Welcome to this month’s topic. Layering! No, not just in your wardrobe with our ever changing weather but also in your home décor. So, grab a drink and your favourite throw/blanket or outdoor cushion depending on the weather of the day, and settle in as I explore why layering is the ultimate secret design trick for a harmonious and inviting living space.
What is Layering, Anyway?
Layering in interior design is like adding depth and dimension to a painting. It involves strategically combining different elements such as textures, colours, patterns, and materials to create visual interest and evoke a sense of warmth and cosiness. It gives your room some oomph…
Have you ever walked into your room and it felt a little flat but you can’t quite put your finger on why? Well this might be the reason… By layering you are adding interest both visually and tactilely. It means your eyes will naturally be led around the room as you take in the different colour tones and textures and it will feel like it has depth to it (that’s the layers of visual interest there).
Layering doesn’t need to mean in your face prints and colours (although that can look absolutely amazing) but it’s about building visual complexity while maintaining the balance and harmony within a space.
Why Layering Matters
Think of layering as the magic wand that can transform a dull, lifeless room into a sanctuary of comfort and style. But don't just take my word for it. So many other interior designers swear by the power of layering to elevate a space.
According to renowned interior designer Nate Berkus, "Layering is what takes a room from a place to live into a space to love." And who doesn't want to love their living space?
But it's not just about aesthetics. Science backs up the importance of creating a layered environment. Studies have shown that incorporating varied textures and materials into your surroundings can have a positive impact on your mood and overall well-being. From the soft plushness of a rug underfoot to the tactile warmth of a chunky knit throw, these sensory experiences can evoke feelings of comfort and security, reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
Layering Across Styles
One of the beautiful things about layering is its versatility. Whether you're a fan of Scandi minimalism, embrace the boldness of maximalism, or prefer the rustic charm of modern country, layering can work its magic in any style of interior.
In a Scandi-inspired space, layering is all about creating a sense of hygge (the Danish concept of cosiness and contentment). Think sheepskin rugs thrown over sleek Scandinavian furniture, soft linen curtains billowing in the breeze, and a mix of natural materials like wood and stone for added warmth and texture.
On the flip side, maximalist interiors thrive on layering to create drama and visual interest. Picture walls adorned with an eclectic mix of art and mirrors, boldly patterned rugs layered atop vibrant carpets, and an abundance of throw pillows and blankets in a riot of colours and textures. It's a feast for the senses that celebrates individuality and self-expression.
Even in a modern country setting, layering plays a pivotal role in creating that quintessential farmhouse charm. Mix and match rustic wooden furniture with cosy upholstered pieces, layer in vintage-inspired textiles like floral prints and ticking stripes, and don't forget to add plenty of greenery and natural elements to bring the outdoors in.
So before you start on your layering journey it’s important to think about what mood you want to create. Bold and playful work well in living spaces but a bedroom might be more tactile and cocooning in ambience. So think bold and vibrant wallpapers paired with bright colours and accessories to create energy and fun. Or if you want a more tranquil and sophisticated vibe then go with textured wallpapers and subtle prints in similar tones to feel elegant and calm.
Practical Tips - the how to of layering
Starting with a neutral base helps to harmonise your colours. If you’re unsure where to start then begin with a neutral palette for your larger furniture pieces and walls. This provides a clean canvas for layering in pops of colour and pattern. Your aim is to harmonise your layers. So choose wallpapers, fabrics and accessories that pick up accent colours from each other. It can be a subtle way of pulling a room together and feeling polished. In the image above they have taken a soft grey green base and added a shot of colour in the headboard and chair upholstery but if you look closely they have added other textures in here with the flat painted units next to a textured fabric wallpaper and different textured throws over the bed.
Mix Textures: Experiment with different textures such as wool, linen, velvet, and leather to add depth and tactile interest to your space. By incorporating different textures it’ll help add visual interest and depth to the room. So by pairing floral prints with a textured wallpaper for example gives you a tactile experience as well as a visual one. The image above shows a large variety of textures but in this instance as a calm, pared back feel. From a natural weave rug, linen sofas, wooden trunk, velvet chair, wicker log basket to the stone table there are numerous textures at play and each helps to add depth and interest to what is a pared back, pale space.
Play with Scale: Vary the scale of your layered elements to create visual contrast and prevent monotony. Pair large-scale furniture with smaller decorative accents for a balanced look. And think about the scale of prints on your walls and soft furnishings - aim to go for one larger scale print and one smaller scale print when layering multiple patterns. This helps prevent the design elements competing for visual attention and losing overall impact. In the image above they have had fun with scale, from the light accentuating the ceiling height with the full drop curtains too falling from the painted ceiling. To the use of a modern textured wall design contrasting with the mid century modern sideboard.
Embrace Contrast: Don't be afraid to mix contrasting styles, patterns, and materials for a dynamic and eclectic aesthetic. Just be careful to strike a balance between contrast and cohesion otherwise your space can feel overwhelmed. In this image above they have taken a strong blue in the recess as a way of anchoring the bed in the space and have then mixed patterns in a contrasting softer colour to add warmth and cosiness.
Layer Lighting: Incorporate multiple sources of lighting, including overhead fixtures, table lamps, and candles, to create ambiance and enhance the layered effect. Different lights create different moods dependent on the time of day so consider the feel you want to have in each room before planning your lighting. And have fun with lights, they can be a focal point and add real fun to your space.
Focal points: if there are key focal points within a room that you’d like to draw attention to then this is where layering can add impact. Consider using wallpapers strategically on accent walls, in alcoves or even ceilings to create a dramatic backdrop. This will help add depth and dimension to your space. In the image above everything is layered with a soft pink muted shade so that the fireplace becomes the focal point and stands out.
Now go ahead, experiment with textures, mix patterns, and let your creativity soar as you create a home that truly reflects your unique personality and lifestyle. Happy layering!
And of course if you ever want any support in how to get there then just give me a call.
Photo Credits with thanks to: Anthropologie, Architectural Digest, Dean Hearne, Décor Digest Daily, Fabricut, Jan Baldwin, Line T Kline, Milo Brown, Otto Tiles, Paul Massey, Pinterest Unknown, Sam Frost, Sarah Griggs, Wallpaper from the 70s, McGee & Co, 1st Dibs, Etsy UK.
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