Throughout the world the look of bare walls and clean surfaces was been seen as the cutting edge of interior design. However in recent years designers have rediscovered pattern and texture.
Wallpaper is Back
Painted walls and ceiling has been the mainstay of interior design for a while now. The introduction of bold colours and feature walls was the first sign that people wanted more interest in their homes. The next leap has been the increased use of wall paper to add drama and impact. Big bold patterns of high contrasting colour or subtle use of tone on tone to create texture. Wallpapering only one wall is a also an option. A bold pattern behind the bed makes a great statement without taking over the whole room.
Curtains for Drama
Curtains are another way of adding pattern and introducing more colour into a room. Strong bold curtains can help create two different looks. Either as a colour highlight in the room during the day when they are open, or a more dominant almost feature wall effect when drawn at night. For maximum effect use full length curtains to the floor, as stopping just below the sill makes the room look cut off.
Different headings will create different looks and affect the amount of fabric required. Curtain track can be made to look invisible if made or painted in the wall colour or, by using chunky metal rods they can be stand out and be part of the design .
Fabric for Floors and Furnishings
A rug brings more texture into a room and is another way of adding more pattern if the room still feels too plain. As a rug can be quite small relative to the size of the room it is a way to inexpensively have a bit of fun or be bold with a colour or design.
Layers of Texture
Even if curtains and furnishing don’t have patterns just using them in a room helps. Full length curtains in the same colour at the walls still will be interesting to look at. A rug in the same colour but with a deep pile or with a long woolly texture will also make the room look layered.
Other ways to add texture are
- Pile up the couch with cushions
- Have a floral display in an attractive vase
- Stack books and magazines on the coffee table or side board
- Artwork. Both freestanding and hanging.
By adding these not only is texture being added individual personallity is also included.
Debra DeLorenzo - Debra DeLorenzo is a fully qualified bathroom and kitchen designer (CKD/CBDNZ) and has been in the design industry since 1996. She has won ...
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