Decoration Inspiration: Rooms that Use Texture to Add a Little Magic

Texture is, in my opinion, one of the most powerful and overlooked elements of interior design. A nubby blanket or a fluffy rug or just a few plants can instantly add life, depth and warmth to a room that’s lacking a certain something. Here are five excellent examples of rooms that use texture to add a little magic.

Above: If you look closely you’ll notice that there’s not a lot of color to the living room in Mike and Kate’s Chicago home, but they’ve used texture to great effect. The plants, the rug, and the ceiling medallion all add visual interest, making this a pleasing, balanced and even warm space, despite all the white.

The linen tablecloths and chair covers in this dining room, from Thuss+Farrell, via Desire to Inspire, catch the light beautifully and encourage the eye to linger. Linen is enjoying a bit of a moment right now, and it’s not hard to see why: its invitingly rumpled texture creates a sort of perfect imperfection that enlivens any room.

Adding a little texture is a great way to keep a modern interior from feeling too spare or cold. Gorgeous Moroccan rugs and an oversized plant add just the right amount of warmth to a minimally styled space from Another Ballroom.

I love how the bits of texture in this dining room from Coco Lapine Design serve to ground the room and create a perfect balance between light, airy and open and cozy, inviting and warm.

It’s hard to look at this bedroom from Wit & Delight and look at anything but that delightful blanket — it really draws the eye. Give this a try at home — try adding a pillow or throw or plant to a room that lacks a little pizazz, and watch the magic happen.