Amongst the common design elements, we often overlook texture in favor of color and pattern. Texture is one of the key design elements in creating an interesting interior design. Along with color and pattern, texture can bring life and interest to both interior design and furniture design.
Accessories like area rugs and pillows are an easy way to bring more texture into a room. An area rug doesn’t have to be a deep shag to add texture to a smooth wood or tile floor. Even a flat weave rug has texture. Besides rugs and accessories, furniture is a great way to add texture.
Woven furniture, like the contemporary chairs pictured here, has tons of natural texture. A single woven stool or ottoman can bring texture to a room. You don’t need an entire suite of wicker furniture to make an impact; a single piece can make a big design statement. Mixing materials of furniture is a great way to add texture. Wood, glass, chrome and upholstered pieces all have different surfaces and different textures.
Upholstery is another way to add texture. Soft cotton velvets, chenilles, and wools all have a subtle texture. Layer these with a knit throw or silk pillow for additional textures.
Leather is another beautiful texture to have on furniture. Think with your fingers when it comes to bringing in more texture to your space. Imagine how it would feel to touch the piece. Creating a space that is both visually and tactile appealing means you have created an interesting room.
Bathrooms are typically rooms that are fairly mono-textured; things tend to be really sleek and smooth (think porcelain, granite, and glass – all common materials for vanities, toilets, tubs, and more). Even tiles, which line the floors of most bathrooms, are fairly flat and smooth. When clients improve their bathrooms, I typically recommend throwing in something that stands out with a unique texture – personally, I love wicker woven wastebaskets and a small shag rug or “landing pad.” I also like implementing some kind of plant life in a vase – not only do they add texture, but they also add colors, dimensions, and smells to a bathroom. Pumice stones are great for decoration as well, adding a unique texture to your countertop (and obviously, they can be used to help exfoliate your skin as well). I do not recommend using a “textured” countertop unless using naturally-cut stone, as most “textured” materials (wood is the one most people ask me about) tend to absorb lots of moisture and warp the furniture.