beds
Styling tip:
Combine tartan cushions with plain or textured fabrics and stick to one or two patterned pieces per room.
How to Style Tartan Without Overdoing It
To keep tartan feeling modern:
- Use it as one key feature per room
- Balance pattern with plain fabrics and soft textures
- Keep your colour palette consistent throughout the space
This approach ensures tartan enhances your home rather than overwhelming it.
A Timeless Pattern for Modern Living
Tartan bridges the gap between heritage and contemporary design. Whether through tailored blinds, elegant curtains, or carefully chosen accessories, it brings warmth, character and style to modern interiors.
Explore different ways to incorporate tartan into your home and create a space that feels both timeless and distinctly yours.
Yes, tartan works beautifully in modern interiors when styled thoughtfully. Choosing subtle colourways, smaller-scale patterns, and balancing tartan with neutral décor helps create a contemporary look.
The easiest way is through one key feature, such as tartan blinds, curtains or cushions. This adds character without overwhelming the space and keeps the overall look clean and modern.
Tartan blinds can be very effective in contemporary homes. Roller blinds offer a clean, modern finish, while roman blinds soften the pattern and add warmth without feeling traditional.
Keep the rest of the room simple. Pair tartan curtains with plain walls, simple furniture, and natural textures. Limiting additional patterns helps tartan feel intentional and modern.
Neutral shades such as grey, cream and beige work well with tartan, as do deeper tones like navy and red. Sticking to a cohesive colour palette keeps the look contemporary.
Yes, tartan can work in small rooms when used carefully. Opt for subtle patterns or smaller-scale checks and use tartan on one feature, such as a blind or cushion, rather than throughout the space.
Tartan cushions are ideal for seasonal updates. They add warmth and texture during colder months and can be easily swapped out when you want to refresh your space.
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