THE MATERIALS MANIFESTO
Our homes are full of rich textures, from soft fabrics to tactile wood. Here’s our guide to what works where, and how to keep them looking their best
Which fabrics and textiles work best where
VELVET
Sumptuous velvet always sets a luxurious tone, but this fabric is also surprisingly adaptable. To make it look contemporary, take a more colourful approach than the traditional theatre-seat red. Jewel-like hues will add drama, while brighter shades feel cheery and welcoming. If you’re considering treating yourself to a velvet sofa, don’t be afraid to mix it in with your existing armchairs or footstools for an eclectic feel. Keeping velvet looking its best is simple: a little light vacuuming (with an upholstery attachment) and regular brushing is all it needs to maintain its softness.
LEATHER
A durable material that is easy to maintain, leather is a wise choice for furniture that is used every day. Sofas and armchairs in deeper tones, such as dark brown and black, will slowly develop their own patina over time as the fabric becomes worn in and acquires character. On the other hand, choosing leather in a lighter shade feels fresh and more contemporary and will make a subtler statement. When accessorising, treat leather as you would any other fabric – cotton cushions and wool throws will look smart in the mix.
Avoid wearing new dark-coloured clothes when sitting on light leather furniture, as clothing dyes can transfer on to the surface.
WOOL
This is a soft and cosy material to use throughout the home. It’s naturally insulating, so carpets made from pure wool feel especially comfortable underfoot. As well as being luxurious, pure wool carpets tend to last longer than flooring made from other materials, which makes the initial investment better value for money. Simple vacuuming will keep wool carpets looking good, but occasional use of a professional carpet cleaner is also advisable. Consult The Woolsafe Organisation to find accredited carpet cleaners near you.
COTTON
Perhaps one of the most adaptable fabrics, cotton is used for many everyday items from bath towels and bedding to curtains and cushion covers. On furniture, cotton is equally versatile as the fabric is available in endless printed motifs, colours and even textures. However, while cotton is a comfortable and cool option, it’s important to be careful to avoid any spills as stains can be particularly difficult to remove without expert assistance.
If your wool carpet develops a snag, simply chop either end very low to the ground. Give the surrounding fibres a quick brush, and you’ll never notice the difference! Zanzibar Deluxe pure wool carpet, £26.99 a sq m, Country Living at Carpetright Cotton is breathable in summer and feels cosy in winter, making it a good all-rounder for furniture and accessories alike.
GLASS
Glass is literally our window to the outside world, so always keep it sparkling clean. Windows and glass doors should be regularly checked to ensure they are in tip-top condition. Draughty windows can usually be sorted easily by resealing them or fixing the hinges, but if left they will continue to let cold air into your home and reduce heating efficiency. From drinking vessels to lighting, glass is something we use every day – in all instances, washing regularly with washing-up liquid and then drying by hand is the most effective way to keep it looking clean and clear.
WOOD
With a simple, pared-back look, wooden flooring works well in classic and contemporary homes alike. From oak and walnut to beech and maple, wooden flooring can be categorised into two main types. Hardwood flooring is made from solid pieces of wood and will last a lifetime, and engineered flooring uses thin layers of wood that are glued together and finished with a veneer. While the choice comes down to personal preference, there are a couple of differences to bear in mind. Hardwood floors can be refinished and sanded down to repair damage and breathe new life into them, but the floorboards can also expand in humid conditions so need maintenance. Less expensive than solid hardwood, engineered flooring is easier to look after.
Avoid using water and steam on wood floors; instead, keep clean with regular sweeping and vacuuming. Maximise natural light by keeping your windows spotless.
MARBLE
With a distinct luxe appeal, marble remains a firm favourite for kitchen countertops and splashbacks. While the material is heat-resistant and hard-wearing, it does involve maintenance. Be sure to use wooden chopping boards, spoon rests and coasters on your marble surfaces, as the porous material reacts to acid, oil and coloured liquids. Specialist sealing agents and cleaning detergents will help to keep marble looking its best, and its beautiful aesthetics are worth the effort. Accessorise with wooden details, ceramic vases and metallic utensils for a layered look.
LINEN
Relaxed, breathable and naturally hypoallergenic, linen is the perfect choice for bedding. It tends to look and feel better the longer it’s used, as the natural fibres take on an even softer feel every time you wash it. After air-drying linen sheets, there’s no need to iron them before placing them on the bed, as a casual, slightly rumpled look is part of the appeal. Avoid linen-blend sheets, which include cotton, if you want the full experience. While many retailers sell individual linen pillowcases and fitted sheets, look to brands such as the Chalk Pink Linen Company and Loaf, which ‘bundle’ their bedding together for better value.
CERAMIC
Ceramic tiles are an effective choice for the bathroom, as they’re easy to keep clean and naturally repel water, dust and grime. From statement designs to a rainbow of pretty colours, they are available in many different sizes and shapes – whether you use them all over or simply around the shower, they will create impact in any space. Try specialist retailers such as Claybrook, Bert & May and Original Style for the most interesting designs. For all their benefits, ceramic tiles don’t retain heat very well: if you find them a little chilly to walk on in the winter months, underfloor heating is an indulgent fix.