Comfort, theme, price, and color may be some of the foremost factors you consider when decorating your home. However, there’s another crucial element of good design that often goes overlooked: texture.
This aspect may trip up some homeowners since it comprises many different facets, including appearance and tactile sensation. But when you’re able to fully grasp it and incorporate it mindfully, you can make your home feel more balanced, inviting, and tasteful than ever. Here are some of the most effective ways to add stylish texture to any space.
Different materials carry distinct textural looks that affect how we respond to them: hard or rough surfaces bring a formal edge to rooms, while objects that are soft to the touch are more welcoming. One of the best ways to create impressive interiors is to incorporate a wide spectrum of materials into your spaces that vary from soft to hard, including fabric, wood, ceramic, glass, metal, and stone.
If a room feels off no matter how much you tweak and rearrange it, featuring a new material could offer a solution. For example, say you have a dining room that’s full of wooden furniture and feels a bit stuffy. Adding curtains, a rug, and some cushioned seating could lend a comfortable tone and balanced texture to the space.
And don’t fret about your materials needing to match. According to the principles of transitional design, which incorporates elements from different themes and time periods, you can successfully layer varying materials as long as you select them carefully and unite them around a tight, cohesive color scheme. So a living room with antique upholstered furniture could benefit from a surprising piece like a contemporary resin table if it suits the surrounding color palette. This stark visual contrast can also make the space feel well curated and texturally balanced.
Depending on who you ask, pattern may not technically fall under the category of texture. But stripes, waves, florals, and other types of patterns can certainly achieve the same effect as other textural details, adding visual intrigue to surfaces.
In other words, patterns are packed with texture, so incorporate them into every room. Structural features like herringbone flooring and slat-wood wall paneling are wonderful options, but it may be more cost-effective to pepper patterns into your accent decor, such as with intricately painted pillows or pottery.
Of course, some restraint is needed—a space with too much variety could have the maddening appearance of a circus tent. Try sticking to three patterns at most per room, placing objects that feature them strategically and surrounding them with flat surfaces. As a straightforward example, you could simply set a striped accent pillow on a solid-colored chair for a powerful effect.
Paint doesn’t just set the tone for a room; it also has a textural range of its own. Because satin, semigloss, and glossy paints reflect light, they can lend a subtle texture to a space, especially when used to highlight an architectural element like wainscoting or crown molding. Conversely, you can achieve a flat look if you opt for paint with an eggshell or matte finish, each of which has low reflectivity.
To add even more attention-grabbing texture to your walls, curate an art collection—these pieces will lend instant textural effects to their surroundings. For subtlety, choose paintings with larger swaths of matte color and few hard lines. Or to add significant character to a wall, select a piece that features a greater number of bold shapes or a diverse palette of glossy colors.
Incorporating texture doesn’t have to be difficult. Be intentional with your choices, and you can ultimately achieve your desired effect: a high-energy room full of textural variety, a soothing and sparse space where your stress can slip away, or a perfectly balanced place that meets somewhere in the middle.
Good insulation is like a cozy jacket for your home, forming a barrier against cold outdoor temperatures and promoting efficient indoor heating. But it also has a cooling effect during the hottest months. It keeps cold, comfortable air indoors while blocking sweltering heat from baking your house and making you sweat. And, as a bonus, it can help you save up to 15 percent on heating and cooling costs.
But that’s assuming your insulation is up to par. Low-quality products may have a measly R-value, which measures how well materials prevent heat from transferring through them. Meanwhile, insufficient insulation could leave attics, garages, and other vulnerable areas of your home completely uninsulated, making climate control for your entire home more expensive.
If your home’s energy costs have been gradually increasing or you’ve noticed temperature fluctuations between rooms, it may be a good idea to invest in superior insulation. Here’s what you need to know about insulating your home to help you save energy and money.
Selecting the best material for your home can be complicated. There are dozens of insulators to choose from, ranging from classic options like spray-on foam to innovative products like reflective foil sheets. Certain choices have surprising perks. For example, mineral wool fiber is resistant to very high temperatures and sprayed-on foam is suitable for unusual structural layouts. Some materials are even designed to deter pests.
Of course, not every material works for every home. The following types offer the most remarkable and comprehensive benefits to homeowners.
Most affordable: radiant barriers
Radiant barrier insulation relies on unique technology to reflect heat and keep interiors cool. It is effective yet incredibly affordable thanks to its commonplace materials: typically a paper filling and an aluminum foil wrapper. In addition to being inexpensive to purchase and install, this option is one of the best for homeowners in hot climates.
