Watching patterns take off and become design trends is always interesting for designers. After all, a lot of trending patterns are classics in the design world. Its being used in a particular way or space on repeat that makes one a trend. Take stripes, for example. What could be more classic? Still, when we started to notice wide vertical stripes in bold colors everywhere last winter, we called the cabana stripe trend. The checkerboard pattern is another timeless choice, and lately weve been seeing it on social media and in homes in more colorways, textures, and materials than the traditional black-and-white tile you might think of. When trends start to gain traction like this, people wonder how to incorporate them in their space. So we reached out to a handful of designers to get their take on how to use the checkerboard pattern in your home, in permanent and temporary ways. How to Use the Checkerboard Pattern in a SpaceFrom furniture to throw pillows, there are plenty of unique ways to bring in the checkerboard pattern. Olga Doykhen, founder of her eponymous design studio, likes to play with the concept. Consider incorporating the pattern through subtle variations in texture, tone, or material, Doykhen tells House Beautiful. In my office, I incorporated a checkerboard effect using wooden cabinetrysome with doors and others as open shelving. This approach balances function and aesthetics while creating subtle visual rhythm without overwhelming the space. You could opt for a checkerboard print in a neutral colorway as opposed to black and white to makes a soft statement. Looking for an even lower commitment option? Add some temporary decor. A rug or wall art is something you can try out in different rooms and swap out if your tastes change.How the Checkerboard Pattern Has Evolved Over TimeThe traditional black-and-white statement is just a starting point. As Doykhen puts it, Todays interpretations often play with materials and patterns, such as subtle tone-on-tone variations and unexpected color combinations. Youll find the pattern in many more unexpected mediums as well, such as a variation in woodgrains or stains or textured fabrics. Checkerboard also comes in a variety of scales and shapes, which both can add to the impact the pattern has in a space.Keep reading to see designer examples of the checkerboard pattern being used in interiorsboth in classic and more modern ways. For more trend stories: