Tips for Layering Textures and Styles for Luxury Interiors
Creating a luxurious interior is about more than just selecting expensive furniture and décor As leading interior designers in Devon we truly believe fabulous interiors can be achieved on a reasonable budget.
It’s about creating a harmonious and rich environment through the art of layering textures and styles. Cleverly layering materials and objectives adds depth, interest, and a sophisticated charm to any space.
So, in this blog, we’ll use our 35+ years of expert tips on how to start layering textures and styles to achieve a luxurious interior in your Southwest property, drawing inspiration from our five-star interior design projects and customer reviews.
Understanding the Importance of Layering
Layering textures and styles in interior design involves combining different materials, patterns, and design objects to create a cohesive yet dynamic space. There are of course different ways to approach this principle, depending on the aesthetic you’re hoping to achieve, however this technique will enhance the tactile and visual appeal of a room, making it feel special and thoughtfully curated. Being located in Devon and Somerset we appreciate the vast types of properties in the area and the spectrum of materials that could be considered for beautiful bespoke interior design.
What are the benefits of Layering?
Depth and Dimension: being clever with layering different textures and styles can make a flat space feel more dynamic and engaging.
Creates Visual Interest: Mixing a combination of elements keeps the eye moving, ensuring the space feels rich and full of interest.
Enhances Comfort and Warmth: Different textures, such as soft fabrics and natural materials, can make a room feel cozier and more luxurious.
Reflects Personal Style: Layering allows for a personalised touch, showcasing your unique taste and style. It’s your space after all, so it should feel like you!
Tips for Layering Textures
Where to begin. As we like to do, we’ve shared a few ways to get started below. This is one way of approaching this design discipline but it’s important to note we’d adapt our approach depending on your property and your desired outcome. Not one project at Sue Scammell Interiors is the same, we adapt our skills to your project.
1. Start with a Neutral Base
A neutral base provides a versatile foundation that allows other textures and styles to stand out. Choose neutral colours for walls, large furniture pieces, and floors. This approach creates a calm and cohesive backdrop that can easily accommodate various textures and styles. Allowing you to be more adventurous elsewhere. When we think of neutral it doesn’t have to be white or beige, neutrals come in a spectrum of different colours, and we’d be more than happy to carry out a colour consultation with you to lay those foundations.
2. Mix Textiles
Using a variety of textiles to add softness and richness to the space is important, especially when considered the changes in seasons. Using a mix of materials such as wool, linen, and cotton are very innkeeping with the natural landscape. However, incorporating more luxurious fabrics such a velvet can elevate a space and create that cosy feeling we all long for in the cooler months. A great combination could be, for example, a velvet sofa paired with cotton cushions and a woollen throw, creating a luxurious seating area. Each textile brings a unique texture, contributing to the overall depth, sensory experience and interest of the room.
3. Incorporate Natural Materials
As mentioned, being in the Southwest, Devon and Somerset, we appreciate just how many localised materials are available to us and are inherent in our properties here. Natural materials like wood, stone, and metal add an organic and timeless quality to interiors. Wooden furniture, stone countertops, and metal fixtures can be layered with other textures to create a balanced and luxurious look. The natural variations in these materials add visual interest and a tactile element that enhances the room's richness. The colours also play a key role in the ambience of a room and how it correlates to its natural location and setting within the landscape.
4. Use Rugs to Define Spaces
Rugs are an excellent way to introduce texture and define different areas within a room. Layering rugs can also add a luxurious feel. The are a great way of incorporating new colours to a space or being a focal point within the room. Textures can vary from a low pile to a deep fluffy pile, each detail really makes a different to the aesthetic of the room.
5. Play with Patterns
If you’re looking to create fun and inviting space, mixing patterns can add a playful and sophisticated touch to a room. Pattern is subjective but can also key to achieving particular aesthetics, many are very distinctive to a particular trend or look. Pattern can be incorporated in so many different way and complementary patterns can be used simultaneously through the use of accessories like cushions, throws, and artwork. Being mindful of the colour palette is worth remembering to remain consistent with your theme and to avoid visual clutter. For example, a patterned area rug can be complemented with patterned cushions in similar hues, creating a cohesive yet dynamic look.
6. Add Layered Lighting
Lighting is a crucial element in creating any successful interior landscape. Layering different types of lighting, such as ambient, task, and accent lighting, provides options and allows you to change the mood within a space easily. This is particularly helpful in small rooms or properties where space is limited and perhaps rooms are multifunctional. To enhance the room's textures and overall ambiance try to incorporate centre lights or chandeliers, floor lamps, table lamps, and wall sconces. For an ultimate touch of sophistication consider dimmable lights to adjust the mood according to the time of day and activity.
7. Incorporate Art and Accessories
As designers ourselves we will always be advocates for art and accessories. We believe at Sue Scammell Interiors that Art, in various forms, are essential for adding personality and texture to a space. Layering artwork on walls, using a mix of framed pieces, canvases, and sculptures all add to a layered aesthetic and personalised interior scheme. Accessories such as vases, decorative bowls, personal treasures and books can be used to add texture to shelves and tables. Ensure these elements reflect your personal style and complement the room’s overall design, so you enjoy being in it. If you can source locally, even better!