Best for DIY: blanket batts and rolls
This well-known product resembles a cushioned blanket that you simply slip onto your open walls, making it a go-to choice for unfinished attics, basements, and garages. Blanket batts and rolls are available in materials like fiberglass and mineral wool and are produced in standard sizes to suit construction-regulation gaps between floor joists, wall studs, and attic rafters. Just be sure to wear eye protection and a mask during installation since these materials release irritating dust when handled.
Surprisingly effective: polystyrene
Extruded polystyrene foam boards are such effective insulators that your resulting energy savings can offset the cost to produce them—despite their being made of nonbiodegradable plastic. In addition, the material is thin, moisture resistant, long-lasting, and easy to install. That said, green homeowners may want to opt for eco-friendly organic insulators, which can contain biodegradable cork, humane sheep’s wool, or even recycled denim.
When combined with properly sealed doors, windows, and vents, good insulation offers a heat-resistant barrier for your home, saving you money and promoting year-round comfort. But it’s not a one-size-fits-all tool: the ideal insulation for your home largely depends on the climate zone you live in, and there are even distinct recommendations for spaces like attics and exterior walls. Get to know these materials thoroughly, and consider discussing your options with an insulation contractor before making a purchase to improve your home’s comfort.
For more info, visit energy.gov/energysaver/insulation
After a busy week of work, chores, and caring for your loved ones, a spa day can sound quite tempting. The luxurious atmosphere and relaxing sensations provide you the peace you crave—and they might offer a substantial health boost in the process. Research shows that some popular wellness treatments might be as healthy as they are enjoyable, a rarity in a world in which unhealthy behaviors are often more enticing.
In fact, certain spa services may even qualify as integrative medicine, or therapeutic treatments performed outside of medical clinics and facilities that have proven medical benefits. So do yourself a favor and check into your local spa, get swept away by the ambience of aromatherapy candles and soothing music, and enjoy the perks of these notably healthy self-care treatments.
Almost nothing is as relaxing as an hour of massage therapy, and this hands-on pressure may actually be good for your connective tissues too. During treatment, a massage therapist works your soft tissues with varying compressions and motions, which Everyday Health notes can lead to improved blood flow, relief from pain and muscle tightness, faster recovery from intense exercise, and other benefits. Physicians may even recommend massage to treat chronic conditions like migraines and muscle spasms. (However, massage therapists may have to undergo additional or specialized training to perform these types of treatments.)
Keep in mind, though, that not all massages are suitable for everyone. For example, deep-tissue massage, which relies on intense pressure to work out kinks, can potentially be harmful to people with sensitive tissue conditions like arthritis. So be sure to consult with your doctor before going straight to massage therapy for whole-body healing.
Who doesn’t want to be treated like royalty for an hour and walk away looking refreshed and revitalized? A wide range of skin facial treatments make lofty promises, and many can indeed make good on them. Undergoing a facial “purifies and regenerates your skin, which leads to an overall improvement in its health,” dermatologist Hope Mitchell tells InStyle magazine. There are facials aimed at addressing just about every skin malady, including acne and sunburn.
Spas and wellness centers often advertise facials for their long list of miracle-cure ingredients—a veritable smoothie of fruits, veggies, and oats spread across your skin—many of which offer one common benefit: moisture. For a healthy hydration boost, search for treatments that utilize ingredients found both in nature and in common skin moisturizers, such as aloe vera, shea butter, and cocoa butter. Such therapies can address immediate issues like dry, itchy skin and prevent long-term concerns, including fine lines and wrinkles. However, people with sensitive skin conditions such as allergies and rosacea should be particularly selective about the treatments they undergo. More aggressive spa services like exfoliation may irritate or worsen these skin woes.
Believe it or not, wellness services dedicated to sheer decadence can be healthy. These include classic spa offerings like hot-bath soaks and more recent innovations like sensory deprivation floats. (If you’re curious about this treatment, it involves lying in a completely dark tank of water.)
Their chief advantages lie in stress relief, which alone has broad health implications. Chronic stress is shown to have hordes of documented effects on the body, ranging in severity from headaches to insomnia to a weakened immune system to even an increased risk of heart attacks. But you don’t necessarily need an intense treatment like a deprivation float to release your stress; even ones as simple as scented candles and aromatherapy are proven to reduce stress levels, improve sleep, increase mental focus, and more.
Finally, there are the services that explicitly promote their alignment with mainstream medicine. The med spa industry of relaxing, cosmetic treatments has exploded in recent years and is anticipated to balloon to $49.4 billion globally by 2030, according to consulting firm the Research Insights. You could very well attribute these spas’ success to their comfortable overlap of health care with self-care. But are their treatments truly beneficial?
