Texture relies on natural light and lighting effects within a room, to show its diverse character and ability to change colour and pattern. Flat fabrics are brought to life with added detail; ornament, translucency, pile and slubs of natural fibres, even objects are cleverly woven into simple cloth. Use them like a banner to replace pictures, or create a talking point with large floor cushions. Noise reduction Rediscover the benefits of natural materials on floors with the depth of colour and pattern achieved by wood, sisals, coir and wool. These all add visual interest to a room and can help reduce noise. Shaggy pile rugs, leather cushions, chenille throws, even real wood floors can dampen the effect of unwelcome noise and provide sensual qualities to an interior. Matt versus gloss  Different types of texture can either add a feeling of luxury or simplicity. The smooth, hard surfaces, often associated with sophisticated contemporary interiors, can be complemented by deep pile rugs and soft upholstery. Matt surfaces in dark colours soak up light and will add depth and distance eg deep blue ceilings imitating the sky. Traditional distemper paint gives a beautiful powder-matt finish to ceilings or use matt emulsion for easy application. Glossy lacquered kitchen doors are smart, chic and reflect light, but they can accentuate noise levels, particularly when combined with stainless steel, granite or slate work surfaces. Balance  A simple rule is to always counter-balance one surface texture with an opposite, for example, a thick pile rug on a polished floor or solid wood doors on kitchen units complement a stone-type work-surface. A mirror is a great way to expand space in small areas and its hard reflective surface can be compensated for by positioning it along with interlined curtains or, even better, on a fabric covered wall. When you are next decorating, try to combine at least three or four different textures within an area to achieve a balance. Use pattern to determine the style, combined with a palette of colours to enhance the natural light of the room and your lifestyle. Colour Colour is dramatically altered by the texture of surfaces especially when a specific shaft of directional light shines onto it. Positioning a low-voltage down lighter carefully, so that its beam shines down the folds of a curtain can accentuate the texture of the cloth. Always test decorative surfaces and finishes in natural daylight, evening light and under any new lighting scheme before committing to an expensive investment. Wallpaper Texture now defies some of the traditional rules. Some new and exciting patterned and texture-blown vinyl wallpapers can add drama and style to walls without the need to paint them at a very reasonable cost.
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