- Structure has a more subtle effect than decorative patterns.
- Texture and feel have a stronger influence on the atmosphere of a room than colour.
- Light and structure work together.
- Structure reduces visual clutter and supports calm room concepts.
- Projects show how textured surfaces combine acoustics, tranquillity, and presence.
Surfaces without patterns
In hospitality projects, we partner with leading planners and architects to bring their concepts to life. Every new project is a new challenge, both technically and creatively.
We also use the experience we gain in these projects in the interior design of private living spaces, from bedrooms to kitchens. Now we share with you how we work with fabrics and textures.
The quiet power of a surface
Sometimes a room can be overwhelming. You walk in and don't know where to look to begin with: big patterns, floral wallpaper, graphic rugs, printed cushions, textured curtains – it's all a bit much. Most of it is well-meant, and some of it might be of high quality. But it all adds up to a bit of a mess.
Texture, on the other hand, works subtly. It creates depth with slight undulations and a surface that diffuses light differently than smooth surfaces. It creates atmosphere without being purely decorative.
While patterns demand visual attention, textures offer a tangible experience: they encourage the hand to touch the surface; they capture the light; they change throughout the day. Textures create a connection to the room – slowly, calmly and sustainably.
This principle is common in many contemporary interiors: they focus less on motifs and more on materials. Less decoration, more texture. Spaces not necessarily loud, but full of character.
Key Facts
Tactile depth
replacing visual clutter
A textured surface has a unique character which patterns cannot achieve.
Patterns can tell a story to the eye, but they always tell the same story. Patterned wallpaper remains the same, whereas textured fabrics change in response to light and grow in character over time.
This dynamic quality makes texture more appealing in the long term.
Light as an ally
Structure thrives on light.
A wall covered in lime plaster softens when the sun falls at a certain angle. Bouclé casts small shadows when the evening sun brushes the fabric. Sandblasted glass reflects light diffusely rather than in clear lines.
Light shapes surfaces and vice versa. The interaction creates an atmospheric effect and is one of the reasons why such rooms appear more lively.
A timeless attitude
Trends come and go.
Structure usually originates in the material. Linen does not develop structure to be fashionable. Oak gains depth when processed because that is how wood works as a material. Natural stone remains natural stone, regardless of current trends.
This timelessness is a benefit. It provides rooms with a stability independent of the zeitgeist. It also prolongs the lifespan of rooms because nothing goes out of style.
Learning to read textures
– a typology
1. Textile structures
Fabrics as a statement
Textiles offer one of the most effective ways to add structure to a room.
Bouclé: soft, warm, voluminous.
Corduroy: rhythmic and clear, ideal for mono-coloured rooms.
Coarse linen: irregular, natural, individual.
Wool felt: acoustically effective, calm, dense.
Hand-woven fabrics: lively, organic, sensitive.
2. Walls
the largest structured area
Often, walls are the most powerful stage for texture.
Lime plaster creates an organic vibrancy.
Clay has a warm, natural feel.
Concrete can be raw or velvety, depending on its finish.
Natural stone has an authentic feel when left untreated, while polished stone is smooth and elegant.
3D panels create specific architectural moments.
Walls are never neutral. Structure makes them narrative – but without decoration.
3. Wood, metal, glass
Tactile memories & structured surprises
Wood is a master of texture. Brushed surfaces reveal fibres, sawn edges display craftsmanship, aged wood tells of the passage of time. Wood always has a tactile effect – even when you don't touch it.
Hammered metal, oxidised surfaces and sandblasted glass broaden the choice of textures for rooms. They have a cool yet warm effect, depending on the context.
design principles
How to use structure wisely
Contrast creates impact
Structure requires dialogue.
A smooth surface makes a rough surface stronger. A matt surface makes a shiny surface appear calmer. The secret lies in their interaction – not just the individual material.
Monochromatic colours accentuate materiality.
Tone-on-tone concepts thrive on structure.
Earthy colours, sand tones, shades of grey – in such rooms, it's the material that tells the story, not the colours. The result: tranquillity and depth at the same time.
The Amount: Less is more
Too much texture will make rooms feel cluttered.
The trick is to ensure a good balance: 60 per cent texture, 40 per cent sleek surfaces is a reasonable guideline.
Define sensory zones.
Wherever people physically touch a surface – bed areas, passageways, armrests, walls – texture has a very special effect.
Careful positioning creates small but powerful moments.
Light & Structure
– an evocative symbiosis
Structure needs light to unfold its potential. And light needs structure to create atmosphere.
Indirect lighting emphasises the texture. Grazing light creates depth. Warm light condenses texture, cool light opens it up.
structured, not decorated
Case studies
MOUNTAIN RESORT FEUERBERG, Gerlitzen Alpe -NEW SPACES IN 2025
Location, location, location! Situated on top of the hotel, the design quality in this hotel is on par. Mountains characterise the ambience, with modern and fresh details. ►
SONNEN RESORT, Naturno (I)
Hotel furnishings in Tyrol: soft ambience, monochrome colours, structured textures. Rooms for retreat, holidays, relaxation. ☀
BERGMÄHDER alpine residence, Oberlech
Five apartments, thoughtfully designed – using colours, materials and lighting that reflect nature. Interior design, creating a sense of tranquillity. ►
Planning structures in everyday life
Tips & tricks
Always touch material samples physically.
Plan lighting on textured walls carefully.
Think tone-on-tone – reduce colour.
Combine different textures in similar shades.
Use smooth surfaces as a counterpoint.
Five questions when choosing materials
checklist
1. How does the surface feel?
2. How does it look in daylight?
3. How will it age?
4. Is it suitable for the intended use?
5. Where does the room need peace and quiet rather than structure?
Your residential project
- Overall duration of the process: 3–8 months, depending on the scope of the project
- Investment: Transparent calculations show the cost incurred starting from the planning stage (step 2), which will be offset once the project is commissioned.
- Your next step: Arrange your free initial consultation and find out what the 5-step process could look for you.
Teresa Gruber
BSc.; Interior Design
With her keen eye for textures, colours and the delicate balance of functionality and design, she contributes to interior design in a wide variety of projects. In her articles, she shares insights from her professional experience, inspiration from the world of interior design and tips for thoughtful planning.
‘For me, good interior design begins where materials have a very subtle effect and shape the ambience.’
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Images: Nussbaumer Photography, Naturhotel Forsthofgut, Sonnen Resort Naturns, Alex Moling, Horeca, Adobe Stock, home INTERIOR