This Is the Texture You’re About to See Everywhere in 2024, According to Designers
Searching for the secret to layering your home without adding more clutter? Fluting is the answer. Originally found in ancient Greek architecture and revived in the Art Deco era, these ribbed grooves have been everywhere lately — and with good reason. Fluting is a versatile and adaptive addition you can easily squeeze into your home, whether via architecture and millwork, or on smaller surfaces, like a cool kitchen sink, the base of coffee tables, and glassware. I’ve even seen this technique applied at design fairs and showhouses from Milan to New York City.
Similar to the obsession with all-bouclé-everything or patinated finishes, designers are also gravitating toward textures that don’t overwhelm a space, which helps explain fluting’s current popularity. “A fluted material feels fluid and sophisticated and allows texture to be incorporated in new applications, including ribbed glass and millwork,” says Dan Mazzarini, principal and creative director of BHDM Design and ARCHIVE by Dan Mazzarini.
“Ribbing always feels a little deluxe,” adds Peter Spalding, CCO and co-founder of designer marketplace Daniel House Club. “A sense of decadence has been in for several years now, and ribbed pieces reinforce this narrative without veering into ornate territory.”
According to Mazzarini, this texture transcends trends as well, as ribbed and fluted materials keep coming back into the spotlight for their timeless elegance. Spalding agrees. “I think ribbing will always be with us,” he says. “We will see its prevalence on things like bar fronts, credenzas, and light fixtures fairly soon.”
Wondering where to start with styling ribbed materials? Check out the fluted furniture and decor picks below that add visual interest and a tactile touch to any space.
