15 Spaces That Prove Buffalo Plaid Isn't Just for Winter

Whether you recently boarded the buffalo bandwagon, or you're a longtime lover of the pattern, flooring is a fresh way to go all out. Tile in a buffalo check pattern works especially well to create both impact and cohesiveness within a small space. Interior designer Jenn Feldman explains why she chose it for this kitchen: "When renovating a smaller kitchen, the floors and cabinets are two areas that are large enough to make bold changes. A buffalo check pattern has great scale and gives you the chance to bridge three colors together into a unified design. It's fun and fresh but still neutral, providing a classic, long-term feel for a floor pattern."

"Buffalo check works great year round!" says interior designer Lindye Galloway. "If you pair it with brighter colors that work for all seasons, it will liven up the space," she explains. In this bedroom, the playful pattern pairs with loads of bright white to expertly accomplish that goal. Lindye says she specifically selected the pattern to complement the room's midcentury aesthetic while keeping the color scheme and overall design neutral. "Buffalo check is gender neutral, so it's a great look whether you're going for a masculine or feminine design," she adds.

Searching for a subtler take on the pattern? Look no further than the ever popular light gray. Thanks to its softer color tone, gray buffalo plaid works beautifully for large-scale applications, like wallpaper or window treatments. Pair with blush tones for a feminine vibe or matte black for a more modern aesthetic.

Black-and-white buffalo plaid visually ties this room together while also bringing interest to the mostly color-free space. The classic pattern proves an excellent choice for dining chair upholstery, thanks to its versatility and timelessness. If the bold choice still feels a bit risky, play it safe by only inviting the heads of the table to the pattern party.