Texture is a design element which is generally overlooked when decorating a home. However it has the ability to add a powerful, albeit subtle dimension to a room’s interior. In fact, it is one of the secret tools which are used by the professionals to really make an impression on a space.

The word texture refers to how the surface of an object feels. This implies that texture is merely a tactile consideration. However, when you see something which feels rough, even if you don’t directly touch it, your mind still recalls all of the times in the past when you have touched rough objects, and in a small way you relive those experiences. This means that texture has an effect not only on the way a room feels, but also on the way it looks. 

Using texture allows you to add another whole dimension to a space. No longer confined to visual elements such as line and color, now you can actually determine the way the space will feel to your visitors. By branching out to use this new device you are able create an impression in a whole new way, making your artistic design that much richer.

One of the basic principles of using texture has to do with weight. Rough, coarse textures tend to make an object feel heavier, while smoother textures will make it feel lighter. In this way a polished white marble floor will feel lighter than hardwood paneling, even though it is in actuality much heavier.

One common use of texture is to add interest to a space which has boring, monochrome colors. This is one of the underlying principles of a shabby chic decorative style, where everything is painted the same, and texture is used to create contrast. In such a design, off white walls are often adorned with elegant moldings, textured finishes, and are complimented by whicker and rattan, also painted white.

Contemporary styles are bolder with their use of texture. This is evidenced by modern decorative trends which place rough unfinished brick next to stainless steal, and which couple silk screens with concrete blocks.

While texture is a relatively advanced decorative tool, you shouldn’t be afraid of it. Mix and match texture with colors to determine which couples best compliment one another. If you have trouble, you can look to historic decorating styles to give you guidelines as to how to proceed.