A Guide to Furniture Textures and How to Incorporate Them Into Your Space
When it comes to designing a space that feels complete, texture is often the missing piece. From soft and cozy to sleek and structured, different materials can bring depth, balance, and personality to any room. In this guide, we’ll explore popular furniture textures and share simple, thoughtful ways to incorporate them into your space—so your home feels just as good as it looks.
BouclÉ
Bouclé has become a design favorite thanks to its cozy texture and high-end appeal. This looped, nubby fabric adds visual interest and a sense of warmth, making it ideal for accent chairs, ottomans, and even pillows. Whether you're aiming for a minimalist look or layering in a bit of softness, bouclé can bring subtle sophistication to your space without overpowering it.
Care Instructions
Don’t let its soft and cozy appearance fool you—bouclé is relatively low-maintenance. Use a vacuum with an upholstery attachment to keep it free of dust and debris. However, keep in mind that pet claws can snag the fabric’s signature loops, and lighter shades, like ivory, may show stains more easily.
Styling Tips
Bouclé is a perfect starting point if you're new to mixing textures. A little goes a long way—drape a colorful throw over a bouclé chair or layer a few decorative pillows on a chaise lounge to instantly elevate the space. Its subtle texture adds depth without overwhelming your design.
Leather
Leather is classic, timeless, and incredibly versatile. Made from animal hides, leather results in a product that's both durable and stylish — a winning combo for your living space. You can find it in a variety of natural tones, and whether dyed or left natural, this material’s notable warm tones evoke a welcoming atmosphere in any space.
Care Instructions
Leather is known for its durability, longevity, and ease of care—qualities that make it a smart choice for many homes. In most cases, spills can be wiped clean with a soft, damp cloth. Just keep in mind that leather can scratch easily, so it may not be the best fit for high-traffic areas or households with young children or pets.
Styling Tips
The beauty of leather is that's incredibly versatile, and it's easily incorporated into all types of design styles. Whether you prefer a modern vibe, boho chic, an industrial look, or a more traditional style, you can easily incorporate leather pieces into your space. Leather adds warmth and character, but with a few thoughtfully placed throws and pillows, you can easily add contrast and depth to the look of your space.
Velvet
Velvet brings a sense of luxury and softness that instantly elevates any room. Its smooth, plush surface pairs beautifully with contrasting textures like leather or linen, creating a layered, high-end look. According to Martha Stewart, mixing furniture textures is a lasting design trend—and velvet is a perfect addition to that mix. Despite its upscale feel, velvet is more durable than it looks, making it a great choice for families with kids or pets. Use it across sofas, throw pillows, or even bedding for a touch of elegance throughout your space.
Care Instructions
Velvet is surprisingly easy to clean, and crumbs can be removed with a vacuum that has a soft brush attachment. Sometimes creases appear on velvet, but you can remove them with a handheld steamer. If spills happen, simply use a soft cloth and a solvent that's gentle enough to clean the area. Check the care guide for your velvet furniture to see whether it needs a water-free solvent. Velvet fabric will also patina as it ages, but by carefully placing it out of direct sunlight, you can keep the color from fading.
Styling Tips
Blending textures can be a fun and rewarding part of the design process—and velvet makes a bold yet versatile statement. If you’re drawn to an Art Deco or vintage-inspired aesthetic, a velvet sofa or accent chair can anchor the space beautifully. Choose a color that complements your existing palette to maintain balance while adding a rich, tactile layer to the room.
Design Your Space with Romanza
Exploring different furniture textures is an exciting part of the design journey—and you don’t have to do it alone. Our design experts at Romanza are here to help you select the perfect pieces that reflect your style and elevate your home. Let’s create a space that feels like home and looks effortlessly stunning. Contact us to begin your design experience.