The answer depends on what sort of condition ails you. Under the supervision of experts like board-certified dermatologists, med spas offer treatments, including microdermabrasion (high-tech skin exfoliation) and laser hair removal, that are clinically proven to address certain cosmetic issues with lasting results. Some of these centers even provide treatments like hormone replacement, which affects whole-body health and can help address specific symptoms, including chronic fatigue and weight gain. And like day spas, med spas often craft a comfortable ambience so your service feels more relaxing than sterile—as opposed to traditional medical exam rooms.
But, again, med spa treatments aren’t a replacement for traditional health care, and your medical insurance may not cover them if they’re deemed cosmetic. So if you’re experiencing a malady beyond the aesthetic, you should see a doctor first, particularly before pursuing body contouring and other weight loss procedures. With their approval, you can securely sign up for med spa treatments and address your cosmetic concerns in a restful atmosphere.
Now go get pampered, settle into your seat or tub, and enjoy the moment! Then walk away with a positive feeling that you have not only soothed away some stress but also potentially made a difference for your health.
*For more info and individualized health recommendations, consult your doctor.
The cool winds that sweep across much of the Northern Hemisphere this time of year warn that winter is on its way, causing many of us to dream of palm-lined beaches, bright skies, and warm breezes. From US favorites to global hot spots, sun-soaked destinations offer the perfect antidote to cold-weather blues. Here are four ideal options for your next getaway—and a travel tip for each to make your trip even smoother.
One of the most accessible tropical locales for domestic vacationers, this state’s moderate climates offer consistent warmth throughout the year. You’ll find an enticing blend of culture, nature, and adventure here, whether you hit the theme parks of Orlando or take in the art deco flair of Miami Beach.
What makes it worth visiting: Florida’s diversity is its strongest selling point. The Florida Keys are a paradise for snorkeling and scuba diving, while Naples and Sanibel Island provide laid-back luxury amid white-sand beaches and tranquil sunsets. And in Miami, the vibrant nightlife, Latin American cuisine, and colorful neighborhoods add a cultural richness to your beach escape.
Travel tip: Book accommodations as early as possible for the holidays, especially for popular areas like Key West and Miami. Rates can skyrocket and availability can diminish quickly for Florida’s peak travel seasons.
With year-round sunshine, Arizona deserves a spot on your winter getaway list. The southern region, particularly around Tucson and Phoenix, boasts warm, dry winters perfect for outdoor exploration.
What makes it worth visiting: Arizona’s warmth is of a different kind—desert heat and sun. Such an environment may appeal to those seeking a mix of adventure and serenity. Hike through the red rocks of Sedona, explore Saguaro National Park, or tee off at one of the many award-winning golf courses. The dramatic desert landscapes and striking sunsets are uniquely therapeutic.
Travel tip: Pack layers! Though days can be sunny and warm, nights often drop in temperature. A light jacket or sweater can make your evening much more comfortable.
When it comes to classic tropical locales, the Caribbean reigns supreme. Each island lends its own charm—consider the reggae rhythm and waterfalls of Jamaica, the French flair of St. Martin, or the underwater wonders of the Bahamas.
What makes it worth visiting: Unparalleled beaches, lush rainforests, and mellow island lifestyles make the Caribbean an idyllic winter escape. You can choose to cruise between islands or settle into an all-inclusive resort, but either way, you’ll find relaxation and adventure in equal measure. And with over one hundred islands to choose from, there’s a destination for every type of traveler.
Travel tip: Travel insurance is essential. Caribbean weather can be unpredictable, and flight delays and cancellations are common. This safety net will give you peace of mind and financial protection in case your plans change.
Though commonly associated with summer travel, many Mediterranean spots like southern Spain, Greece, and the coast of Turkey remain pleasantly mild and sunny throughout winter. These locations offer a quieter, more authentic experience during the holidays.
What makes it worth visiting: The Mediterranean in winter has a certain charm—historic towns are less crowded, locals are more relaxed, and the scenery remains breathtaking. Enjoy tapas in Málaga, Spain, wander through ancient ruins in Athens, or sail along the Dalmatian Coast in Croatia. All provide a mild climate and rich cultural heritage, enabling you to escape the cold without sacrificing sophistication.
Travel tip: Look for shoulder-season discounts. Airlines and hotels often offer reduced rates in the period immediately following peak season, typically between November and March. You can enjoy luxury experiences at a fraction of the summer cost.
Whether you crave a beachside escape or city exploration, your holidays don’t have to be spent in the snow. Florida, Arizona, the Caribbean, and the Mediterranean each offer its own unique kind of warmth—climatic, cultural, or scenic. With thoughtful planning, you can trade your winter coat for a swimsuit and make this season your warmest yet.
