Texture: A Decorating Dynamo

Pattern and Texture
Everything in a room has pattern and texture - fabrics, stone, wood, glass, metal, plaster, brick, china, plants. You can see pattern in printed and woven designs and in wood grain. Textures can usually be felt as well as seen. Porcelain is smooth and hard, while tweed is coarse and soft. Textures can form subtle patterns. Be very careful in using two strong patterns close together in large amounts. Be especially careful mixing similar large-scale patterns.

Plain or unobtrusively patterned coverings are usually best for large areas such as walls or floors. Such coverings are easier to adapt to a decorative scheme than those with strong patterns. With a textured or patterned wall, plain draperies or those with an unobtrusive pattern are usually best. Use contrasting textures for variety where contrasting colors or patterns might destroy unity.

Use a patterned covering where soiling is a problem or where an empty space, such as a hallway or foyer, lacks interest.

Published by the Board of Trustees of the University of Illinois
Reprinted with permission, HouseNet, Inc.

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