Welcome to The Inspired Room. I’m delighted to be part of this summer “How to Decorate” blog series hosted by Beth at Home Stories A to Z. Twenty-five talented bloggers are sharing ideas all week, and I’m thrilled to join them again. Follow the series to discover new perspectives and decorating tips from each contributor.
Today’s lineup includes a range of creative bloggers sharing their best ideas and practical inspiration.
Today I want to share a simple decorating secret that transforms rooms from a collection of pretty objects into spaces that feel warm, layered and complete. When we think about decorating, we often picture new accessories, fresh paint, artwork or a rug. Those elements matter, but there’s another essential element that often goes unnoticed. It’s not costly and you don’t need a designer showroom to add it. You can find it at a thrift store, in the garage, in your craft supplies, or just outdoors. Once you know what to look for, you’ll have fun adding it to every room.
What is the decorating secret?
Layers of texture.
Texture brings depth and interest. Even a room filled with lovely items can feel flat if it lacks variation in texture. Adding textured layers—whether subtle or bold—creates warmth and invites the eye to move around the space. It doesn’t mean you must use busy patterns or colors you dislike. Texture can be understated and still make a powerful difference.
Texture is what finishes a space, giving it personality and cohesion. It allows different elements to work together so the room feels thoughtfully composed rather than simply assembled.
If the idea of adding layers feels overwhelming, don’t worry. You don’t need a pre-packaged collection to make a room feel complete. Decorating is a process you can enjoy at your own pace. You can have a colorful home, a neutral space, or an all-white room and still use texture to create dimension and interest.
Your home should reflect your personal style. With the right mixture of textures, you can mix old and new, rustic and refined, inexpensive finds and treasured heirlooms until your space feels uniquely yours.
Here are practical ways to introduce texture in your home.
5 Ways to Incorporate Texture:
1) Rugs
Rugs are an easy and effective way to add texture. Whether neutral or patterned, rugs bring softness and surface interest. Try natural jute, a plush fur, a woven wool, or a luxurious silk. Layering rugs—over carpet or other rugs—can create depth, or leave the floor bare if your wood or tile is beautiful on its own.
2) Accessories
Vary finishes and materials among accessories. Combine glass vases, ceramic bowls, mirrors and metallic accents with organic elements like branches, shells, or plants. Add woven baskets, textured throws and pillows, and natural trays. You can group similar textures together or scatter them throughout a room for visual balance.
3) Furniture finishes
Mix different furniture finishes to create visual interest. Combine wood pieces with painted furniture, upholstery, and metal or mirrored accents. Even a single piece can include multiple textures—think a wooden dresser with interesting hardware or an upholstered chair paired with a sleek side table. Blend antiques with modern pieces and thrifted finds with new items.
4) Wall finishes
Move beyond flat paint to add texture on walls. Wallpaper, beadboard, shiplap, tile, wainscoting or textured plaster introduce architectural interest and can transform a room’s character without overwhelming it.
5) Window treatments
Windows offer another opportunity for texture. Add flowing drapery, Roman shades, sheer panels, textured blinds or shutters. Even if a window is beautiful on its own, soft or structured treatments can enhance the overall feel of the room.
Try an “I spy” game with the photos in this post: look for layered textures and the ways different materials are combined.
Then walk through your home and take stock. If a room feels flat, go on a texture treasure hunt and add one or two new elements—small changes make a big difference.
Now check out the other bloggers in the series at Home Stories A to Z for the full lineup and more decorating inspiration.
If you need ideas, my How to Decorate page and Home Inspiration Galleries are full of tips and examples I use in my own home. Explore those pages for practical advice and inspiration to guide your decorating journey.
Sources: I’ll be sharing details about some of the new items you see in these photos soon, including where they came from and how they fit into each room.
Follow along on Instagram for updates and sign up for the free email newsletter to stay informed about upcoming projects and news.
