The Power of Texture: Adding Depth to Your Interior Design
I search for the realness, the real feeling of a subject, all the texture around it... I always want to see the third dimension of something... I want to come alive with the object." — Andrew Wyeth
Introduction:
Texture not only plays a significant role when designing a space but also encourages an emotional response. What we perceive can create various moods in accordance with this design element through depth and dimension leaving a lasting impression that lies somewhere between warmth and curiosity. Highlighting texture in interiors allows this contrast of emotion to settle somewhere in the middle creating a new sense of life within a space.
When deciding upon texture, think of the ways in which each type affects an emotional response.
A smooth piece of fabric can create a sense of calm, velvet and fur encourage pleasure, cotton and linens evoke reassurance, rough textures develop dependability, geometric pattern within the texture elicits activity, wood and stone bring rise to safety.
TACTILE VS VISUAL TEXTURE
There are two types of texture, including:
Real (tactile, with a physically detectable surface) — 3D
Simulated (visual/implied textures that feel smooth) — 2D
TACTILE TEXTURE
Tactile texture is physically touching a surface and feeling the complexion of an item matching its appearance. The soft silk piece of fabric, the shaggy rug, the raised paint on an original artwork, all influence the feeling of solace and wellbeing within a space and invite a sense of earthiness to penetrate into the surroundings.
Ways you can add tactile texture into an interior space.
— Embossed wallpapers
— Painted textural surfaces
— Fur
— Velvet
— Bark
— Sandpaper
— Pillow coverings
— An original artwork
VISUAL TEXTURE
Creating the illusion of a raised surface, visual texture creates an equal sight of depth, interest and style without the connected sense of touch. Some opt for visual texture for a variety of reasons, some including a lower price point and accessibility of natural materials. Examples include a marble finish, wallpaper coverings and vinyl wooden flooring.
10 ways you can add visual texture into an interior space.
— Laminates
— Art images and prints
— Photographs
— Patterns
— Wallpapers
— Marble
— Glass
— Vinyl flooring
DEPTH & DIMENSION
Introducing contrast and layering of textures can breathe life into a space, igniting fascination to help conjure up a captivating environment. For example, pair a rough natural wooden side table, a light shaggy rug, a deep brown leather couch and a metal floor lamp, with a sleek throw and some modern handmade clay pieces for a visual spectacle.
The options are endless.
KEY POINTS & TIPS
Creating contrast — utilising various types of texture creates a balance within a room.
Interpretation — We interpret texture through both sight and touch.
Lighting — the way in which the light falls upon texture influences its perception and tells us so much about its quality.
Layering textures — as the key to achieving a wealthy result, layering texture creates variety and interest. All objects have texture and can add interest, warmth and depth to a space.
To Conclude:
Texture is a powerful tool in interior design which can be applied to various elements within a space. Whether you are crafting your ideal living space or renovating anew, it’s essential to consider your intention for the overall look and feel of the space as well as the emotional response you aim to carry off. Creating a balance of texture avoids the space feeling flat and lifeless with little texture and overstimulated by too much. Understanding the way texture plays a role emotionally and how it can evoke various responses can help us in utilising this wonderful design tool, opening up endless possibilities which exude depth, sensation and character.
I regard texture similar to the function of taste buds in our mouths. But in a visual form. Texture does create a specific flavour which affects our senses. — Adamo Macri
