The art of layering textures in interiors: How to create depth and warmth in interiors
June 16, 2025
by Home Fabrics
Texture is the unsung hero of interior design. If you’ve ever stepped into a space that feels effortlessly cosy and refined, chances are it’s the interplay of textures at work. While colour and pattern often take centre stage, it’s texture that quietly adds depth, warmth, and sophistication to a space.
Whether it’s the tactile allure of plush velvets, the relaxed elegance of soft linens, or the raw beauty of natural woven fabrics, layering textures creates a dynamic, inviting atmosphere that transforms interiors from flat to fascinating. The secret lies in combining different materials and finishes to create contrast and harmony, ensuring the space is not only visually engaging but also rich in sensory appeal.
Why texture matters in interior design
Texture plays a crucial role in how a space looks and feels. It can influence everything from light reflection to the mood of a room. Smooth and shiny surfaces, such as silk or polished marble, add a sense of sleek sophistication, while matte and nubbly textures like bouclé or natural linen create warmth and comfort.
Layering textures prevents a space from feeling one-dimensional. A monochromatic scheme, for example, gains depth when contrasting textures are introduced. Imagine a soft velvet sofa against a rugged jute rug, or a smooth leather chair paired with a wool throw. The mix of textures elevates the space, making it more inviting and interesting.
Building a textural palette
To create a well-balanced and layered interior, start with a mix of textures that complement each other while adding variation. Here are a few key elements to consider:
- Soft and plush: Velvets, bouclé, chenille, and faux fur bring a luxurious feel to interiors. Upholstery in plush fabrics instantly makes a space feel inviting and indulgent.
- Natural and organic: Linen, cotton, wool, and woven materials like rattan or sisal introduce a grounded, organic touch. These textures bring warmth and an effortless, lived-in charm.
- Smooth and reflective: Glossy finishes, silk, glass, and metallics add contrast to softer elements, enhancing the sense of balance in a room.
- Structured and bold: Jacquards, embossed textiles, and intricate weaves create depth and drama. These patterns and textures make a statement, whether in upholstery, drapery, or accent pieces.
Layering with upholstery and accessories
One of the easiest ways to introduce texture into a space is through upholstery. Jehz Sofas, known for their plush, custom upholstery, offers a range of luxurious fabrics that lend themselves beautifully to a layered look. From rich velvets that exude warmth to nubbly bouclé and linen blends that add understated elegance, their bespoke sofas and chairs make the perfect foundation for textural layering.
Once your key furniture pieces are in place, layering continues with accessories. Mix and match cushions in different materials, pairing smooth silk with chunky knits, or soft suede with crisp linen, to create depth and contrast. Wallpaper with texture is also a unique sensory experience to introduce to spaces. They can be playful, elegant or anything in between and cover large areas for a great textural statement. Finally, throws, rugs, and drapery add the "cherry on the cake" to complete the layered effect.
Incorporating textural fabrics into your space
When selecting fabrics for upholstery, curtains, or decorative accents, consider how they interact with natural and artificial light. Certain materials, like velvet, absorb light to create depth, while others, like silk and satin, reflect it for a more luminous effect.
Kirsty Sutherland of Design Hatch is an interior designer who is known for luxurious spaces created both in Southern African and into the continent. Inspired by her travels, Kirsty makes use of different fabrics, cleverly layering different textures to achieve contemporary, glamorous looks. She regularly includes the variety of fabric textures within the Decorator's Choice range for their soft tactile appeal and the sense of elegance or modernity they can add to a design.
The power of contrast
Balancing different textures is key to achieving a harmonious look. If your space features smooth, sleek elements like glass and polished surfaces, introduce contrasting textures to soften the feel. A leather sofa, for instance, can be offset with a plush wool throw and linen cushions. Similarly, a modern minimalist space can benefit from woven baskets, knitted poufs, or a tactile area rug to add warmth and dimension.
Bringing it all together
Mastering the art of layering textures requires a thoughtful approach—mixing materials, balancing contrast, and ensuring each element contributes to a cohesive whole. Whether you’re working with plush velvets, relaxed linens, or bold jacquards, the key is to create a space that not only looks beautiful but also feels inviting. Adding depth and warmth to your interiors has never been easier. By embracing texture, you can transform any space into a richly layered and deeply comforting retreat.
Shop the look
Here are some of our favourite fabrics featured in this article, and where you can buy them.
Shop the look
Here are some of our favourite fabrics featured in this article, and where you can buy them.
Shop the look
Here are some of our favourite fabrics featured in this article, and where you can buy them.