Texture's Allure | Textured and Layered Home Decor

Adding layers of interest (or depth) to your home's decor creates something that's rich and eminently fascinating. But creating depth doesn't mean making a room bigger. It means filling the space you have with objects and materials that engage your senses—basically, layers of texture, which, in turn, make a space cozy and livable. Here are typical textures found in every home:

PAINT
Introducing color on your walls immediately adds dimension to a room and can highlight your timbers beautifully. Also consider faux finishes. room. 

STONE
Stone introduces texture visually with its unique vein and color and also comes in styles that vary to the touch. Use this sturdy material on kitchen countertops, fireplace surrounds and mantels, the entry or great room floors and even coffee and end tables.

TILE
Some of the most popular places for tile are the backsplash behind the stove, on the kitchen island, as table insets and for kitchen and entryway flooring. The variety of colors and textures immediately attract the senses by adding instant depth and dimension.

HARD SURFACING METAL
More often than not, these are smooth surfaced and work best in the kitchen and bathroom. Laminates are great when you're looking for a pattern to add depth. Corian comes in an array of colors and is incredibly durable and smooth to touch. Stainless steel adds a clean, modern look to any room with the double advantage of introducing reflection and shine.

VENEER
Think coffee table, credenza, dining room table and even flooring for the entry. A well-crafted piece of wood furniture with inlaid veneer often is one of the most gorgeous things you can put in a room. The grain and cut of the wood veneer add flavor and dimension.

FABRIC
Seating, window treatments, throws, pillows and bedding are the best opportunities to introduce texture through fabric. When choosing fabrics for bedding, seating and pillows, always test them out on the more-sensitive areas of skin (undersides of arms and face) to ensure comfort.

GREENERY
This is one of the easiest ways to introduce color, depth and life into your space. Greenery can go anywhere in the home and immediately bring the outdoors in along with the natural textures of our environment.

Photo by Cindy Thiede