Texture in Interior Space
Our process for selecting textures for a space. Where do we begin?
It totally depends on our project concepts and style, then the size and location where we want to use the texture. By size, I mean ceiling height, depth of viewpoint, and wall size. Large textures are good for large walls, while narrow-width walls require moderate or very small textures. We have a progressive stage. First is the concept idea, picking the color and style, and deciding on the material of the texture according to the size and location of the applied space. Then, it is about the nature of the project in terms of the type of occupancy, where code and standard, classification of fire resistance matters, like colorfastness, longevity, durability, and maintenance, we consider whether there is direct exposure to natural or artificial light and whether it suits the usage over time. And alongside all these factors we check the price, lead time, availability based on the project timeline. So that I could say is the process.
Achieve a balance between textural contrast and textural harmony in projects.
Good question. We must be aware that texture is meant to bring attention and highlight some areas, not to be overused. Therefore, a combination of paint and soft wall coverings with no pattern and texture is ideal, or tiles that have a quiet feature. So, texture and non-texture, texture and color, can bring contrast. Harmony can be achieved with cove lighting or concealed lighting through the texture and non-texture to create a smooth transition as well as harmony. It is ideal to stick with one type of texture or material for the texture. If used in different places, we don’t want to create a showroom for promoting the texture, but we want to promote the aesthetic of one or two types of texture in one small project.
Best places to make use of different textures.
Sometimes textures act as the focal point, so they will be at the center of view. In residential spaces, this could be the main living room wall, fireplace wall, bedhead wall, main entrance wall, or kitchen wall. In commercial or office spaces, it may be in the conference room, meeting room, reception wall, or waiting area. Usually, the location is at the center of attention and view of the users.
Top examples of textures being used well in space
In PB Reality project and collaboration with developers display suites, we have created a beautiful wall texture for our common area using ribbed wood laminate on the wall, making our social lounge area the focal point. We also tried to make the kitchen cabinet design versatile by using beautiful beige chroma ribbed for top cabinet doors, giving the residential kitchen an attractive texture.
Ways that Designer can add depth to a space using different textures
Adding depth is achieved by using layered textures, slightly rough edges, tumbled or split-faced surfaces, or geometric shapes with a three-dimensional impact. Large-scale rock patterns with many boulders also add depth. The location of the texture is as important as the type of texture. Color is another factor; darker colors create a deeper and heavier effect.
Ways to use textures to evoke specific emotions in a space
By thoughtfully selecting and combining textures, you can create spaces that evoke the desired emotional responses and enhance the overall ambiance. Soft textures create comfort and relaxation, warmth, and coziness. Elegant and luxurious spaces need more satin and polished textures for an elegant and sophisticated luxury feeling. Geometric patterns create energy, creativity, and excitement. Organic textures like raw stone, bamboo, and rattan create an urban, earthy, nature-connected, and grounded feeling—peaceful in one word. To create a refined and minimal feeling, the less-is-more approach should use soft textures, fabric, cotton, smooth plaster, and concrete or smooth finishes.
Personal choices inspired by historical or modern influences in terms of texture
For me personally, minimal mono- texture are timeless, however speaking about the historical influences, the Victorian era's maximalist texture is always pleasant to see and be inspired by, which is suitable for hospitality projects combined with modern and minimal features. Very playful, isn’t it?
Another concept that influences my taste is mid-century, with natural wood grain, leather, simple linen, and wool. The third style I admire is Art Deco, with smooth, glossy surfaces, lacquered finishes, mirrored and metallic textures. I have so much respect for cultural textures like Japanese, Moroccan, African, Mediterranean, Persian, and Southeast Asian influences from historical art cities like Bali, Jakarta, Melaka, Penang, Chiang Mai, and Chinese cities like Beijing, Guangzhou, and Shanghai.
However, I get excited about current and future technology, parametric textures, 3D printing textures, and many things that make our imagination wild and unlimited. That is something I like to incorporate into our projects
