22
2018
HOW TO INCORPORATE TEXTURE INTO INTERIOR DESIGN
There can be a plethora of interior design elements that tend to take precedent in any decorating endeavor. Homeowners, however, tend to look at the bigger elements and impart more consideration towards these elements. This is especially so when one is decorating from scratch (take for example, one of those new HDB developments in yishun).
When there are more crucial decisions to be made (for example, what color scheme to go for; what key furniture pieces to buy; or what the overall feel of the room in question needs to be like), the smaller details end to be drowned out by the bigger, overarching design decisions. However, when embarking on a new design project, it is pertinent that you take a look into the finer details. Otherwise, you might just risk your rooms looking flat and lacking warmth. Thus, the finer visual details are equally as important as the overarching ones.
Instead, try to take a look at the big picture and impart equal attention towards each distinct element that makes up your space. One of these important elements is texture. Texture can be a powerful tool in design that serves to add the finishing touch and helps bring the room together. This smaller detail is often forgotten, especially by the layman. However, texture should actually be a detail that is on your mind when you shop for furniture and accessories.
It can be difficult to begin playing around with texture if you’ve never thought about it before. So, before you run out on your next big décor adventure, take some time to read through these tips in order to turn your interior from missing something to must-see.
What is texture?
Texture is not that difficult to understand. Technically, it is the property and characteristic (in other words, the feel, appearance and consistency) of a surface. However, in interior design, texture often refers to pieces that have a tactile quality that makes them stand out from their surroundings. In the parlance of design, texture can come from a variety of sources, ranging from soft fabrics and textiles with flowing movement, to hard materials like wood and stone that impart a sturdiness and ruggedness. In essence, any touchable surface can contribute some textural quality to your space.
Getting the basics right
If you’re not sure where to start, consider adding texture to your home through incorporation of fabrics and textiles. These pieces are easier to work with and are usually smaller, more versatile items such as cushions and throws. Even if they don’t fit into a certain space, they can be moved around from room to room and can even be replaced at a later date if you want a quick update to your space.
Soft furnishings can make a big impact in any space, especially when added in a selection of textures. For example, one of the trendiest textures is that of animal fur or faux fur. From fluffly sheepskin-like cushions to cowhide rugs, these pieces can add warmth and coziness to your home. In addition, these textural pieces stand out and draw your eye to wherever they are placed.
If you have the budget for it, rugs are a simple texture creator. Placing a large rug that spans your room can act as a focal point that brings your décor pieces together. Don’t think that a fluffy or furry piece is the only choice. Smoother rugs that are woven or knitted can be just as tactile of a choice. The key is to play around with a combination of different textures, for example, combining silk cushions with a heavily upholstered sofa, in order to add intriguing visual interest and contrast.
Layering skills are essential
Texture is all about layering. While adding key textural pieces like a statement rug or a upholstered sofa can go a long way, you need to combine a multitude of textural elements in order to really achieve that edited and chic interior design style.
A good way to start is with the living room sofa. Start with the largest textural piece (the sofa) and add on accessories in varying textures. This could be silk cushions or even a velvet throw. You can do the same thing, but on a smaller scale, with smaller pieces of furniture. For example, if you have a nice wooden armchair, think about adding some soft furnishings around it until your space feels more complete. Be sure to run a trial-and-error style test in order to find out how you can add multiple textures together in a way that works best for you and for the room that you are decorating.
Refrain from using too many similar textures
Less is more is certainly an adage that rings true in the case of texture. While textural elements are important finishing touches to your space, remember not to go overboard with too many textures. While it’s a good idea to incorporate a variation of sensations ranging from hard to soft to rough to smooth, try not to have multiples of each (unless of course, the multiples are in pieces like cushions or bedside tables, which normally number more than one). However, that’s not to say that you need to have cushions that are all similar textures. Sometimes, these elements, when done in contrasting textures, can also add more interest.