Checkerboard Is In – Here Are 7 Ways to Bring It Into Your Home

February 18, 2021 by Juna Xu

While the last few years were all about minimalism and Scandi trends, 2021 has seen a huge shift towards bold prints and colors that help express an individual’s personality. The Grandmillenial style, packed with chintz prints and ruffled pillows is just one example. Retro twisted candles have suddenly been rebranded as “cool” and are dominating Instagram feeds, as is Regency-core inspired by hit series Bridgerton.

Now, a lesser-known minimalist-antagonist-trend is starting to resurface: checkerboard.

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Although it’s not the most avant-garde trend to make it into the spotlight, there’s several reasons for its resurgence. Perhaps it was Netflix’s award-winning show The Queen’s Gambit that ignited this style, or the fact that checkerboard is classic and versatile depending on how it’s styled. For instance, checkers can be French country or retro, sophisticated and classy or fun and boisterous.

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But before you go tiling your floors black and white, take note that checkerboard can be used in so many other ways besides just underfoot - and won't cost you a fortune, either. The trend that can be spotted in the backgrounds of Instagram’s trend-makers, has manifested itself into everything from chairs to cushions, rugs, tablecloths, and even crockery and kitchenware. Here are seven ways you can jump onto this interior trend and tastefully incorporate it into your humble abode.

7 ways to add the checkerboard trend into your home

1. Cushions

Switching up your cushions is one of the most simple and inexpensive ways to bring a room to life. Opt for a color that ties the room’s colors together - the bold checkered pattern will draw an eye while making the space feel cohesive.

2. Crockery

For those who want to add a subtle checkerboard style into their space, a set of checkered dinnerware is your best bet.

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3. Tablecloths

No, we’re not talking about a red gingham tablecloth you’ll find in Italian restaurants (unless that’s the vibe you’re going for). If you want a more formal look, choose softer hues like a white and beige combo.

If you want to add more color, opt for a color that flows with the decor of your home without overwhelming it.

Also, consider the colors of your crockery, or choose a tone that brings out the shade of your walls.

4. Throws

Style a simple bed, couch, or chair by draping a blanket over it. Melbourne brand Curio Practice makes sustainably-produced knitted checkerboard ones, so save up your pennies and you’ll have one to lounge around with come winter.

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5. Tables

From coffee tables to credenza tables, solid cubes and desks, tables covered with monochromatic small square tiles have made their way to the top of everyone’s wishlists. With a handful of independent makers crafting beautiful, handmade tiled tables, this is one home décor dream that is very much within reach.

Plus, for anyone irritated by the insidious fingerprint marks that come with any glass tabletop, or sick of water stains on your pricey marble, tiles are the option that prove to be high-impact and practical.

6. Kitchenware

You don’t want to be serving your cheese platters and charcuterie selections on any ordinary wooden board. Butchers boards crafted from a mix of white maple and black walnut can be seen in the kitchens of Instagram’s favorite home chefs and interior gurus. Be sure your board is made from high quality wood, such as one from Baccarat.

7. Rugs

There’s no need to pull out your floorboards to have a checkered pattern underfoot. Simply trading in your minimal rug for a checkered one can instantly give your living space a completely new feel.

If you want to introduce a real pop of color, consider mauve, green, or terracotta checkered rugs. Otherwise, a traditional black and white piece will freshen up the room without distracting from other decor pieces.