Textiles are one of the more subtle yet essential elements in bringing the composition of a room together……
Textiles are their own medium or material (pun intended), and an informed selection of textiles can greatly influence the success and cohesive outcome of any design project…..large or small, partial update or full remodel. Textiles can provide character, texture, visual interest, and often but not always pattern.
A thoughtful emphasis on textiles is an often under recognized and under utilized component in the selection of furniture. The fabric/furniture relationship, as well as the importance of a textile’s interaction with surrounding materials, textures and surfaces within the relational space, are a vital component to a successful spacial composition.
The relationship and interaction of textiles to one another is just as important as their relationship to surrounding surfaces and materials. Once again, trends can influence what clients ‘think they want’, often based on what is ‘most commonly seen’. But as with other design elements in a project, timelessness, visual interest, individuality, as well as practicality, are much stronger influences in my design perspective and practice when selecting textiles, than trend tends to be.
Similar to other materials, textiles can be subdued or dynamic, they can echo surrounding materials or create an accent….. there is no preconceived formula which applies to all projects, but rather a distinct solution (or formula), which is unique to a client’s project, and derived from an integral and holistic viewpoint. Yet another medium which can contribute to the individual signature of a project. My expertise as a textile designer adds delight in the process of sourcing the perfect textiles for each client’s needs and style.
Two timeless references which I would highly recommend:
- Constantine, Mildred/Larsen, Jack Lenor. The Art Fabric: Mainstream, Van Nostrand Reinhold Co., 1986
- Albers, Anni. Anni Albers: On Designing, Wesleyan University Press, 1971
