The Importance of Texture in Interior Design
When one sees a new or a unique surface, the first thing that comes to one’s mind is to touch and experience what it feels like. We learn from our sense of touch. We make judgments based on touch, and our emotions are altered by the sense of touch we feel. The provision to communicate this sense of touch is often overlooked in our designs. In design parlance, we use the term ‘texture’ for this. It means, how a thing feels physically. Interior design enthusiasts and professionals always stress on making the right choices of materials, colors, and furniture for an interior space. So much attention is given to those elements and for some reason, the texture seems to always be an afterthought when it comes to interiors.
Texture plays a huge role in creating the mood of a space, impacting its visual as well as tactile appeal. Just as color impacts our emotions, texture personalizes our homes and affects our moods in a similar manner. ‘Pattern’ always goes along with the term texture. Imagine if we could feel every pattern by touching it. Would it not enhance our perception of the pattern? The texture doesn’t always have to be felt. Just by the existence of a texture, we register a perception in our brains. Sometimes they can also be implied textures rather than an actual one. Implied texture is our perception of what a texture might feel like. We often make assumptions about the texture of a material based on our memory of touching similar surfaces. Although we are surrounded by a feast of dazzling textures each and every day, we don’t give a tremendous amount of thought as to how these elements affect our mood.
In interior design often the texture is what gives a room a special quality that visitors can’t tell exactly. They can’t pinpoint what is creating the emotion, but they can sense the emotion the texture creates. Conscious and compatible conflict is sometimes the key to using texture in interior design. The “look” and “feel” of a room can be transformed with texture, as well as the materials used to create it. Smooth textures reflect light to make space seem larger and lighter. Mirrors, glossy-finish metallic elements, and lustrous wall paint can have the same effect. These materials can make colors seem deeper and more saturated as well. Rough textures absorb light are perfect for creating a cozy and comfortable feel. For instance, floor rugs made of animal hide, fabric or wool make colors seem more subtle and refined. Unpolished stone or wood, frosted glass, and matte-finish metal or paint will also make space seem warmer. Our perception of texture is also influenced by the textures of adjacent surfaces, our viewing distance, as well as the lighting applied. For example, rough surfaces seem more textured next to smooth surfaces, when viewed up close, and when grazed with light. Below are three instances where textures can be used in different themes of interior design.
Rustic Interiors – The key here is to play up natural elements that absorb light, such as wood, stone, and leather. Hardwood floors, cowhide couches or armchairs, large sofa cushions, and soft rugs help make the space warm and welcoming.
Luxurious Style – If one wants a glamorous interior, rich colors and textures have to be used that both capture and reflect light. Soft velvet upholstery creates a wonderful sense of opulence, and leather rugs add smooth sophistication to any space.
Modern Design – This style is defined by simple color schemes, reflective textures and glossy materials that make space seem more open and airy. Layered rugs paired with metallic elements can help you capture a sleek and modern look.