In interior design, it’s defined as the sensation caused by the sense of touch, whether that is the course texture of a wood grain, the luxury of a dense carpet underfoot, or the velvety softness of a headboard. By adding layers of texture to your design you are creating depth by contrasting and complementing, in the same way as you add colour.
The power of texture isn’t limited to touch; it’s visually engaging too and influences the functionality of the room. Typically rough and contrasting textures create a cosy warmth, whilst shiny and smooth are calming and cool.
When putting a scheme together, collect samples of fabrics and furniture finishes of anything you plan on getting made from scratch and make a mood board of your favourite looks.
Curtain Raiser
Style and texture can start with window dressings. Offering much more than the practicality of controlling light and privacy, curtains and blinds, can elevate the overall look of the room.
Considering the surface of the fabric, whether it’s smooth or textured will define the style. Introduce layered treatments, by mixing and matching patterns, or creating contrast with textures and shape from one colour theme.
The height of the ceiling and size of the room should set the tone for the colour and texture of the fabric. Textures can set the mood, with lightweight fabrics visually increasing the size of the room.
Investing in a custom made service for window treatments is worth it. It means that you have a world of fabrics at your fingertips and not restricted to picking from whatever is on the shelves of the high street, they will last much longer too.
If you are looking for inspiration for a window treatment, pick out a tone and texture from a statement piece of furniture and let it become your focus for soft finishes within the room.
Take a Seat
A key way to create tactile visual texture to a room is with dining chair finishes, but practicality has to be taken into account here too, for both daily use and entertaining. Whether it’s for an elegant and sophisticated dining room or an open plan kitchen table, comfort has to be considered, so grainy or ridged surfaces are impractical.
Luxurious and stylish upholstered chairs in bespoke fabrics like rich velvet or linen, are the most comfortable option. But there is also a varied collection of modern wood finishes, from the dark and dramatic wenge to the rich tones of walnut.
Timeless and high quality European designs will add a contemporary touch in a modern open plan convivial space.
Artwork, on canvas, with acrylic, can also contribute texture to the design. Accessories too are relevant, with metallic finishes combined with earthy stoneware to tone down the rusticity of some key elements.
Time for bed
Upstairs too, textures can take your space to the next level. Fortunately there is a plethora to choose from to refresh your room and add a sensory quality, including custom headboards, soft furnishings and even a lamp shade to make a style statement.
The interior designers at Redrow combine earthy linens and wood frames to create feature headboards, a subtle bedroom luxury.
If you want your bedroom to look cosy, course surfaces and a plush carpet will also set the tone to create a soothing and calm sanctuary.
Add another dimension to your private haven with a carefully chosen plant, lighting, storage and a statement throw on the bed to create an impossible to resist space.
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