7 Ways to Add Texture to Home Decor

When decorating a space, one of the most overlooked yet important elements is texture. Adding texture brings depth, interest, and warmth to a room. Without it? Things can fall flat. Here are five ways to easily introduce texture into your home decor and why it’s so important.

And, just to clarify – texture can also be smooth. That can absolutely add interest to space. However, we tend to have enough glossy or flat textures in our homes already (quartz countertops, metal light fixtures, appliances, etc.). So here, I’m sharing more about textures that add warmth and depth.

1. Textured Rugs

Area rugs add texture to a room by providing different surfaces, such as plush, jute, or woven options, that make the space feel more interesting. For example, a plush rug can make the room feel soft and cozy, while a jute rug adds a natural, earthy touch, and a woven rug can bring in unique patterns and styles.

Why it works: Rugs can soften hard surfaces like wood or tile and bring warmth and depth. I’ve gathered up some of my favorite Geometric Area Rugs.

2. Throw Pillows

I know it’s easy to pile on the pillows. However, go about it intentionally as an easy way to add texture to a space. Choose various textures like velvet, linen, tassels, mud cloth or chunky knits to create a rich, tactile experience. The contrast between these materials can elevate even the most basic couch or bed setup.

Not sure how to bring them together? Check out my guide on How to Layer Pillows Like a Pro.

Why it works: Mixing textures helps break up a monotonous look, making your space feel cozy and sophisticated. Plus, it’s an easy way to refresh a room seasonally or change the vibe without a complete overhaul.

3. Woven Baskets

Woven baskets, whether used for storage or purely decorative purposes, bring an organic, hand-crafted quality to your home. The natural fibers and intricate designs of wicker, seagrass, or rattan baskets create a tactile contrast to the smoother surfaces of furniture or walls. Check out my list of Versatile Baskets to use around the home.

Why it works: The natural element of woven baskets adds warmth to a room, balancing out sleek, modern furniture and helping to create a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere.

4. Textured Wall Art

Texture isn’t just for floors or furniture – your walls can get in on the action too! Consider adding three-dimensional wall art, such as macramé, woven tapestries, or even framed textiles. I’ve rounded up some of my favorite Wall Art Alternatives for more ideas.

Why it works: Textured wall art creates visual interest at eye level and can balance out other smooth surfaces in the room, like glass or polished wood. It also adds personality and uniqueness to your decor.

5. Basket Light Fixtures

Beyond fabric and organic elements, look for lighting fixtures that incorporate textured finishes. Lamps with textured ceramic bases or woven lampshades, for example, add subtle texture. One of my favorite ways to add texture is with Basket Light Fixtures. I’ve rounded up my top Woven Pendant Lights here.

Why it works: Textured lighting adds another layer of depth to a room and can tie in with other design elements, creating a cohesive yet multi-dimensional space.

6. Natural Elements

Bringing in natural elements is one of my favorite ways of bumping up the texture in a space. Think dried botanicals, ceramics, wood, or stone.

They’re, um, naturally textured. I love including natural elements as it invites conversation and tells a story.

7. Woven Wood Shades

Give me a room that feels flat and one dimensional and I will immediately grab some woven wood shades. These are by far one of the quickest & easiest ways to upgrade a space with added warmth and texture.

You know I can’t get enough of these, check out my complete Woven Shade Guide or Organic Modern Window Treatments.

8. Woven Furniture & Decor

Keeping your eye out for little details on furniture is a great way to add texture. I especially love chairs with woven seats or cabinets with fluted wood.

A lot of the furniture I’ve curated checks off this design box. Check out my Low Profile Accent Chairs and Round Coffee Table posts for some interesting surfaces.

Final Thoughts

Texture in home decor is like seasoning in food – without it, everything feels flat. Different finishes add visual weight, creating balance and contrast in a space. It helps draw attention to focal points and adds a sense of coziness. Without texture, rooms can feel stark or cold, but with it, they transform into inviting, comfortable spaces that feel lived-in and well-designed.

Whether you’re going for a cozy, minimalist, or eclectic vibe, incorporating texture through these simple elements can make a big impact. Curious to learn more? This definition from Interior Design Student adds more details.