PPG Paints
Layering fabrics on a bed is one way to incorporate more texture.
This lovely bedroom photo, courtesy of PPG Paints, boasts a comfy, inviting bedroom. Why do you think that this room is so appealing? It’s the texture in the room that adds a sense of coziness.
Let’s start with the bed in our photo. Several layers of plush bedding bring an immediate sense of being pampered. Visually, the textured fabric on the toss cushions and bedspread add interest to the space. Physically, who wouldn’t want to lounge in that bed just a little longer on a Saturday morning? This is a room where you can unwind. There is nothing pretentious about it.
Texture is an important and interesting facet of the decor. For those who like slick, modern spaces, texture may be less desirable but the majority of us like its visual and tactile comfort, especially in a bedroom.
Another element in our feature room that adds visual interest through texture are the wicker furniture pieces. They bring a casual, relaxed air to any room. The area rug is another important addition. Most area rugs add instant subtle texture to a room and provide comfort underfoot. Area rugs are a great way to bring in pattern, colour and texture and are a good investment if you have hard surface flooring. No one wants to step out of bed barefoot onto a cold surface in the morning.
Plants add texture to a room and are sometimes forgotten for the useful decorating tool that they can be. The plant in our feature photo is strategically placed in a tall stand (again, wicker) in front of the window for maximum visual effect. The backlighting from the window shows the plant (and its texture) off in all of its glory. Even the dried arrangement on the bedside table adds texture. Think about where your houseplants are situated to see if you can put them in a better location to showcase them. If you can’t be bothered with live plants, consider imitation plants and flowers. They are a lot more realistic than those of the past and can add lots of affordable colour and texture to your home without much fuss.
A great way to add visual texture to a space is through lace curtains. The natural light filters through the soft pattern providing a lovely vignette. If you prefer a more tailored look consider wooden blinds either in a natural wood grain or painted white. Formal drapes or even simple curtain panels in the right pattern and colour can really warm up a room while providing visual drama.
Wood in all its natural beauty adds warmth and texture to a room. Whether you add in painted driftwood accents or redo your floors with hardwood, keep wooden elements in mind if you want to visually warm up a space. Wooden wall treatments can create focal points in a room and add a sense of earthy drama. Visualize a wall of weathered barn board behind the head of the bed or on a fireplace wall in the family room for instance.
Layering fabrics, as on the bed in our photo, is a great way to add texture to a room. Consider recovering your headboard with batting and fabric to add an additional layer of softness. Decorative furniture throws on top of upholstered furniture topped with sumptuous toss cushions will fit the bill in a family room. In the dining room, tablecloths with table runners and fabric placemats make for a decorative dining experience for special occasions.
Textured wallpaper is another great textural element and is an easy change down the road when you update your decor again. Stacks of books on a shelf or freestanding on the floor (perhaps used as a side table) can be a fun textural addition to a room. Fabric lampshades with embossed patterns are an easy textural addition. Frame a piece of nubby, patterned fabric as artwork. Add in jute area rugs for that earthy, casual beach look. Wrap small items, like lamp bases or candleholders, with jute twine. Wallpaper the shelves or inside back on an open bookcase with textured wallpaper to soften the look.
If you find that your decor falls a little flat and feels static, add in some toss cushions, wicker accents, a furniture throw or two to add textural comfort to your space.
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