Tantalizing Textures

The interest in texture in home design has experienced a rebirth of sorts as more consumers and designers are embracing innovative designs to create awe-inspiring and memorable wall, flooring and furniture treatments.

According to Kristen Cross, designer at Dream House Dream Kitchens, a mix of textures have always been important in interior design, but this increased dramatically in recent years with the onset of the pandemic.

“As we spent more time in our homes, people found themselves to be more focused on creating tailored surroundings instead of the status quo,” Cross says.“Adding textures into your home will not only add interest, comfort and functionality, but it will also set the tone to create a space that is uniquely you.”

Today, Cross and the design team at Dream House Dream Kitchens are seeing strong trends in using unique textures to enhance spaces of all types, including handmade tiles; wall treatments such as wallpaper, wall paneling, brushed/hand- applied finishes; and natural materials, such as boucle and rattan.

“Layering and contrast is the secret weapon of interior design,” Cross says.“To incorporate this into your own home, start with your foundation of furniture and flooring and layer in textures with area rugs, window treatments, pillows and other soft finishes. Then, create contrast by mixing in materials such as wood, metal and glass — otherwise the room will feel flat.”

It’s also important to remember when integrating textures into a home that texture and color are interdependent. As Cross explains, rougher textures will absorb light and make the color feel warmer, while smoother textures will reflect light back into the room and make it feel lighter.

“It is important to keep in mind when selecting a wall color or treatment to balance it out with other finishes within a space to make it feel harmonious,” Cross says.

When choosing a darker wall color, it’s crucial to add textural contrast and light- reflective materials. For lighter wall colors, incorporating more visual and tactile textures is essential to prevent the room from feeling flat.

The team at Dream House Dream Kitchens use texture to help homeowners define a space. For example, if a client wants a modern space, a designer may incorporate sleek materials such as polished chrome, “ shiny marble, hardware with clean lines and a simple color palette.

“Whereas if a client wants a relaxed, cozy space, we would incorporate natural materials such as reclaimed wood, stone and matte textiles with an earthy color palette,” Cross says.“We also use texture to create visual weight in areas we want to draw the eye towards, and contrasting textures to help certain elements stand out more than others — creating focal points.”