The Importance of Layering Texture and Pattern in a Room

Architecture, floor plans, and furniture lay the groundwork for a room, but the real fun begins with layering patterns and textures. This aspect happens to be our favorite part of design. Patterns and textures inject personality, set the mood, and keep the eye wandering around the space. Designing a room offers endless opportunities; each layer we add lets us play with patterns and textures to make a statement.

From rugs to upholstery, every piece contributes to the room's overall feel. Layering rugs, whether it's wool or seagrass (especially used together), not only adds coziness but also softens hard flooring like wood or tile. Upholstery brings warmth and color, giving us the chance to mix in patterns, shapes and various textiles. Pillows, throws, and little details like piping, skirting and trim add to the tactile and visual appeal.

Walls are another playground for layering. Wall treatments like wallpaper or grasscloth, paired with drapery, lighting, and artwork, add depth and personality. Accessories are key in layering too, bringing contrast and interest. For example, fabric lamp shades, antique or upholstered screens, tole or porcelain lamps, metal light fixtures, linen-wrapped books, bone boxes, glass hurricanes, not to mention fresh plants and flowers.

Deciding how to mix patterns and textures is personal and depends on the mood you want to create. We love everything from florals to graphics for patterns, and textures like linen, wool, and wood add warmth and character. Ultimately, layering patterns and textures transforms a room into an inviting, dynamic space that reflects each client's style.

High point Market

Last week, the small town of High Point, North Carolina buzzed with excitement as designers, enthusiasts, and tastemakers from around the globe gathered for the much-anticipated High Point Market. It was a whirlwind of inspiration, innovation, and, of course, a little indulgence. As we immersed ourselves in the world of interior design, we felt like kids in a candy shop, surrounded by an array of beautiful furnishings and decor.

At High Point, there is something for every taste and style. We toured some brands we've worked with for years, and we also discovered quite a few new lines we're excited to incorporate into our projects. We left feeling inspired and energized, armed with plenty of ideas to bring back to our own clients.

Of course, no trip to High Point would be complete without a bit of antiquing, and we made sure to carve out some time to explore what market had to offer. We met with some familiar dealers we've seen at other shows and also connected with many new faces. It's these unexpected, one-of-a-kind pieces that inject a sense of authenticity and depth into our projects.

And speaking of client projects, we did quite a bit of shopping on their behalf as well. One of our favorites were some absolutely stunning Oushak rugs. Their intricate patterns, muted colors, and luxurious wool bring elegance and warmth to any space. We know our clients are going to love what we selected, and we can't wait to see them installed.

With a renewed sense of purpose and a fresh perspective, we look forward to incorporating the lessons from High Point into our designs in a way that reflects both our personal style and the unique tastes of our clients. Until next time, High Point!

Shopping for antiques: Part 1

We love decorating with antiques. They bring energy, personality and patina to a space that cannot be easily replicated with all new pieces. Some people use the term antique very strictly (age and provenance), but we take a decidedly looser approach. We’ll shop nearly anywhere for them—in person and online and especially while traveling—and have discovered incredible finds in the most surprising places. If the word antique makes you think of dowdy surroundings, you just have not been exposed yet to the truly beautiful furniture and decor available in all kinds of styles and tastes.

Buying for Value vs. Personal Appeal: Finding Your Balance

Buying antiques doesn’t need to be intimidating. Anyone with an eye for quality and a bit of curiosity can discover things that speak to their personal style. Sure, some people are in it for the investment potential, but for most of us, it's about finding pieces that we genuinely love and enjoy having around. Whether it's a faux bois fauteuil armchair or a rattan waterfall coffee table, the key is to buy what speaks to you—not what some magazine (or blog!) told you to buy. If it happens to appreciate in value over time, that's just a bonus. So, trust your instincts, buy what you love, and let the rest take care of itself.

Good Bones, Quality Materials: What to Look For

You don't need to be a seasoned pro to spot quality craftsmanship. When you're out hunting for antiques, keep an eye out for pieces with sturdy construction, good lines and materials that stand the test of time. Solid wood, well-made joints, and a beautiful patina are all indicators of a piece's quality. And don't be afraid to get up close and personal—give it a shake, open the drawers, and inspect it from every angle. If it feels solid and well-made, chances are it will last for years to come.

Practical Antiques: Beauty with a Purpose

Who says antiques are just for show? Many antique furniture and decor pieces are not only beautiful but also quite functional, and we don’t hesitate to place them in highly trafficked areas of the home. Take, for example, an antique dresser that doubles as a stylish storage solution or burl wood coffee table that adds character to your living room. When you're shopping for antiques, look for pieces that not only look good but also serve a purpose in your daily life. After all, what's the point of having a beautiful antique if you can't actually use it?

In Conclusion: Antiquing for Everyone

Antiquing doesn't have to be intimidating or pretentious. It’s about finding items that resonate with you and add character to your home. For most of us, the best part of antiquing is the thrill of the hunt—and the satisfaction of finally finding that perfect piece. Happy hunting!

