There's a fine line between a cool but inviting minimalist plan and a cold, sparse space, and interior designers say it's all about texture. A room with limited décor, modest furniture selection, and subdued color palette places a lot of emphasis on the materials and finishes used.
Of course, paying attention to these details is a given in any kind of modern interior design. However, the successful application of minimalism relies even more on the good use of texture. “Essentially, texture is a silent conductor conducting a symphony of simplicity,” says Sabra Baron, founder and principal designer of San Francisco-based boutique design firm BallonSTUDIO. “He brings his designs to life in a minimalist environment where there is a risk of infertility. It’s the difference between a flat image and a rich three-dimensional experience of his.”
So how exactly should you introduce texture into your minimalist scheme? We asked interior designers for their advice.
How to add texture to a minimalist room
First, the key to introducing texture is in the mix. “When designing a minimalist space, it's important to use a variety of textures in your plan so the space doesn't feel flat, both literally and figuratively.” Louisville-based Interior designer Bethany Adams says: “When a room is primarily her one color, the eye is drawn to the subtle differences in texture, which makes a simple space interesting.”
To begin with, Bethany has some materials that she focuses on more than others. “Try pairing tweed or bouclé with velvet, silk, or linen,” she recommends. “Mix leather (or faux leather, if you prefer), wood tones, and always her one metal.”
1. Look at the wall
(Image credit: Kite Globe)
Patterned wallpapers and color mixtures are not suitable for minimalist plans, but when it comes to wall finishes, there are plenty of options that offer similarly interesting, but much more subtle looking textures. “Wall texture can be incorporated subtly and tastefully,” says Susie Atkinson, founder and creative director of London-based Studio Atkinson. “Consider options like textured paint or wallpaper with subtle patterns such as natural seaweed.”
Costa Mesa interior designer Lindy Galloway favors wood and stucco for her minimalist plans. “Adding raked reed wood, white oak paneling, or stucco can really change the feel of a space,” she says. Meanwhile, his Artem Kropovinsky, co-founder of New York design studio Arsight, recommends a hand-troweled finish, saying it “whispers a sense of luxury without being too verbose.”
Consider wainscoting, stone, or tile to add depth and character without overwhelming the space, adds Susie. “These textures provide a sense of balance and inject warmth and interest into minimalist environments, making them not only visually appealing and inviting, but also acoustically helpful.”
(Image credit: Anna Stathaki)
A few well-chosen carpets or minimalist rugs can add texture to a simple room. “Rugs and carpets play an important role in minimalist design by introducing texture and warmth,” says Katie Lyon, senior interior designer at Kitesgrove in London. It provides visual contrast against smooth surfaces and adds depth to the space. Subtle color variations and high-quality materials such as wool and silk convey elegance while maintaining a minimalist aesthetic. ”
Many of the designers we spoke to recommended taking advantage of the high pile texture trend here. “Rugs are a great opportunity to play with texture,” says her girlfriend Sabra Ballon of ballonSTUDIO. “Consider a plush high-pile rug for a cozy corner, or a patterned low-pile rug for visual interest. The key is to keep it simple. Less. It’s good enough.”
If you choose a more subdued design, a layered look is a good choice for your rug. “Try a durable wool rug in a simple color scheme over a sisal or jute rug,” says Jenny Williamson, chief creative officer and principal designer at Westrose Design. I recommend it. She also recommends carpets with a neutral herringbone pattern. “You can add subtle textural interest to your floor without causing visual 'noise.' ”
Beige Turkish Plain Weave Wool Rug
Size: 9'10″ x 12'
Material: Hand-carded, pot-dyed Afghan wool
3. Choose a combination of furniture
(Image credit: Lindy Galloway)
In rental homes, incorporating texture through furniture selection is the most effective approach to achieving a minimalist look. However, avoid buying similar items and enjoy the wide range of material options available. “Wood adds warmth, travertine and marble bring a sense of luxury, and steel gives a sleek, modern edge,” says Sabra Baron. “Balance is the key. Carefully mix the ingredients to create a harmonious composition.”
Textured furniture is perfect for creating a soft impression. “I love incorporating thick linen sofas and bouclé accent chairs,” says Lindy Galloway. For a slightly more luxurious look, Leticia Laurent, founder and principal designer of Laure Nell Interiors in Boca Raton, Florida, turns to different fabrics. “Bouclé had a big moment last year, but I think it's velvet's turn to shine now,” she says.
Metal accents, on the other hand, provide a high shine and can add warmth or coolness depending on your preference. Consider them along with other “hard” materials as accents in your scheme. “We recommend considering charred wood for a rich narrative or fluted glass for a soft distortion,” says Artem Kropovinsky. “For metals, instead of the usual chrome, we use brushed bronze for its timeless appeal.”
And finally, don't ignore stones like marble and our new favorite, limestone. “Travertine is an incredibly versatile and cost-effective material that can easily increase the textural complexity of a space,” says Los Angeles interior designer Tanya Stone. “It's easy to maintain and can easily add depth to a minimalist design.”
4. Bring textiles to every occasion
(Image credit: Tramp Studio. Design: Linette Dai Design)
Textiles should be quite calm in a minimalist scheme, but should be introduced wherever possible. For example, a simple Roman blind instead of an exposed window or a few scattered cushions on a pure white boucle sofa can do wonders for the overall look. The feel of the room. “Textiles should reflect the theme of restraint,” says Sabra Baron. Stick to neutral tones and simple patterns, and consider light, airy linens and cottons. Throws and cushions, if chosen carefully, can be the perfect punctuation mark in a minimalist story. ”
These small touches can also enhance the sensory appeal of a minimalist space. “Textiles in minimalism should evoke emotions through touch,” explains Artem Kropovinsky. “Linen and raw silk, for example, combine the freshness of a minimalist space with rugged elegance.” Consider flowing linen curtains in a minimalist scheme as a finishing touch to add an extra layer of luxury to the space. please.
Soho Home Margeaux Cotton Blend Velvet Pillow with Fringes
Price: $170
Material: 85% cotton, 15% polyester Filling: 100% feather
5. Add accents with accessories
(Image credit: Matthew Williams)
The final layer of your minimalist scheme is the accessories and objects you add as finishing touches. In addition to drawing attention to negative space, another important element of interior design, especially minimalist interior design, vases, candleholders, and mirrors introduce textures that you wouldn't otherwise bring in, such as gloss or metallics. can do.
Lighting is also often overlooked. “Pendant lights with textured shades or light fixtures made from interesting materials can be sculptural accents,” says Subrabaron. “Also, don't forget about greenery. Plant textures introduce a refreshing organic element and enhance the overall design.”
These are also places to add small accent colors. For example, black never fails even in a minimalist scheme. “A monochromatic color scheme requires texture to help portray each piece of furniture and architectural detail,” says Neptune's interior design lead Simon His Templell. “It's important to incorporate a little contrast to break up the monotony, such as black iron side tables, black framed artwork, and bronze light fixtures.”
Harriet pleated floor lamp
Price: $398
Dimensions: 62″ height, 30.25″ diameter.