When it comes to giving our homes a makeover, it is only natural to start with the colour scheme and layout of furniture. If we are switching out some of the furniture, it is also important to ensure that our new choices are functional and suit our needs. However, not many people delve into the design of their homes much more than that, the way that an interior designer might. This results in them overlooking one of the easiest ways to add visual interest and depth to a space – incorporating different textures.
Here are some of the most effective ways to use texture to bring character and comfort to your home.
Rugs and carpets
Most people are aware of the power of a rug to make a room more inviting, which is why they are so popular the world over. They not only add texture, but have a number of functional uses too, such as absorbing sound and protecting your feet against cold floors. They can obviously add a lot of visual interest as they come in many different patterns, but a modern alternative for those who dislike patterned rugs is to layer several plain rugs made from different materials on top of one another.
Textured walls
Not much in nature is perfectly smooth, which is why a home with a lot of perfectly smooth surfaces can feel a little jarring. On the other hand walls are big spaces and to fill them entirely with detailed patterns can be a bit overwhelming too. A good alternative is to use texture instead, for example by opting for textured wallpapers, wood panelling, or even bare brick. These are subtle enough to remain easy on the eyes while also looking more interesting and appealing than simple paint.
Throws, cushions, and blankets
Adding soft furnishings is an ideal way to add more textures into your home, and the best thing is that you can directly benefit from them by using them. There are so many different fabrics to choose from, from velvet to linen to knitted pieces and more. Like the rugs, it is great to layer a few of these and they can really help create a cosy vibe in your home. They are also a good opportunity to accentuate certain colours .
Rattan furniture
Rattan furniture provides a beautiful, textured alternative to the smooth wooden and plastic furnishings which are common in most homes. It is made from interwoven palm stems and is a common style in tropical climates, so it can instantly create a more exotic feeling inside your home. That is not to say that it stands out, however. Its neutral colour lets it blend into its surroundings easily.
Plants
Plants are an easy and affordable way to add more textural variety into your home. This comes not only from the plants themselves, but also from the pots. These can be woven, wooden, stone, or ceramic. There is also plenty of evidence that plants have a calming effect on people and help increase oxygen levels.
Conclusion
Whether you are giving your bedroom a makeover or just refreshing your living room, incorporating textures the way that interior designers do can help you create the character that you want your home to have.