Fake it until you make it

Having fresh flowers and plants in our homes is a small luxury, and a weekly purchase even from the grocery store is something we encourage our clients to enjoy. However, also incorporating faux flowers and greenery can be a welcomed addition. When it comes to faux flowers, we have a few tricks up our sleeves.

It can be difficult to pull off a fake plant without it screaming “faux” right in your face, but there are some options that deliver a more realistic punch than others. With careful consideration, silk orchids can be more believable. Work with your favorite florist on designing an arrangement for you. They can pot the silk stems as you would real stems, and by also including live but preserved elements such as moss, twigs and raffia, you will have a statement arrangement and no one will know you went faux.

And speaking of moss, preserved moss can be added to a bowl, planter or even an urn, adding a pop of greenery. Place it on a chest, as a dining table centerpiece or on a coffee table.

Tole (metal) plants, seen here as agave, are also an interesting twist. While they don’t add color to a space, they do add some of the texture and shape that plants bring.

A final option is custom paper plants, as seen below. Papier Fleurs creates these amazing works of art, and they have so many incredible options. Different and special, place these in your own cache pot, and they will look fantastic.

Pattern Play

While paint has long been a popular choice for adding color and personality to a space, there's an enduring alternative that has stood the test of time: wallpaper. Far from being a fleeting trend, wallpaper has proven itself as a timeless design element, offering a wide variety of options to suit every style. From adding depth and texture to creating focal points, this versatile design element can elevate any room. Here are some ideas and tips for incorporating wallpaper into your space:

1. Embrace Big Patterns in Small Spaces: One of the most effective ways to make a statement with wallpaper is by using bold patterns in small spaces. Whether it's a powder room, a cozy nook, or a hallway, don't shy away from vibrant designs. Big, eye-catching patterns can add drama and personality to even the tiniest of rooms, instantly transforming them into memorable spaces.

2. Vinyl vs. Paper Wallpaper: When choosing wallpaper, consider the material carefully. Vinyl wallpaper is durable, easy to clean, and resistant to moisture, making it an excellent choice for high-traffic areas like kitchens and bathrooms. On the other hand, paper wallpaper offers a more delicate and luxurious feel, perfect for adding elegance to formal living areas or bedrooms.

3. When to Use Grasscloth: For those seeking a natural and textured look, grasscloth wallpaper is the answer. Made from woven natural fibers like grass, jute, or bamboo, grasscloth adds warmth and depth to any room. It's particularly well-suited for creating a relaxed and organic atmosphere in spaces such as living rooms or bedrooms.

4. Wallpaper as Art: Think of wallpaper as more than just a decorative element; it's like adding art to your walls. Whether you opt for a bold print, a whimsical block print pattern, or a sophisticated botanical design, wallpaper has the power to transform your space into something really exciting and inspiring. Treat it as you would a piece of artwork, allowing it to become the focal point around which you design the rest of the room.

5. Creating Atmosphere: Perhaps most importantly, wallpaper has the ability to set the tone and atmosphere of a room. Whether you're aiming for cozy and intimate or bright and energetic, the right wallpaper can help you achieve your desired effect. Consider the mood you want to evoke in each space and choose wallpaper accordingly. Soft, muted tones for a calming effect, or bold, vibrant colors for a sense of dynamism.

We love wallpaper and our clients seem to as well. For those new to it, it can seem like a leap of faith, but it always pays dividends in the end. Above are some examples of wallpaper we've used in client projects. 

Drapery Decoded: The Design Secret to Transforming Your Space

Drapery is a versatile design element capable of taking a space from ordinary to truly special. Beyond its primary function of providing privacy and controlling light, drapery has the power to add layers of depth and sophistication to any room. When used thoughtfully, it becomes the finishing touch, the subtle detail that elevates the entire space.

Much like a well-placed piece of art, drapery has the ability to frame a space, drawing the eye upward and creating the illusion of taller ceilings. It softens harsh lines and adds elegance to even the most minimalist of interiors. Drapery is the eyeliner of interior design, defining boundaries and creating moments of visual interest.

Unfortunately, in most circumstances, custom drapery is costly. Therefore, it's important to approach it as an investment rather than an afterthought. While there are upfront costs associated with quality materials and skilled craftsmanship (the workroom you choose is as important as the fabric!), the pay off is worth it. It pulls together a room in a subtle yet powerful way. Rarely do we feel a space is complete without some kind of custom window treatment.

Above are some examples of the custom drapery we’ve commissioned for clients. Each of these rooms would look and feel drastically different without it. Although we like to include drapery at the start of any project, it’s never too late to add. It just might be what your space is missing!

Why we love any and all skirted tables

As my close designer friends know, I love a skirted table and never shy away from using one in my clients’ projects and my own home. A skirted table adds softness, color, pattern and texture. It can relax a formal space or lift up a casual one. It’s like that perfect blazer that makes any outfit better whether you want to dress up or down.

