Fabrics weave their magic

Soft furnishings can make or break a design scheme. Here's how to choose the materials that will transform your room.

While every component of interior design is important, the textiles that go into a room, such as curtains and bedding, are what really make a home. The comfort of the duvet after a long day's work, the large cushion we hide behind during a scary movie, and the throw we use to cover loved ones when they've fallen asleep in front of the television, are all items we can identify and that add those special touches to life. So how do interior designers add these final touches to a room and what are the current trends in textiles?

The client's budget and the needs of the room are what interior designers take into consideration when planning what textiles to use. "I always start with the function of the room," says Irina Rudsrud, interior designer. "Bedrooms need to be dark for sleeping and if there's direct sunlight sheers are needed. Then I would budget and see how much I could spend on fabric. I then choose textiles according to the design and colour scheme set for each room."

Fashion and texture

There are a number of current trends for textiles, but Boudy Nehme from Jab Fabrics emphasises that personal taste is the real defining factor in what consumers are choosing today. "I think trends always depend on the concept and the style in which you are decorating your home," says Nehme. "Everyone has a different vision, different taste and complete freedom of design." Nehme identifies the current trends in colour for curtains as being gold and silver. "Curtains with ornamental patterns including precious stones are very fashionable. Linens with classic design prints in contrasting colours are also a new trend," he says.

When it comes to bedrooms, the bedding that is used adds the final touch to a design. "To make a bedroom look rich and inviting, I add cushions in different textures and colours," says Julie Johnsen, interior designer for CP, The Workshop. "If I'm working with a plain bed cover, I can completely change the style with decorative cushions."

Prints and patterns

The trend for soft-furnishings in the region is opulent fabrics with detail. "Classic baroque prints on linen backing, funky faux leather with an elaborate brocade book stamp and fabrics with plenty of pile in a traditional design or a contemporary metallic colour are the main fabric trends for soft furnishing," says Nehme.

While most home owners know what kind of style they want in their home, many don't know where to begin when it comes to adding soft furnishings and textiles. "If someone wasn't sure as to how they wanted a room decorating, I'd recommend a contemporary style that reflects beauty and luxury," says Nehme. "If you work with a neutral base you can change the feel of the room with accessories, art and cushions," adds Johnsen.