Interior Design 101: Playing With Textures

July 17, 2025

Texture Ideas for Interior Design

Home furniture in Dover, NH

When you walk into a beautifully designed room, you might not always notice what makes the space so special at first glance. Often, it’s the careful interplay of textures that gives the room its inviting charm and polished feel. Texture, in interior design, adds depth and dimension, creating spaces that resonate with warmth, sophistication, or even a touch of whimsy. Whether you're redecorating your entire home or just refreshing a particular space, understanding how to use textures can transform your interiors from simple to stunning.


At Holmwood's Furniture and Design Center, we not only provide a wide range of home furniture but also help our clients explore new ways to bring their homes to life with textures that speak to their personality and style. Here’s your ultimate guide to playing with textures in interior design.

Why Texture is a Game-Changer in Interior Design

Texture is more than just how something feels; it’s also about how it looks. Rough, smooth, glossy, soft, or matte textures can create visual interest and engage your sense of touch. Here’s why it matters so much in home design:

  • Adds Depth: Flat, one-dimensional spaces feel lifeless. Texture introduces layers and creates an impression of depth, making your interiors visually engaging.
  • Creates Balance: Mixing different textures can help balance a space, particularly if you're working with a monochromatic or neutral color palette.
  • Conveys Mood: Texture subtly dictates the atmosphere of a room. Smooth finishes like glass and leather feel modern and luxurious, while soft fabrics and natural materials feel cozy and warm.
  • Invites Interaction: By incorporating varied textures, you create spaces that invite people to touch and interact with the elements, enhancing the sensory experience.

Mixing and Matching Textures Like a Pro

To make textures work harmoniously within a room, you need to know how to combine them effectively. Furniture, fabrics, and decor all contribute to your overall design texture narrative.

1. Layer Your Furniture

Your furniture pieces are the foundation of the room’s texture. Combine smooth and tactile surfaces for balance. For instance:

  • Pair a sleek leather sofa with a chunky knit throw blanket.
  • Combine a glossy wooden coffee table with upholstered seating featuring a matte linen finish.

At Holmwood’s, we offer a diverse selection of home furniture, from plush sectionals to classic wood finishes, allowing you to layer effectively.

2. Play with Fabrics

Fabrics are one of the easiest ways to introduce texture into a space. Think beyond the basics and layer multiple materials in the same room:

  • Throw Pillows: Mix velvet, cotton, and woven designs to create contrast.
  • Rugs: Lay a soft, patterned area rug over hardwood floors or layer two rugs of different textures for added depth.
  • Curtains: Opt for textured drapery, like linen or velour, to create drama.

3. Incorporate Natural Elements

Natural materials automatically add texture and bring the outdoors in. Elements like wood, stone, and plants can become focal points of a room or provide subtle grounding effects:

  • Use a reclaimed wood dining table for a rustic touch, paired with smooth glass or leather accents.
  • Incorporate greenery and plants for a soft, organic feel in stark or minimal designs.

4. Contrasting Textures for Visual Appeal

Contrast is key to making textures stand out. Pair opposites to generate intrigue:

  • Match sleek, metallic elements with soft, fluffy textiles for a balanced elegance.
  • Use contrasting furniture finishes, such as a polished marble-topped table with a distressed wood base.

5. Don't Overcrowd

While layering is crucial, overdoing texture can make a space feel chaotic. Limit yourself to three or four types of textures within a single room. Holmwood’s furniture experts can guide you in creating a cohesive look that enhances, rather than overwhelms, your interiors.


Holmwood’s Expertise in Furniture and Design

When it comes to implementing textures, choosing the right home furniture makes all the difference. At Holmwood’s Furniture and Design Center, our vast collection includes pieces that seamlessly combine style and texture. From plush sectionals and intricately carved wood tables to sleek modern decor, we provide everything you need to enhance your interiors. Plus, our design experts are here to guide you through mixing and matching textures that suit your taste and lifestyle.

Create a Home That’s Full of Life

Texture brings your interiors to life, transforming plain spaces into dynamic, engaging environments. Whether you're refreshing a single room or redesigning your entire home, Holmwood's Furniture and Design Center is here to help. Explore our wide range of home furniture and design solutions to bring your textured vision to life.


Contact us or visit our showroom today to get started on your design adventure!