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Interiors Inspo

What is a Pattern Repeat? Choosing the Right Splashback Deign for your Space

17th June 2026

Wentworth Woodhouse Paint & Sip Workshop

If you’re looking at wallpaper or fabric designs, or indeed Emma Britton splashbacks too, you may be wondering what is a pattern repeat? We explain this technical design term in the journal post below to help you better understand. Accompanied by examples of Emma Britton Splashback patterns throughout.

What is a pattern repeat? 

Pattern designs, like those found in the Emma Britton glass splashback collections, work in different ways. A pattern repeat is the size of the repeated section of a design. This is useful for knowing the scale of the pattern and, subsequently, how it will look in your space. Small pattern repeats are often found in ditsy style or geometric patterns, whereas large repeats offer a more organic look. You’ll find both large and small sized pattern repeats in Emma’s splashback designs, alongside all-over and horizontal repeats, as explained below. 

One of the things that makes Emma Britton splashbacks so coveted is their considered design. Emma creates her designs specifically for splashbacks, meaning the pattern repeats work properly for kitchen shapes. Don’t forget that Emma’s splashbacks are all made-to-measure too, with patterns tailored where necessary to fit your unique space. 

Emma-Britton-Decorative-Glass-Splashbacks-What-is-a-Pattern-Repeat

Horizontal Repeats

Simply, these patterns repeat only horizontally. The length dimension will tell you how long the design is before it repeats again. 

Emma-Britton-Watercolour-in-Ebony-Floral-Repeat-Design

This pretty floral design has a short repeat, which creates a beautiful backdrop beneath the cabinetry. This style of design works well for both small and large areas. 

Emma Britton Country Garden Floral Glass Splashback

On the other hand, the Country Garden pattern has a very long repeat, which gives a statement wall mural look. This is great for creating a kitchen focal point. 

Horizontal repeat splashbacks are ideal for: long runs of cabinetry, beneath kitchen cupboards or as cooker splashbacks, in areas where you might be limited with height. 

All-Over Repeats

All-over (or block repeats) are patterns that cover a surface in all directions, repeating both horizontally and vertically. The pattern repeat will be shown as length x height, which will help you understand the scale of the design. 

Emma-Britton-Splashbacks for small-kitchens-and-bathrooms-Sweetpea

Emma’s Sweetpea design is a great example of an all-over floral pattern for splashbacks. Its dainty look is ideal for adding interest to smaller spaces like sinks, but can also be used successfully for larger wall areas to make a statement.

Emma-Britton-Fern-Repeat-Splashback-Designs
Left: Moonlight Fern design | Right: Sunlight Fern design

Wallpapers, typically, can also be half-drop repeats. This is a type of all-over pattern which has a natural stagger to the repeat. Emma’s Fern designs have a half-drop repeat for an enchanting wallpaper-effect look. 

All-over repeat patterns are great for: tall splashbacks like in shower enclosures, or areas where you want a more fuller patterned look to create a statement.

What decorative splashback design is best for your space?

You may have a clear idea and understanding of what splashback look you want in your space. So do order samples of the Emma Britton splashback design you like, as it’s helpful to check the colours against your other surfaces and finishes. 

Emma-Britton-What-Size-Splashback-is-Best-for-your-Home

Though, Emma is always happy to advise on what splashback choices will work best for your space and application. Enquire with Emma for a free design consultation, or browse Emma’s portfolio of bespoke splashback & interior glass projects for inspiration. Emma can also provide splashback visualisations, to help you better understand how your chosen design will look in your home. 

Contact via email: emma@emmabritton.net, or telephone Mon-Fri 9am-4:30pm +44(0) 7565 300 065