Why Layering is Necessary to Create Wow Interiors
Using different hard finishes to create interest or make a statement is one design philosophy many firms use — this one included — and so is the concept of layering soft goods. Upholstery fabric, window treatments, textured wallpaper, and floor coverings can make for a beautiful space. One that is full of depth and meaning, if done correctly.
Layering Hard Finishes
Hard finishes include flooring, walls, ceilings, cabinetry, and countertops. These are the more permanent components of a space. With each piece, each layer, we are developing a story.
The stories are varied and depend on our client, but here are few common tales:
The delicate dance of masculinity and femininity: Metal and wood, but lighter and brighter.
A mix of something old with something new: An heirloom wooden bench transformed to a window seat and topped with custom cushions.
Custom cabinetry with some clear or etched glass panels.
Varying countertops: Granite, concrete, marble, or some other material.
These finishes are often selected pre-construction or during a remodeling project. Since these finishes must be installed first, they are often mistakenly selected without the thought of the entire design concept. Please remember the interior design concept includes these built in finishes and really affect the selection of furnishings.
A remodeled cape house with a retro modern twist. The hard finishes like the slate floors, blue cabinets, planked white ceiling were all taken into account with the design concept as a whole.
Layering Soft Goods
Soft goods are the non-permanent aspects of a space, such as window treatments, furniture, rugs and runners, carpeting, and some decor. A simple layering tactic for soft goods includes adding throw pillows to a sofa.
Each throw pillow will typically have its own unique pattern and texture, while also containing some common thread that unites it with the other elements in the space. This prevents a layered soft good from becoming "hodgepodge" and keeps it within the realm of "well-designed."
Other soft good layering techniques include using woven blinds with linen drapery panels or adding a (faux or real) hide rug on top of a jute rug.
While all furnishings are installed after the house is built or remodeled, the bulk of them were ideally selected at the same time as the hard finishes with the design concept keeping all decisions on track.
While subtle, this room has many layers of soft goods with the use of drapes, upholstery, pillows, and carpeting. Even a throw on the arm of the sofa adds to this technique.
Putting the Layers Together
Working with a designer from the beginning will help you plan the design concept as a whole. A selection of the hard finishes should take into account the future furnishings, floor coverings, window treatments, lighting and accessories. It is a lot to think about, especially if you can't conceptualize it from the floor plans and you aren't familiar with all your options. A designer can help you pull together the materials and make decisions with an entire design design concept in mind.
Have some questions about how to develop a thoughtful budget for your design project? Give us a call...we'd love to help you out! Reach out, and let's chat!
Until next time,
Molly