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a way that it is seen as pleasurable and
nurturing, thoughtful and sophisticated,
practical and intuitive.
To get the best of what textures have to
offer in a home, it is a good idea to gain
a little understanding of the different
types of textures and how they work,
both individually and in a mix. The basic
starting point is usually hard and soft.
There are numerous ways of considering
texture with infinite subtle variations
and satisfying combinations. Between
hard and soft, for example, there is a
sort of “given” hardness, as is found in
wood, coir or vinyl. As well as with matt
and glossy, there are dull sheens and
satiny finishes; or rough and smooth,
hairy and silky, warm and cool, heavy
and light, clear and opaque, dimpled,
ridged, creased, frosted, knobby and
sheer – the list is restricted only by your
ability to observe what is around you
desIgn Namibia October - December 2013
and to stretch your imagination!
In general, hard textures provide the
backbone of a room whereas softer
textures form a gentler counterpoint.
Harder textures can often, but not
always, be quite smooth and even
sometimes shiny. Soft textures on the
other hand are rougher and more matt.
So, without trying too hard, it is easy
to achieve a basic textural structure. An
interesting, enjoyable mix of textures
can result from the use of two widely
contrasting materials or from dozens
of more subtle ones. A good balance is
important, though it is not a question
of matching the equal amount of one
texture with its opposite – this may, in
fact, only result in detracting from each
other. Play around and be open-minded,
remembering that texture does not work
on its own only but has a big influence
on all the other essentials of decorating.