Tips for Layering Styles
As we mentioned in the introduction to this interior design blog, we are exploring Textures and styles. The appropriate textures to use vary depending on the style or aesthetic you are hoping to achieve. So how do you start layering styles in a cohesive and successful way?
We’ve shared our best interior design tips for your Devon and Somerset homes below, to get you started. Remember we are only an email or phone call away and would love to hear about your project, why not contact us to see how you can utilise our 35+ years experience.
1. Blend Modern and Traditional Elements
Mixing modern and traditional elements can create a timeless and sophisticated look. This is quite apt for properties in the Devon and Somerset where we come across an abundance of period properties that require updating. For example, pair a contemporary sofa with a vintage coffee table, or modern art with classic mouldings. This contrast adds depth and character, making the space feel curated and luxurious.
2. Incorporate Global Influences
We all love talking about our adventures and what better way to provoke a conversation that have a keepsake on show ready to take centre stage. Adding unique and exotic objects to your interiors can be a great place to start. Incorporating elements from different cultures, such as Moroccan rugs, Japanese ceramics, or African masks start building a picture of your interests and the aesthetic you’re drawing interest from. These pieces add richness and tell a story, contributing to the overall ambience of the space.
3. Use a Consistent Colour Palette
A consistent colour palette helps to unify different styles and elements within a space. Choose a key colour and then layer in complementary shades and accents to enhance the aesthetic. This approach ensures that even if you mix various styles, the overall look remains cohesive and harmonious, making the space feel high quality.
4. Balance Old and New
Balancing old and new pieces can create a layered and lived-in look that feels both luxurious and comfortable. Combine antique or vintage items with modern furniture and decor. For example, a vintage chandelier can add elegance to a contemporary dining room, or an antique mirror can bring character to a modern entryway. Mixing objects creates interest and character, elevating a interior design scheme.
5. Focus on Quality
Quality over quantity is essential when creating a luxurious interior. Invest in well-made furniture and decor pieces that will stand the test of time. High-quality materials and craftsmanship add a sense of luxury and refinement to any space. Try to support local businesses and craftmanship where possible, if you know who’s made it it’s even more special.
6. Create Vignettes
Creating vignettes, or small groupings of decor items, can add layers of interest and style to a room. Arrange items like books, candles, and decorative objects on tables, shelves, or mantels to create visually appealing displays. Vary the heights and textures of these items to add depth and interest, giving the eyes lots to be curious about.
7. Personalise Your Space
Finally, personalise your space with items that reflect your taste and experiences. Family heirlooms, travel souvenirs, and personal collections can add a unique touch to your home. These personal elements tell a story and make the space feel truly yours.
Case Studies: Layering Textures and Styles in Luxury Interiors
Case Study 1: Elegant Living Room
In this Devonshire new build home we helped the client achieve an legant living room interior design. Opting for a neutral base with cream walls, complimented by beige and purple sofas. Layered textures include a velvet cushions, and a woollen rug. A mix of modern and traditional elements, such as a contemporary colours and vintage furniture, creates a sophisticated and balanced look. The use of natural materials like a wooden side cabient and metal accents adds depth and richness.
Case Study 2: Sophisticated Bedroom
This sophisticated bedroom features a layered approach to textures and styles. The bed is dressed in luxurious linens, with a mix of crystal detailed wallpaper and velvet cushions adding texture. A patterned rug adds visual interest, while a mix of modern and antique furniture pieces creates a harmonious balance. Layered lighting, including bedside lamps and a chandelier, enhances the room's ambiance.
Case Study 3: Chic Dining Area
In this chic dining area, a combination of modern and traditional elements creates a luxurious and inviting space. A sleek, modern dining table is paired with classic upholstered chairs. Layered textures include a patterned wallpaper, silk curtains, and a mix of stone and metal fixtures. Artwork and a statement light fixture add visual interest and complete the look.
Case Study 4: Cozy Reading Nook
This property nestled in East Devon is home to a cosy reading nook showcases a layered approach to textures and styles. A plush sofa is paired with a vibrant throw and velvet cushions. A vintage side table and modern floor lamp create a balanced mix of old and new. The use of natural materials, such as a wooden bookshelf and soft accents, adds warmth and depth.
Summary
Layering textures and styles is a brilliant technique for creating successful interiors that feel rich, inviting, and sophisticated. By combining different materials, patterns, and design elements, you can add depth and interest to any space. Remember to start with a neutral base, mix textiles, incorporate natural materials that ideally resignate with the surrounding landscape, and blend modern and traditional elements. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can create a layered, luxurious interior that reflects your unique style and personality.
Embrace the art of layering and transform your home into a haven of luxury and style!
If you’d like some advise or feel we could be of help with your interior design project, we’d love to hear from you. Simply fill out our form on our ‘contact us’ page or call us using the details below.
We look forward to hearing from you.
Sue and Abi x
For more inspiration and expert advice on creating luxurious interiors, visit House & Garden and Elle Decoration UK.
