Ways to Mix Textures to Elevate Any Space.

Mixing textures is one of the easiest ways to make a room look stylish, cozy, and high end without spending a lot. Texture adds depth, warms up neutral spaces, and helps your decor feel more complete. This quick guide will show you how to mix textures like a pro.

What Does It Mean to Mix Textures?

In interior design, texture is how something looks and feels, soft, rough, smooth, shiny, woven, or plush.
Mixing textures means combining different materials so your room feels layered, balanced, and visually interesting.

Simple Ways to Mix Textures in Any Room

Start With One Main Texture

Choose the texture that will set the tone of the room, like:

• A fabric sofa

• A leather chair

• A wood table

• A large area rug

This becomes your base.

Add Soft and Hard Textures Together

The easiest rule for beginners:
Soft + hard = luxury.

Try:

• Soft throws on a leather chair

• A fluffy rug under a metal table

• Linen bedding with wood nightstands

This creates instant balance.

Mix Matte and Shiny Finishes

Combine:

• Matte textures like wood, linen, velvet

• Shiny textures like mirrors, glass, polished metals

This adds depth and keeps neutrals from looking flat.

Bring in Natural Materials

Natural textures make any space feel grounded and warm.

Great options:

• Woven baskets

• Jute or wool rugs

• Wood decor

• Plants

• Stone vases

These instantly elevate your design.

Layer Soft Textiles

Soft layers create comfort and a luxe feel. Try:

• Throw blankets

• Velvet or linen pillows

• Faux fur accents

• Linen curtains

Even small changes make a big difference

Use Patterns for Visual Texture

Patterns act like texture, even on smooth surfaces. You can add:

• Patterned pillows

• A patterned rug

• A textured throw

Keep it simple to avoid clutter.

Mix Large, Medium & Small Textures

Change up the scale so your room doesn’t feel flat.

Examples:

• Big: chunky knit throw

• Medium: woven basket

• Small: ceramic decor

This creates a layered look.

Texture Pairings That Always Work

• Leather + wool

• Wood + linen

• Marble + metal

• Velvet + glass

• Rattan + cotton

These combinations look elevated in any style of home.

Avoid Texture Overload

To keep things simple:

• Stick to 3–5 textures per room

• Keep the color palette neutral

• Use contrast, but don’t overdo it

Less is often more.

Easy Budget Texture Upgrades

Try adding:

• Woven baskets

• A textured throw pillow set

• A wool or jute rug

• Ceramic vases

• Linen curtains

• A rattan lamp

These small pieces instantly boost style.

Final Thoughts

Mixing textures is one of the best ways to elevate any space. By combining soft and hard materials, matte and shiny finishes, and natural and cozy elements, you can create a home that feels warm, stylish, and high end without a full makeover.