Design trends spark from events happening in our world, the media being released and even the political state. That is how many designers gain their inspiration, begin creating new designs, and then snowballing into the newest micro-trend. This is most frequently seen with fashion that we see on the runway and the streets, but also with makeup, hair and even interior design.
Unlike other design trends, interior design has a much slower trend cycle. Blogger Laura Burton states that this is due to the fact that the majority want a timeless home. The average duration for a style trend is 10 months, and when applying that to interior trends, that leads you to be repurchasing items frequently. There are few instances where these minor trends turn into classic and timeless styles. The newest one making its breakthrough is tactile.
Tactile is meant to evoke a sense of sensory. This style includes high amounts of texture to create depth while maintaining the balance. Hotel lobbies and upscale restaurants are two places where you may have already seen this style. Tanic brings up the point that tactile style is meant to trigger emotions and human interaction. Depending on what types of elements you use to create the texture, goes hand in hand with what type of emotion you feel. It allows for us to feel calm, comforted and rested. Utilizing these designs in our own personal spaces can transform one's mindset and help them feel optimal relaxation.
There are numerous different reasons as to why tactile is deemed a luxury. For starters, these design styles have been primarily seen in upscale hotels and restaurants. As a result, we automatically associate this style with being luxurious because of the context we have seen it in. But, there are numerous other reasons as to why this is a high end design style.
For starters the feeling of luxury is not physical. It is a mind set. The psychology behind tactile style is what makes this feel high end. The overall goal of these design choices is to positively alter the way you feel. With luxury being defined as “the state of great comfort and extravagant living” it perfectly aligns with the texture heavy style. Cama Amarosa writer Nirali Guzman highlights the many mental effects of this style including; relaxation, excitement, refreshment and even drop in blood pressure.
Just because something is described as luxurious does not mean it is expensive. Similar to fashion, this decor style is subjective and can be executed in any way you imaginable. There is no set color palette or certain materials that “work” better than others. Although, if incorporating this design style into your space interests you, there are many different places where you can start.
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Gravitating towards soft materials is key for creating an elegant, inviting and comforting vibe. This can include linen, wool and velvet. For example investing in a velvet sofa for your home creates a warm welcoming feel. Pairing firmer materials such as bamboo, rattan and lighter shades of wood further leans into the relaxing feel while adding more texture and depth.
Opting towards firmer materials and metals can lead to feelings of stability and calmness. Marble, brass and leather are great options for furniture pieces, and adding clay, tweed and wooden accents compliment the sleek pieces. To balance out the space, adding small elements of softer materials creates a juxtaposition between the two styles and adds lots of depth.
