“I believe every home should embrace velvet in some way,” says our very own founder and director, Juliette Thomas. As an award-winning interior designer, Juliette has worked with a fair few fabrics throughout her career, though none hold a special place in her heart quite like this one. And, from sumptuous sofas to luscious lampshades, there’s no doubt her extensive collection of luxury furniture reflects that sentiment. Here’s our complete guide to using velvet in interior design, illustrated with some fabulous pieces available here at Juliettes Interiors.
What are the different types of velvet?
So, let’s take a closer look at our favourite fabric. Velvet is defined by a dense, short pile of fibres, evenly cut to create a soft, smooth surface. It’s wonderfully versatile, and can be made in all kinds of colours, materials and textures. This makes velvet a particularly great interior design choice for all kinds of reasons. There are many different types to choose from, each with its own unique qualities and uses…
- Crushed Velvet: This type of velvet has a textured look achieved by pressing the fabric in different directions, for a crushed or crinkled effect. It reflects light differently, giving it a shimmery finish.
- Velvet Cord: Raised lines or ridges are used to create a textured look similar to corduroy. It’s particularly great in retro style homes, offering a striking, yet inviting focus when used for larger pieces.
- Embossed Velvet: Embossed velvet features raised patterns or designs established by cutting the pile shorter in certain areas. This creates a stamped or embossed look, and ornate visual effect.
- Devoré Velvet: Also referred to as burnout velvet, the fabric is treated with chemicals to dissolve fibres in some areas, creating a semi-transparent or sheer pattern contrasted against a denser background.
- Printed Velvet: Patterns and designs are printed onto the fabric’s surface, offering a wide range of decorative options. To find out more about our bespoke furniture making service, click here.
- Stretch Velvet: With added elastane or spandex fibres, stretch velvet offers flexibility – perfect for form-fitting upholstery such as seat covers.
- Plain Velvet: Also known simply as flat velvet, this type has a smooth and even pile and is available in a wide range of fibres, making it a great choice for all sorts of applications.
Silk velvet vs cotton velvet
Woven with silk fibres, silk velvet is incredibly luxurious and super soft and smooth in texture. It often has a rich, luminous sheen and is most commonly used in high-end interior design. On the other hand, cotton velvet has a softer pile and more matte appearance compared to silk, often allowing it to absorb the light for a dramatic effect.
What does velvet do to a room?
A fabric long favoured for its exquisite quality, eye-catching allure, and satisfying feel, velvet is inherently opulent. “The rich, sumptuous texture offers a sense of luxury and elegance, with the soft sheen and smooth finish creating a visual appeal that will elevate the overall aesthetic of any room,” Juliette says. Whether you choose small or larger pieces, velvet interior design is ideal for adding depth in homes classic to contemporary.
At Juliettes Interiors, all of our designs are fully customisable. This allows you to choose the perfect size, fabric and colour for each space. For more information about our bespoke furniture design service, click here.
How is velvet used in interior design?
When used properly, velvet can be a rather powerful interior design tool. Its tactile nature means it’s particularly perfect for furnishings that are most likely to be touched. Meanwhile, its ability to either reflect or absorb light – depending on the type of velvet you choose – provides a striking visual. Velvet is also coveted for its exceptional comfort; its plushness creates a cosy and inviting feel, perfect for sinking into after a busy day. All of this works to stimulate the senses and enhance the overall experience a person has within that space. And there are many ways it can be used…
- Furniture Upholstery: Due to its rich texture, velvet adds depth and visual interest to furniture to create a stunning focus.
- Curtains and Drapery: As a denser fabric, opting for velvet curtains will aid in blocking out light whilst creating a sense of drama and luxury.
- Cushions and Throws – Accenting a bed or sofa with velvet can instantly elevate a room’s aesthetic whilst making it more comfortable and inviting.
- Headboards: A velvet head board will instantly bring a sense of luxury to the bedroom, drawing the eye to its most important feature.
- Walls: Velvet or ‘flock’ wallpaper enhances the sensory experience of a room in addition to its opulence and sophistication.
- Accessories: Lampshades, frames and trinket boxes are great for adding just a touch of texture, and can be used to style with ease.
What patterns go with velvet?
In interior design, velvet can be combined with all kinds of patterns to different effects. For example, subtle, tone-on-tone damasks or intricate paisleys convey all of its grandeur without overwhelming a space. On the other hand, florals will help to create a sense of romance, particularly in vintage and traditional style homes. So it really is up to you. That being said, keep in mind you’re aiming for balance. Think about the colour palette, and decide whether you want to create contrast or echo another element within the space. If you’re considering clashing prints, it’s important to establish complementary patterns first. Doing so will ensure they work harmoniously rather than fight for attention!
What materials go with velvet?
Much like with patterns, velvet pairs well with a wide range of materials for a creative and balanced interior design composition. Juxtaposing its plush texture with contrasting materials helps to add depth and interest to a space. For a more refined look, combine velvet with metallic accents. Polished brass, gold gold chrome will play off its lustre to elevate a room’s opulence, whilst rich, natural materials like wood and marble will contribute to a luxurious yet grounded aesthetic. In addition, combining velvet with other soft fabrics such as silk and satin can enhance the level of comfort and elegance. Matte-textured linen and wool works to highlight velvet’s stunning sheen.
Velvet is a perfect choice for blending of comfort, elegance and style. A luxurious look and feel, combined with versatility and durability, makes it a timeless option for all interior design projects. An opulent collection of bespoke and designer homeware, our stunning range of products offers glamour and uniqueness, with each piece meticulously crafted to meet the specific requirements of every homeowner.
Click here to view the full range of luxury velvet furniture at Juliettes Interiors.
If you are looking to enhance your home with velvet but don’t know where to start, get in touch to discuss our luxury interior design service.
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If you need help choosing your luxury furniture, our design team is always on hand. For advice on sizes, colours, fabrics and finishes, or to design the perfect space for you, contact us.
