"We love..."

Texture!

I always think in terms of "depth and distance" when I'm decorating a space, be it a private room or a commercial space. The way perspectives can be played with using colour and form, has always fascinated me, and I love how I can change the fundamental feel of a room...


 by using both to highlight (and create) certain features, while at the same time making others recede. It's probably a power thing...

So where does texture fit in? Well, for me its a subtle but very important part of that "power play" of bringing attention to chosen objects. It's a way of adding another layer to the design: after all, good designing is a play of layers, like an onion...but hopefully without the tears! Using texture helps to creates those layers, highlights the design, and can be used on just about every surface there is. Think crown moldings...that's a form of “architectural texture”. You're adding form and interest, and because it's usually mono-coloured, the form of the molding is allowed to plays its part in a very subtle manner.

The French loved using stretched fabric to cover walls, not only as a way to add pattern in a "soft" manner, but adding warmth and, believe it or not, a quite decent 1^st level acoustic insulation. This “wadding” of the walls is, yes you guessed it, another way to add texture. Blinds and drapes also, and the more traditional "vehicles" for bringing texture into your home: furniture coverings, throws and cushions...and artwork.

Not forgetting rugs & carpets. Think of it as floor art! Wonderful with pattern and colour, and just as gorgeous without. I often use neutral coloured area rugs that add “depth” without too much colour or pattern, either with a sculptured design, or less structured, like sheepskin, or deep pile (I'll give you some ideas, as we approach Spring, for lighter-weight alternatives).

The good thing about these“accessories” is that you can add to your existing decorative scheme without breaking the bank. Because pieces are of a more manageable size they become, hopefully, more easily affordable. But don't always constrict yourself to ready-made, you can get pieces of fabric, rugs, blankets, old coats (think battered leathers & suedes...and fur) made up into throws and cushions for very reasonable prices if you shop around. The resulting "eclectic mix" will add lots of layers to your room, and make a great topic of conversation when friends come round.

So get creative and start thinking of how you can introduce extra softness, warmth, depth and interest to your room with lots of  lovely, subtle texture.