Decorating with texture and patterns makes a room interesting and alive. Contrasts of smooth and rough, thick and thin, shiny and dull, stripes and checks, leather sofas and wicker chairs add personality and make a room feel richer.

Balance is essential when introducing texture to a room. To much rough wood, stone and brick can make your home feel heavy. Too much chrome, glass and stainless steel can make your home feel cold and one-dimensional. Rough, coarse textures tend to make an object feel heavier while smoother textures will make it feel lighter. Any object that reflects light like polished stone, chrome or glass will feel lighter than objects that do not, like unpolished stone, iron or brick.

Elements with diverse qualities can make a room look and feel inviting and interesting. Combining different types of surfaces, finishes and periods creates texture. Pair a traditional brown leather sofa with a contemporary coffee table, place modern recliner chairs on either side of a Turkish kilim or place art deco lamps on top of a 19^th century sideboard.

Texture can also be introduced through art work like sculptures, paintings and wall hangings. Other textural elements that can bring texture to your living room include wooden tables, sisal carpeting, leather recliners, ceramic lamps, leather sofas and accessories like woollen throws and scatter cushions.