Texture is a vital, though often overlooked aspect of interior design. 

It is what brings depth, richness and visual weight to a space. A room may be beautiful – in terms of colour scheme, décor and furniture – but without a variety of both tactile and visual textures, it will feel hollow and somehow lacking. 

But what exactly is texture in relation to interior design, and how do you incorporate it into your home for maximum effect? Read the following guide to discover all you need to know about texture, including how it can bring your interior designs to life.

What is texture in interior design?

As you might expect, ‘texture’ refers to the materials used to create and decorate a space. 

A room that consists of similar materials – various woods or stones, for example – will feel one dimensional and struggle to make a visual impact. The layering of different materials, however, as well as colours and shapes, will invite both touch and attention, helping you create a striking atmosphere, which may be modern or classic, cosy or elegant, depending on the textures used.

Tactile and visual textures

Interior designers refer to two types of texture: tactile and visual.

Tactile texture refers to how the space feels physically; in other words, how you inhabit it. For example, a living space full of soft furnishings and smooth wood will be a warm, inviting place you can sink into, while glossy surfaces such as shining leather, metal, and glass make for a more formal space.

Visual texture refers to the atmosphere of the room. The materials used to construct and decorate a room may not invite touch – light fittings, wallpaper, flooring and carpets being an example of this – but they create a mood, one which will be richer if it is created using a diverse range of materials, linked by colour or tone.

How to incorporate texture into your interiors

Decide on the ‘feel’ you want a room to have and choose materials which will help you create it. 

Rougher, courser textures like reclaimed wood, woven fabrics, and terracotta hold a lot of visual weight and make for a cosier, warmer aesthetic. Smooth and shiny textures, on the other hand, such as chrome, polished stone, and silk, give off a contemporary feel. 

Whichever mood appeals to you, you can incorporate it into your interior in a variety of ways:

Architectural details

The architecture of a room will often dictate the design, closing off some avenues while opening up others. A room with lots of interesting architectural details, like crown moulding or original flooring, will match better with more classic materials, as opposed to ultra-modern ones. 

Furniture

Both the colour and feel of the furniture will have a huge impact on the mood of a room, and can be combined with accessories like throws, cushions, and table coverings for an arresting statement.

Floor and wall coverings

Rugs and wall art are two of the easiest and most effective ways to bring texture and visual interest to a room. They may also be used to inspire or tie together a colour scheme.

Accessories

If you think a room feels a little flat, but you cannot afford to refurbish it, don’t fret. Changing some of the smaller décor can make all the difference. Cushion covers, light shades, plants, and window covers can all be added and altered at a relatively small cost, adding much needed variety to an otherwise flat space.

Light

Light itself can be used to warm up a room, particularly natural light, which changes with the time of day and the seasons. If you have access to natural light, maximise it with lighter window coverings and some reflective surfaces.

Texture is what gives a space its visual power. Use it to add depth to your décor. 

If you’re looking for your dream North East home, you’re in the right place. Explore the stunning developments from Homes by Esh right here on our website, and book your appointment with us here.