Texture

This gorgeous and inspiring little book celebrates the diverse textures of the natural world - wood, stone, linen and wool - and shows how they can enhance and enliven our homes.

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In a world dominated by new technology, the digital and the computerized, natural materials have never seemed more appealing. In this alluring little book, the textures of the natural world are seen both close up and in the home, providing a wealth of visual inspiration. Any interior decorator will tell you that the role of texture in interiors is a well-kept secret. Texture adds depth, detail and definition, and it delights the eye. It draws us into a space and invites us to explore, to run our fingers over different surfaces, to caress cashmere or stroke glossy wood.

We associate different textures with different moods. Rough, unfinished textures such as unfinished wood and crumpled hand-woven linen are warm and natural. They signal rustic charm; an AGA and a vegetable patch. Sleek marble and glossy polished wood, on the other hand, feel cool and formal and are associated with all things slick, chic and metropolitan - a black cab on a dark night, martinis in a hotel bar. Infinitely versatile, these natural materials and textures can be used in an array of different guises to create the perfect interior. The great thing about texture is that it's easy to add it to a room scheme. Introducing texture can be as straightforward (and inexpensive) as buying a chunky woven rug to cover your polished wooden floor or throwing a fluffy mohair bedspread over ironed cotton sheets.