Texture. It is a buzzword you hear a lot from designers and an important element in determining the look and feel of your living space, but what does “adding texture” really mean? And how can you infuse texture into your decorating scheme without breaking the bank? Surprisingly, it is not as hard as you may think. In fact, it can be one of the easiest ways to take your home decor from flat to fabulous with minimal effort and investment.

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In literal terms, “texture” refers to the surface of objects and how they look or feel to the touch. When it comes to decorating, however, adding texture refers to the use of furniture, textiles, objects and finishes in a variety of materials to create dimension, add visual interest and provide tactile variation to a room design. Without it, a room can feel flat, uninviting and unfinished. Put another way, while colors give you an immediate sense of space, it is the texture that gives it some soul and personality.

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So whether you are moving into a new place, need to stage your existing home for a quick sale or have finally decided it is time to decorate that neglected living room, do not overlook the opportunity to infuse some texture into your design plans. Sure, you will be thinking about the style you want to achieve, the colors you want to incorporate and the furniture you will need to buy, but having some contrast in every room is essential, and texture is what provides the balance and depth that encourages continued interest and enjoyment. Just think, if everything is too similar, our eyes have trouble focusing on any one thing. This is particularly true if you are working within a color palette where the shades are similar. Using texture will make sure your most important elements pop.

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Understanding the important role texture plays in any good design scheme is just the beginning. If you are not a professionally trained interior designer, putting it into practice can be intimidating. But it doesn’t have to be. Here are a few ways that anyone can easily start using texture to elevate their home decor.

  • Exploit Architectural Elements: If you are lucky enough to have crown molding, chair rails, wainscoting, tray ceilings or other architectural gems in your room, make them a focal point. If not, try adding a simple crown molding – it is an understated textural element that will take your room to the next level. Or give plain old white walls dimension and texture by adding wainscoting and picture molding at waist level or higher.
  • Add Floor and Wall Coverings: An easy and important way to layer and add texture to a space is with area rugs. Not only do they visually define a room, but they also add a layer of comfort and warmth. Try using rugs made of natural materials like sisal or soft, hand-woven Persian rugs to add texture and interest. Wall coverings can be another great way to add texture. From traditional choices like grasscloth and embossed wallpaper to more contemporary options like shiplap accent walls, wood wall panels, tile, plaster, painted focal walls and much more.
  • Bring in Greenery: Adding natural elements to a space makes it feel more like a home and less like a showroom. Plants add a natural layer of added dimension to a space. Often plants are the missing element in a room. They can be used as decorative centerpieces on coffee tables or brought in as full-sized potted plants. Sometimes just adding a small plant to a table makes a big difference. Plus, having plants around has been shown to improve your mood, and they purify the air – a win-win.
  • Choose Furniture Wisely: One way to layer and add texture to a space is through the use of smaller furniture items. Pieces like end tables, ottomans, armchairs and coffee tables can be a great way to bring in a variety of textures and materials. Select pieces that have different physical and visual textures. Try mixing pieces like a leather ottoman with a wood upholstered armchair. Mixing materials keeps the space from feeling stale and allows for a beautifully dynamic room.
  • Use Decorative Accessories: Incorporating carefully curated accessories is an important step in creating a layered and complete space. They add color, texture, warmth, character and personality to a room. Consider adding baskets, pillows in different patterns and fabrics, ceramic bowls and dishes, mirrors, books, trays and photos. All of these items are small but effective ways of layering different colors and materials.
  • Mix Textiles: One of the easiest and quickest ways to add layers of texture and comfort into a space is by using a mix of textiles in everything from window treatments and throw pillows to blankets, bedding and furniture upholstery. This can entail experimenting with mixing fabrics such as leather, velvet, silk, boucle, wool, cotton and linen, depending on the feel you want to create. Choose contrasting colors, patterns and textures to add visual interest.

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