Design Trends for 2010: The Rise of Texture

I'm a design and food-obsessed freelance writer and market research analyst, and a stay-at-home mom.
I'm a design and food-obsessed freelance writer and market research analyst,... More »
Last week I wrote an ideabook summarizing 10 big design trends for 2010. Commenter stacystyle mentioned that she'd like to see more images and commentary about each trend. I had so much fun with that ideabook that I definitely agreed.

This book starts in the middle of the list, with more about trend #6: texture. I've been on a texture kick ever since I read an article in Food & Wine about the importance of texture in wine and food pairings. I'm always fascinated by how trends in food, fashion, and interior design influence one another (see also: artisanal) - so I thought I'd start here.

I got the insiration for the trend from the San Francisco Chronicle, which says, "If West Elm's spring collection, which launches this week, is any indication, texture will be big in 2010. 'We are spending a lot of time researching new natural materials and unusual techniques with a lot of rich, textural interest,' said Alex Bates, creative director for the retailer."

It's definitely not just West Elm, either. Interesting textures are popping up in pictures all over Houzz and I love it. Here are some great examples:
Exposed brick adds instant texture to a room. It always looks great paired with glossy wood floors, too.
This is the room I chose to illustrate the trend in the "10 trends" ideabook. I love the way the rough texture of the wallpaper contrasts with the smooth cabinets and sink.
Here, both the wall and the ceiling have great - if conservative - texture.
The texture of this wall is just amazing and I love how it fits with the arch.
Wallpaper is a great way to add really unusual textures to walls. This one looks great white, but would be cool with a coat of paint, too.
Tile is another great way to add texture - especially when that tile has a shimmer to it, combining the rough texture of any tiled surface with the smooth texture associated with shine.
We don't always think about texture on the exterior of our houses, but it makes a difference. I love all of the raised detail on this home.
Ah, Miles Redd. He's a master of so many things, texture included. This entire kitchen is high-gloss, from the black walls to the mirrored countertops. A perfect reflection (sorry about the pun) of the owner.
I know - and I agree - that the whole raised sink thing is a little overdone. But I really like these teak sinks for their natural look. I imagine they'd have that rough-smooth combination you'd find on a sailboat.

Comments

Becky Harris I am so into texture right now. I'm dreaming of grasscloth in unexpected colors like navy or purple or kelly green. I also like the way you can keep a palette neutral and really let the textures rule. I even have a folder on my desktop called "Burlap" right now where I'm collecting images of that particular texture ;)
3 years ago ·
oldcharm The vintage bathroom (photo number two) is gorgeous. Great ideabook!
3 years ago ·
Anny You really picked out some gorgeous shots! I added a few to my ideabook :)
3 years ago ·
Sign Up to comment
People who liked these photos also liked:

News From Our Partners