Interior Design Trends: Top Textures and Materials

The materials and textiles used for home decor and furniture is just as important as the design itself. In fact, it was the celebrated architect Frank Lloyd Wright that believed in the synergistic power of design: “…Form and function should be one, joined in a spiritual union.” When it comes to the best in contemporary and classic home decor, consider these on-trend textiles for expressing the heart and soul of the home.

The materials and textiles used for home decor and furniture is just as important as the design itself. In fact, it was the celebrated architect Frank Lloyd Wright that believed in the synergistic power of design: “…Form and function should be one, joined in a spiritual union.” When it comes to the best in contemporary and classic home decor, consider these on-trend textiles for expressing the heart and soul of the home.

Velvet

Taking a cue from the fashion world and its timeless, must-have fabric, velvet is an incredibly versatile material that adds a soft and plush feeling to sofas, pillows, and so much more. Walk into any home accessories store and you’ll find living room sets that are decorated with fuzzy velvet accents in a range of fun colors.

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 she finds close to home in Stockholm, Sweden. When creating home decor and furniture, she challenges the status quo by using techniques and materials that are sustainable and environmentally friendly. The result is an earthy line up of home accessories made with gathered natural resources found in 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. But this year, the plush and comforting texture of woven knits isn’t limited to fall wardrobe staples like sweaters and sweater dresses. Today, we’re seeing comfy knits applied to home furnishings as well. When designers include this equally functional and 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. 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 gain traction in the world of home decor: “We expect that baskets and other natural, artisan accessories will continue to give homes a bit of international flair 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.