Sometimes we go big with fringe and tape and other times it’s all about the pleating and/or fabric pattern and color. In the photo above, this skirted center table provides a welcoming focal point in this large foyer, adding softness to a room filled with hard finishes. Having a full-length skirt is a striking visual anchor to contrast the high ceilings without weighing down the space. The custom octagonal shape looks fantastic from every direction, as this foyer is visible from the dining room, main living room, front door and the primary bedroom hallway.

Not only are skirted tables great in a foyer, but also they make out to be beautiful bedside tables, sofa side tables, console tables and desks and can also be an excellent solution for a sideboard/cocktail bar in a dining room. They pair well with art hanging above or tucked behind a sofa topped with lamps and books. The possibilities are limitless.

We’re designing a room for a large family right now, and a skirted table will be balanced by a gorgeous antique chest on the other side of the sofa. Just because a room serves a lot of children (four in this case!) doesn’t mean it can’t also be beautiful. No doubt toys will be stored under that skirt, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.

Living Large: Pro Tips for Perfectly Arranging Your Spacious Living Room

Large living rooms can be intimidating, but they don’t need to be. It’s all about dividing the room into zones and designing them thoughtfully and in concert with one another. Instead of letting a big space overwhelm you, use it to your advantage.

A large room typically responds well to having multiple conversation areas, as seen above in this family room/sunroom we designed in Nashville. This long room has three distinct areas. One area is the family room (bottom photo) with the TV over the fireplace. The comfortable upholstery and large ottoman make it a great spot for the family to pile up together. In the center of the room, an octagonal skirted table and chandelier serve as an anchor as well as a room divider that looks pretty from all angles. This center table also doubles during entertaining as an excellent spot for hors d’oeuvres. The third space features four chairs placed just next to the bar, creating a fabulous conversation spot when hosting an event.

Remember to keep in mind that every conversation area should include a few things: wherever they sit, each person should have easy access to a spot to set their drink (e.g. on an end table or coffee table) and also each seat should be part of the conversation or easily pulled up to be included even if not arranged like that every day. The idea is to design the layout such that each person feels relaxed and part of things wherever they choose to sit.

A famously old trick, often attributed to Bunny Williams, is to pay attention to how your guests rearrange your furniture during a party. Someone probably cleverly pulled up a chair just where it needs to be!

Why All of Your New Furniture Might Not Feel Right

Quite often we have clients reach out to us after they have purchased a lot of things they love, but the space still does not feel right. They are unhappy with the result, frustrated with themselves and ready to call in the pros.

What’s wrong with these rooms? It varies widely but here are some challenges we see time and again:
- Scale is off.
- Form is celebrated while function is ignored.
- Everything is too “new”.

Scale
No room is designed at French Gray interiors without a floor plan drawn to scale. When something is too big or too small, you can sense it in a space, even if you aren’t sure why. (This is also one reason why well-designed rooms feel really good when you are in them, beyond just how pretty they are.) A room might feel overwhelmed or it might feel too dinky. A floor plan allows us to see whether the furniture plan provides a good layout, adequate flow, what might be missing, and of course accurate scale. Scale is often wrong when buying furniture without this crucial step.

Form Over Function
A space that doesn’t mean the needs of the people living there is not a good space. It won’t be useful. It won’t service its inhabitants. Sometimes it will even stop being used altogether! A space must appease the functions needs of that room as much as the aesthetic desires, and that - very importantly - includes comfort.

Everything is Too "New"
Going out and buying a bunch of new furniture and hoping it all works is typically a surefire miss. When we say “new“ we mean newly manufactured. Whether or not we realize it, our eye is most pleased when there is a variety of texture in a space. That means using different materials (wood, metal, fabric, etc) as well as finishes (painted, stained, raw, gilded, etc). All brand new furniture - as opposed to vintage or antique - can give off a flat energy. Too much of it makes the room feel boring and one note. When designing projects, we are dedicated to selecting a variety of materials from all different sources. We mix old with new, custom with off the rack. The amalgamation is what makes a room harmonize.

Begin With the End in Mind

So you love design and you want to love your home, but it just isn’t clicking. You buy things that speak to you and you read all of the magazines, scour Pinterest, etc but it isn’t coming together. Why might that be?

Without having a clear, full vision for the space, rooms can feel disjointed and out of sync. Scale, proportion, pattern, texture … each design element needs to be considered and counterweighted by the other items in a space. Although the best rooms are decorated over time, they are built on a scheme that is thoughtful and cohesive.

Working with a full-service designer is what separates fragmented from fabulous. Even if executed over time, a defined design plan makes all of the difference when the goal is a beautiful space that speaks to your aesthetic and meets your functional needs. Click here to learn more about our design process and feel free to reach out.

Welcome

If you’re new here, we’re new here too. Welcome! So glad we found each other. 

In this space, French Gray Interiors will share insights into the design process, tips for navigating design challenges and sneak peeks of our work.

Living and working among beautiful things is an honor and privilege we don’t take for granted. We want to share that experience with others so we can all know the joy and pleasure of being surrounded by spaces that make us happy, calm and comforted. We hope you stick around to learn more.