Interior Design Trends: Top Textures and Materials

The materials and textiles used for home decor and furniture are just as important as the design itself. In fact, celebrated architect Frank Lloyd Wright believed in the synergistic power of design. He said, “…Form and function should be one, joined in a spiritual union.” Therefore, when it comes to the best in contemporary and classic home decor, consider these on-trend textiles. They help express the heart and soul of the home.

Velvet

Taking a cue from the fashion world, velvet is a timeless, must-have fabric. It’s an incredibly versatile material that adds a soft and plush feel to sofas, pillows, and more. Additionally, walk into any home accessories store, and you’ll find living room sets decorated with fuzzy velvet accents. These accents come in a range of fun colors, adding warmth and texture to any space.

Antique Bronze

In today’s home furnishings, we’re seeing timeless finishes like antique bronze coming back in a big way, especially when accented with contemporary touches. For designers, using classic materials allows them to create home decor with a retro vibe while the modern accents give furniture and accessories a hint of sophistication and distinction.

Wool and Natural Fibers

For interior designer Jennie Aden, inspiration comes from her favorite materials—organic textiles found near her home in Stockholm, Sweden. She challenges the status quo by using sustainable, environmentally friendly techniques and materials. The result is an earthy lineup of home accessories made with natural resources from the forests of western Sweden, including slate, polypore fungus, and elk skin. “‘Dig where you stand’ is the principle that drives me,” she explains.

Chunky Knits

Every season, this soft and substantial fabric is a favorite in the fashion world. However, this year, the plush texture of woven knits isn’t limited to fall wardrobe staples like sweaters and sweater dresses. Instead, comfy knits are now being applied to home furnishings. As a result, when designers use this functional yet luxe fabric in home decor, it adds another layer of everyday luxury to a well-coordinated room.

Woven Textiles

This season, designers are using handcrafted accessories made with organic, texturized materials to give spaces a worldly charm. For example, Sarah Hullinger, an interior designer at HBA, used woven textures in lighting designs, custom-made chairs, and hat stands at Caroline Bay, a Ritz-Carlton Reserve in Bermuda. She believes this trend will continue to grow in the world of home decor. “We expect that baskets and other natural, artisan accessories will continue to add international flair to homes in 2018,” she says.

Glass-top Pieces

At this year’s ICFF Editors’ Awards, furniture and home accessories with glass top designs had a major moment. In fact, designer Eny Lee Parker was named “Designer of the Year” for her Ballard table made with hand-thrown terra cotta jugs, which serve as a base for a simple and elegant glass top.

Whether it’s natural and organic materials or classic textiles with enduring style, make the most of form and function with these trending home décor fabrics.