5 Strategies for Working Texture Into Your Home
Incorporate texture into your rooms in a timeless yet on-trend way with these five clever approaches.
While it’s true that texture has always held an important place in interior design, the choices available today are bigger, bolder and more attention-getting than at any other time. Going back to basics, everything has a texture to it. Combining different textures is essentially balancing positive and negative space. The challenge comes when trying to harness texture so that it enhances a space, rather than leaving it feeling disconnected or messy.
One smart approach is to take a more physical view of texture. Use it to encourage touch, both within the actual space and through images, like wall art and photographs. Here are a few tips to help you effectively incorporate texture into your home.
Using Texture In Decor
When texture is missing in a room design, it makes the space look like it lacks something, even though you may not be able to pin down exactly what that “something” is. Texture brings warmth and a physical connection to the decorative objects that make up your household. Remove it and the room instantly becomes flat and less interesting — which makes the case why it’s well worth understanding this design element, even if you’re just a layman.
Outlined below are recommendations for incorporating texture, and they are pretty simple. But one rule must not be altered: Texture must sync with the overall design concept. It has to make sense. Include appropriate textural elements for the design style you’re working with. For instance, when working with contemporary design, find pieces that work well in a modern space.
1. Layer Throw Pillows
Layering pillows is probably not something new to you, other than the fact that it’s an actual, confirmed design concept. Grouping pillows of varying textiles is about as simple as it gets for adding texture. There are endless options — from oversized floor poufs to leather lumbar pillows — so it’s relatively simple putting together a thoughtful display of pillows in different looks and feels. As a result, your designs will be fuller and more well-rounded, and may come together quicker and cost less than other alternatives, like a more complex reupholstery project.
2. Incorporate Different Materials
Whether big or small, different elements can help give your space a boost with texture. Essentially, the important part is mixing things up — regardless of how tiny the added item may appear. Picture frames are the perfect example. They are available in a wide variety of styles and materials, and have the ability to pull double-duty by adding texture as well as a huge portion of warmth and character. Consider mixing materials like earthy woods and polished brass. Either group them together or space them throughout the space to reach the perfect balance.
3. Contemplate Rugs
Rugs are hardworking furnishings. Not only are they key for defining spaces and adding warmth to a room, but are also important for giving your decor a boost of texture. If your room appears to be unfinished and has bare tiles or hardwood floors as a foundation, consider incorporating a rug for a transformative touch. It will add life to the room, but won’t overwhelm, like a larger, bolder decorative piece would do.
4. Display Your Baskets
Basket collections were a huge trend years ago, but fizzled out around 2005. If your basket collection is stowed away collecting dust, now is the time to pull it out. If not, handwoven baskets can easily be sourced at various places — physical locations and online — at reasonable prices. Thrift stores, antique shops and discount retail stores featuring home goods are all options to consider. Add a basket as a receptacle for everyday items, or put together a prominent display from budget-friendly baskets or priceless antiques by hanging them on the wall collectively as art. It’s pretty exciting that something as simple as a basket can provide an unexpected textural element on a bare wall, as opposed to investing in other pricey options, like shiplap.
5. Make a Statement
Do you find taking risks with your decor intimidating? Consider making texture your decorative statement. For example, try using accent chairs to add interest and color, or even smaller elements like a side table, ottoman or floor pouf when space is tight. They all have the ability to take center stage, while bringing both texture and personality.