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The classic checkerboard pattern has always been impactful, whether it’s found on a 1950s diner floor, a Victorian hallway, or even a Mini Cooper. But now, this timeless design is taking on a new and unconventional form. Jacqueline de la Fuente, the artist behind De La Jardin, believes that checkerboard can adapt to any space and shape. She showcases this versatility in her papier-mâché Onsen vases (£340), where irregular squares create a textured and curvy surface. Similarly, ceramic artist Hannah Simpson adds a playful touch to her clay lamps by incorporating deep brown squares that wiggles up the lamp legs (£460). Her You table lamp (£370) features forest-green checks scaling an arch, providing a striking contrast to the organic forms of her artwork.
Henry Holland’s Check Collection tableware (starting from £52) takes a different approach to the checkerboard pattern. Each handmade ceramic piece features an imperfect and wobbly pattern, adding charm and personality. Inspired by the floors of traditional British “greasy spoon” cafes, Holland’s collection focuses on breakfast-themed items like egg cups, soldier plates, milk jugs, and toast racks. The glossy blues, greens, and chocolate brown bring a presence to any space while still allowing the other features to shine.
Baina, an Antipodean brand, finds inspiration in checked bathroom floors for its organic cotton towels (starting from £21 for a hand towel). Co-founders Bailey Meredith and Ann Fahey view the checkerboard motif as a whimsical and disruptive alternative to stripes in a typical bathroom setting. Tunisian brand Altin takes a unique approach by combining squares of sea rush with oxidized metal on the front of its limited-edition Ganymède cabinet (price on application).
For upholstery, Buchanan Studio recommends the checkerboard pattern for a bold statement. Their Checkmate fabric (£144 per meter) in oversized sage green cotton-velvet adds a striking touch to their Studio sofa. Interior designer Susie Atkinson suggests complementing the sofa with matching scatter cushions in the same check pattern. Atkinson offers a linen and cotton fabric (£150 per meter) hand-woven with ikat-style checks in toffee, indigo, and burnt terracotta tones.
If you’re feeling adventurous, consider reimagining color combinations. Bert & May has seen a rise in the popularity of bold color pairings in their plain tiles. Instead of predictable neutrals, customers are opting for two strong colors. Vanderhurd, in collaboration with 8 Holland Street, offers hemp dhurrie rugs (starting from £980) in daring colorways like sky blue with rust red and ochre with black. Their Checker Checker jacquard fabric (£340 per meter) takes it a step further with a four-way color scheme.
Founder Christine Van Der Hurd advises approaching color choices carefully to avoid fads that may quickly go out of style. Checkerboard can truly bring a room together when used in a thoughtful manner. It adds impact to a space while still allowing its features to shine.
Don’t miss the FT Weekend Festival on Saturday, September 2 at Kenwood House Gardens in London. Join us for a day of debates, tastings, Q&As, and more! Hear from renowned speakers such as Henry Holland, Rosh Mahtani, Patrick Grant, Luke Edward Hall, and many others, alongside your favorite FT writers and editors. Register now at ft.com/festival.
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