What is texture?
When we talk about texture in the design space, it refers to a) the surface quality of a material and b) how that material can be experienced through touch or observation.
Texture is that one design element that can bring warmth, depth, and personality to a space. Whether you are talking about a room or a tablescape, without textural variety, even the most beautiful table setting can feel flat, one-dimensional, and uninspiring.
There are two different categories of texture: tactile texture and visual texture. Tactile texture refers to the physical experience of a material, or how it feels to the touch. Think of the roughness of a distressed wood table or the silky smoothness of a satin table runner.
Visual texture describes how a surface appears to the eye. For example, a laminate table may have a smooth surface, but visually it imitates the rich woodgrain pattern of a planked elm table.
Textured flatware for your table
From the tablecloth and cloth napkins to the centerpiece and dishes, every part of a table setting is an opportunity to create a unique aesthetic. One of the easiest ways to lend texture to your table settings is with your flatware.
At INOX Artisans, our selection of handcrafted textured flatware settings is second to none. Whether you’re shopping for flatware sets for 8 people or more, when you shop our selection of textured flatware, you can be sure to find a design that will add depth, character, and life to your table.
Textured flatware with its rough, hammered handles appears heavier because it has more visible detail and depth. Textured surfaces also absorb more light, creating a warm, earthy aesthetic.
The raw, nascent handles of the Ridge flatware collection tend to absorb light, contributing to a grounded, more substantial feel.
Designers use texture to add balance and contrast. Pairing different textures instantly adds contrast, while balancing textures allows for cohesiveness. It’s all about mixing smooth with rough, soft with hard, and glossy with matte.
The combination of high-gloss utensils with hammered handles gives the Ridge textured flatware a cohesive balance that allows it to enhance any table setting.
The textured handles of the hand-forged Medicki flatware absorb light, adding to the warmth of the vintage gold finish. The rustic gold handles are an eye-pleasing contrast to the cooler green tones of the plates.
Vinear flatware has organic round handles with linear grooves, enhancing visual interest and grip. The high-shine, hand-polished, smooth utensils are the perfect contrast. Available in flatware sets for 8, the Vinear textured design makes a unique statement for casual or formal gatherings.
Reflective surfaces balance the light on a table, adding an expansive feel...
A modern minimalist setting emphasizes the sleek, smooth texture of the Sundance PVD bronze flatware collection.
Camellia PVD bronze flatware is smooth and feels well-balanced in the hand. The PVD finish gives these flatware settings a luxurious lustre.
In decorating, adding texture is about combining a variety of textures to create visual interest. Mixing textures is also important because it adds dimension and allows different elements to “play” with one another.
This combination of copper flatware is the perfect example of different textures complementing each other. The textured flatware settings shown are Celia and Twisted Urban.
What about color?
While texture and color are two separate elements, layering different textures and colors on your table setting will create depth and interest.
If you have a rough fabric or material, it will tend to absorb more light, so the color will appear warmer, while shiny surfaces reflect more light, making them appear lighter.
While color is a separate element from texture, black is sort of an exception to the rule. The smooth matte black handles of our Twig flatware design bring attention to the wavy silhouette of the handles. Black enhances the vibrancy of other colors and, when combined with the green and white plates, creates a sort of visual texture.
Texture brings our artisan flatware settings to life
Never underestimate the power of texture in design. It’s the secret ingredient that can transform a flat, one-dimensional room into a vibrant space. Just as texture brings a room to life, it also adds character to our artisan flatware settings, allowing you to create inviting table arrangements.
We invite you to explore our textured flatware designs. Whether you’re looking for a 20-piece flatware set for your home, need flatware sets for 8 for your event planning business, or have questions about placing a bulk order, please feel free to reach out to us. We’re happy to assist you!