Jamie Derringer on How Pattern Influences Her Multifaceted World
For interiors lovers like us, we often think of home textiles first when we think of pattern. But as Jaime Derringer knows, pattern goes well beyond the confines of home. Jaime is the Founder and Executive Editor of Design Milk, as well as its offshoots Dog Milk and Adorn Milk. She's also an acclaimed artist whose work is collected by celebrities and has appeared in blogs, magazines, TV shows, films, and galleries across the country.
We asked Jaime, designer and art-maker extraordinaire, to talk to us a little bit about how pattern touches and influences her multifaceted world. And lucky for us, she was also kind enough to join in on a some Wallpaper Two Ways fun. Keep scrolling to see which Hygge & West wallpaper Jaime picked and the two drastically different (but both seriously drool-worthy) ways she styled it, plus her pattern-filled interview below.
Hygge & West: What paper/colorway did you choose and why?
Jaime Derringer: I chose Diamonds in Pine because I liked the geometric look of it, but appreciated that there were no harsh lines. The softness of the edges of the design make it very versatile. Also, I’ve been pretty obsessed with green this past year. It would have been too predictable for me to choose black!
H&W: As the founder of Design Milk (design for home), Dog Milk (for pets), and Adorn Milk (for fashion), you encounter pattern regularly. What do you think pattern brings to each of these niches?
JD: Pattern surrounds us, even in nature. For the home, I encounter pattern in fabric and wallpaper and tile and even in materials. Over on Dog Milk, we’re always seeing pattern on fabrics used for collars, leashes, and dog beds. And on Adorn Milk, pattern plays a big role in metalwork. There isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t see pattern online in some form or another.
H&W: What inspires you in your art? In designing your home? What role does pattern play in both?
JD: My art is inspired primarily by nature—by what I see in the world that exists, but what I think might exist elsewhere, whether it be on another planet or deep under the sea. I’m inspired by patterns that emerge in nature, organic geometry, and color gradients. Black and white stripes are the most prevalent pattern that emerges in my work.
Image via Design Milk
As for my home, pattern is often seen in accessories and artwork, but I also feel like my vibe has always had a pattern… mostly black and white, but lately I’ve started incorporating more color—pops of intense color like my pink couch!
H&W: You work and live at the intersection of design and dogs. What advice do you have for creating a dog-friendly home that's still stylish?
JD: Dogs make messes, and if you can’t accept that, then don’t get a dog. My number one tip for dog owners is to create an environment for everyone to enjoy, not just adults. It’s not worth it if you’re always stressed out or worried about things getting messy or dirty, so surround yourself with cleanable fabrics, pet-friendly textiles and furniture.
Image via Design Milk
H&W: Hygge is the Danish concept of physical and spiritual coziness. How do you find or create hygge in your everyday life?
JD: My whole life is a quest for hygge! I am always trying to find comfort, but I think it’s important that you don’t get too comfortable that you can’t adapt or change. Comfort can sometimes work against you, so you have to be aware. 
RESOURCES:
Lush & Luxe Bedroom: 1. Headboard | 2. Sconce | 3. Nightstand | 4. Dresser | 5. Pillow
Modern Scandi Dining Room: 1. Chandelier | 2. Tray | 3. Table | 4. Rug | 5. Chair | 6. Servers
