There’s a quiet kind of alchemy that happens when you layer a room well. Not a grand gesture or a dramatic makeover, but the gentle transformation of a space that feels cold and flat into one that’s warm, welcoming, and wonderfully lived-in. At Angela Reed, we know that warmth isn’t just a matter of degrees. It’s a feeling. And when it comes to interiors, texture is its most charming conductor.
Layering textures is the secret sauce in the recipe for a cosy, characterful home. It’s less about matching and more about mixing. Think of it like dressing for an English autumn: you need depth, contrast, and a little bit of soft thrown over the top for good measure.
Start from the Ground Up: Rugs with Soul
If texture were a symphony, your rug would be the bassline. Low, steady and grounding everything else in the room. A well-placed rug doesn’t just warm your toes; it defines the space and adds instant richness.
Whether you favour something handwoven and bohemian, or prefer the clean lines of natural jute or wool, our rugs collection offers an array of pieces that bring both practicality and personality. Don’t be afraid to go big. Larger rugs can make rooms feel more generous, while layered rugs (yes, rug on rug is a thing) can create a curated, collected feel that’s effortlessly inviting.
Softer Surfaces: Cushions, Throws & Fabric Flourishes
Once the foundations are in place, it’s time to build in the layers. Think cushions in crushed velvet, tumbled linen, brushed cotton, and those wonderful chunky knits that look as if they’ve been plucked straight from a fisherman’s jumper.
Over sofas, beds and benches, drape throws with a little attitude. Fold them neatly or toss them with casual flair, depending on your style. Don't aim for perfect. Comfort comes with a touch of imperfection.
Mixing materials, tones and even patterns creates visual interest and tactile delight. And yes, you can mix stripes with florals, wool with silk, and neutrals with pops of colour. It’s your home, after all.
Nature’s Touch: Wood, Woven Baskets & Earthy Details
Of course, no textural story is complete without a little nod to the great outdoors. Incorporating natural materials like solid wood, ceramics, rattan, and wicker brings balance and earthiness to the plushness of fabrics.
In our furniture collection, you’ll find pieces in oak, mango wood and reclaimed timber. All full of character, grain and timeworn charm. Pair these with woven baskets for storing throws or firewood, and dot around a few ceramic or stone pieces from our accessories collection to complete the picture.
These raw, natural textures anchor a room and stop it from feeling too polished or precious. They say: this space is real, it’s loved, it’s lived in.
A Room that Feels Like a Hug
The beauty of layering textures is that it never goes out of style. It evolves with the seasons. Think linen and lightness in summer, heavier knits and deeper tones in winter. It lets you build a home that feels genuinely yours.
At Angela Reed, we’ve spent over 130 years helping people find pieces that feel as good as they look. Our flagship store in Saffron Walden is a veritable treasure trove for anyone looking to wrap their home in warmth and character. With 13 showrooms set across 5 floors, it’s more of a journey than a shop. But do be warned. It’s rather easy to lose an hour (or three).
So, if your space is feeling a little chilly, resist the urge to crank up the heating straight away. Instead, throw down a rug, add a knitted throw, mix in some wood and wool, and create a home that’s layered with love.
