Material crush: how to style with texture & contrast

There’s just something magical about mixing materials. It’s one of those not-so-secret design tricks I always come back to. Because when everything in a space feels the same, the energy kind of falls flat. But mix wood with brass, or glass with ceramics? That’s when the room starts to shine.

Here’s how I like to use contrast to create interiors that feel dynamic, personal, and full of soul. No renovation required.

Start soft: textiles that play nice (or don’t)

Cushions and throws are the easiest way to start layering texture. I love pairing crisp cotton cushions with a structured leather chair, or trying letting a linen curtain pool slightly over a sleek wood floor, effortless contrast, instant charm.You get that satisfying contrast without shifting a single piece of furniture. Textiles bring the softness, while grounding materials like wood, marble, or chrome keep things feeling clean and balanced.

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Go natural: wood, stone, and ceramics

Natural materials are your best friend when it comes to mixing. Try combining a solid oak shelf with painted walls, or layer a marble tray on a wooden coffee table. I also love how glazed ceramics catch the light and add just the right touch of gloss in an otherwise matte space. This is where you can really play with shape and finish, nothing too matchy.

→ Discover our collection in WOOD, STONE & CERAMIC

Add some shine: brass, chrome, or glass

Even the most laid-back interior needs a bit of sparkle. Enter: metallics. A brass table lamp, chrome frame, or reflective glass vase instantly brings light and a little glam. The key is to use these accents sparingly, like jewellery. Just enough to lift the look and add some edge.

→ Add some shine with BRASS, CHROME & GLASS

Keep the base simple, then layer

If your walls and floors are clean and minimal, you have the perfect canvas to start layering. This is where I often reach for SHADE paint, colours like Pistacchio ES20 or Soft Clay ES09 are subtle enough to let your materials shine, but still add warmth and personality. Once that’s in place, you can add shelves, textiles, and accents that pop against your base tone.

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Think about feeling, not just looks

At La Fabrika, we’re big believers in designing by feel. Mixing materials isn’t just about style, it’s about how you want your space to feel. Warm? Breezy? Sophisticated? Free-spirited? Texture helps you get there. It’s how we help clients build interiors that feel just right, season after season.

Need help finding your mix? We’re here to help your interior tell your story.

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