With temperatures on the decline, it’s safe to say we’ve reached the time of year where hibernating indoors seems like the only sensible thing to do. While the weather outside becomes more frightful, the interior of your home can become more delightful with cozy textures just perfect for winter.
While textures may not be as obvious as color and pattern they can still make as big of an impact. What’s important to understand is that different textures, as with many other design elements, interact with light by either absorbing, reflecting, or diffusing it. For example, smooth and glossy textures tend to be more reflective, making the space look bigger and lighter. Rougher textures, on the other hand, absorb light, which creates a cozy and comfortable feel. And since that’s what we want during these cooler months, those are the textures we’re going to focus on.
Fabrics
Lots of fabrics provide textural interest, but when it comes to warming up the interior of a home during cold months, there are some that just do better than others. are the top contenders:
Velvet
To some, velvet might seem too lush or elegant for a casual space, but that couldn’t be further from the truth. Velvet is so versatile and can be paired with any other fabric you throw its way! Being that velvet can be made from a variety of fibers, there are different types of fabric to choose from, including linen velvet, silk velvet, mohair velvet, printed velvet, Devore (burnout) velvet, and crushed velvet. From formal dining rooms to casual family spaces, velvet is sure to warm it up. To learn more about velvet, including how to care for it, read out blog Velvet: A Fabric to Love.
Wool
Wool is a natural fiber clipped from animals such as sheep, goat, camel, alpaca, and llama. It is renowned for its warmth and crease resistance, as well as moisture absorbing properties. Often times, people associate wool with being rough or “scratchy.” While some wool does feel that way, there are many other kinds that don’t. In fact, the wool family actually includes fancier knits including cashmere, mohair, and angora–all of which are incredibly soft. Cashmere, for instance, is a soft wool fabric woven from the hair of the Cashmere, or Kashmir goat. Another super-soft option is merino wool, which is sheared off merino sheep. In general, wool is a beautiful choice when it comes to rugs or blankets. More luxurious options are often used for decorative throws. Wool can be pricey, but it’s worth the investment.
Sheepskin, Furs, and Faux furs
Luscious sheepskin not only adds warmth to a space, but it also makes a serious design statement. Sheepskin is soft, beautiful, and exotic. It adds coziness and texture to any room that it’s in. Just think about how toasty your feet will feel on a rug made of this soft textile. In addition to providing lovely coverage to your floors, sheepskin rugs can also serve double duty as a warm throw blanket for a bed or sofa.
Furs and faux furs are luxe and warm as well. Many faux furs are made so well that they’re used more often than people realize. Not only are faux furs kinder to animals, but they also cost a lot less than the real thing too.
Cable-Knits
Cable knitting is a type of knit stitch in which one group of stitches is crossed over or under another group of stitches, changing the order in which those stitches appear on the knitting needles. The result is what you probably imagine it to look like: a comfortable sweater. The thing is, we know that cable-knit sweaters provide us with warmth so of course, it only makes sense that they would give that illusion of warmth when used in the home. Additionally, cable-knit textiles look great and are an easy way to add comfort to any room in your home during the cold weather.
Patterns
Certain patterns also have a way of warming up a space. Here are some ones worth considering for your space:
- Plaids. Patterns like plaids, checks, and houndstooth all have that cozy look to them, especially when made out of a fabric like wool.
- Faux bois. Faux bois is basically imitation wood or wood grain. It can be found on things such as rugs and wallpaper. It’s a great way to bring an outdoorsy look to the space for less.
- Southwestern (or Navajo). If you’ve ever stayed at a cabin out west during the winter, you’ve probably run across a southwestern-type pattern. They’re often rich in color, which provides both warmth and rustic elegance.
Finishes and Accessories
Last but not least are some finishes and accessories that add cozy textures. Some examples include, but are not limited to:
- Stone fireplaces. Stone has a natural charm and represents the connection between nature and the earth. Natural stone can complement any décor. And, since it’s a natural material, no two stones are the same, which means more variety of decorating possibilities due to endless color combos.
- Wood burning stoves. A classic wood-burning stove can bring an old-world charm to your home. Not only does it provide real warmth, but it also creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for spending time together.
- Stacked wood. You might not give much thought to firewood as being a decorative element, but when stacked just right, it can be visually appealing and downright beautiful.
- Afghans. An afghan is a knitted or crocheted blanket often seen thrown over the back of a chair or folded at the foot of a bed. What makes them special is the beautiful pairing of color and texture. Crocheted afghans are useful no matter the season. Not only are they warm, but they’re often also beautifully decorative.
Keep in mind that some of these ideas are permanent, while others can be easily changed out for the seasons. See what will work best for you and get that cozy sanctuary for the months ahead.
When you’re ready to elevate the coziness in your home, let us help. Stop by one of our showrooms or browse our online store. We have an abundance of fabrics, rugs, and accessories that are perfect for layering more texture into your decor.
