The Art of Layering Textures in a Dining Room

posted by Emma Radebaugh

Create a cozy, texturally rich dining room with our easy tips for layering textures. Learn how to add balance and warmth to your space.

BY EMMA RADEBOUGH, ARTCENTRON

Best Guide to Layering Textures in Your Dining Room

The dining room is more than just a place to eat—it’s where meals turn into memories. But if this space feels a little flat, layering textures can elevate its overall vibe. Don’t worry—you don’t have to go full-on maximalist to achieve this. With a few clever choices and thoughtful consideration, any dining room can become the texturally rich, inviting space it deserves to be. Here’s how to layer textures in a dining room to get the feeling just right.

Choosing a Base Texture

First things first—start with a solid foundation. The base texture is essentially the star of the show. It might be the natural grain of a beautiful oak dining table, the smooth finish of a concrete accent wall, or even a plush rug underfoot. The key is to pick something enduring and versatile since it sets the mood for everything else.

Be sure to consider the dining room’s existing aesthetic. A rustic vibe? Go for natural, unpolished woods. Sleek and modern? Something clean and smooth, like marble or metal, works well. Establishing this primary texture is crucial for nailing the rest of your texture work.

Adding Secondary Textures

Once the base texture is locked in, secondary textures are where the magic happens. These are what bring depth to a dining space, all while not overshadowing the lead. Here are a few examples of secondary textures that are good to use:

Rugs and Throws: Layering a soft, plush rug over hardwood floors or placing a chunky knit throw on a sleek sofa can add depth and warmth to this space.
Pillows: Incorporate pillows with varying fabrics, such as velvet, linen, or faux fur, to create tactile variety and comfort.
Lampshades: Opt for shades in textured materials like rattan, burlap, or pleated fabric to introduce subtle detail to the overall lighting.
Planters: Use ceramic, terracotta, or woven planters for houseplants to bring in a natural, secondary texture that complements the greenery.

Where To Implement These Textures

Textures can and should appear in multiple areas of the dining room—just be sure not to overcrowd this space. Strategic placement is key. Start with the tabletop, which serves as the centerpiece of the room. Spend time here by incorporating lush greenery, ceramic bowls, or layered placemats to achieve that “effortlessly styled” look. Don’t forget about the chairs, though. Knowing how to mix and match dining chairs and tables is a must to get the feeling of your chosen textures right.

Next, take a crack at the floor. A textured rug can anchor the room while adding warmth and charm, especially if it features a dynamic pattern. Finally, consider the walls. Paneling, textured wallpaper, or even exposed brick can add depth without taking up valuable space. To complete the look, art and decorative mirrors can bring in extra personality with minimal effort.

Achieving a Good Balance

Now, the golden rule of layering textures in a dining room is balance. You don’t want the room screaming, “I’m trying way too hard!” Combine bold and subtle textures so the room feels curated, not chaotic. As long as you focus on creating harmony, not sensory overload, you shouldn’t have anything to worry about.