Stine Find Osther Vice President of Design at Kvadrat, who has worked for 17 years in product development, delves into how thoughtful textile choices can profoundly transform a space's aesthetics and functionality.

 

Understanding the role of color in textiles 

Color profoundly impacts both the visual and emotional atmospheres of spaces, serving as a foundational element in textile design that dictates mood, style, and cohesion within an environment. 

"Color is incredibly important. You can completely change the look of an interior depending on how you work with color," explains Stine.
  • A modern living room with large windows showcasing a lush green forest view. The room includes a light green Connect Soft Modular Sofa, a small blue side table, and a white ribbed pendant light, creating a serene reading corner.

Muuto’s approach to color, incorporating both vibrant hues and refined neutrals, mirrors that of Kvadrat—emphasizing color's significant role in both functionality and visual appeal through deliberate color usage.

Techniques like melange, a fabric made from yarns of mixed colors, create a subtle, multi-tonal effect, and are used by Kvadrat to enrich textiles with depth and durability.

"Each grey in Kvadrat’s textile selection is developed specifically for that product, offering diversity while maintaining consistency," explains Stine.

 

 

A reading nook showcasing a textured gray armchair by a window, paired with a wooden coffee table and a neutral rug,.
A geometric tan-colored ottoman and a light gray fabric block on a textured yellow rug, highlighted by natural sunlight.

The significance of tactility and form

The texture and form of textiles are crucial in how furniture pieces are perceived and interacted with, significantly influencing the comfort, aesthetics, and overall user experience. This dynamic interplay between the melange fabric and soft shapes enhances the tactile quality of the fabric, inviting engagement and touch. 

"Soft shapes are wonderful for textiles, especially melange fabrics because the curves allow the fabric to play with light and shadow," notes Stine.
Close-up view of a beige textured sofa adorned with two pillows in soft green and brown.
Outline Sofa 3-Seater in Ecriture 240/Polished Aluminum - Enfold Sideboard 186x45 H48 cm in Deep Red - Pebble Rug 200x300 cm in Burnt Orange - Soft Side Table in Dusty Green - Post Floor Lamp in Black - Midst Table Ø120 cm in Dark Red - Rime Pendant Lamp Ø45 cm in Black - Workshop Chair in Oak

Tips for selecting the right textiles 

Selecting the right textiles goes beyond aesthetic choices, involving a deep understanding of the material’s interaction with its environment and intended use. "Consider the purpose of the furniture. What kind of traffic will it endure?" Stine advises, ensuring that the textiles not only add beauty but also withstand daily demands. Stine also encourages a bold approach to textile selection. 

"It’s rare to regret making a bold choice, but many people regret playing it too safe."

Best-selling textiles   

If you're looking for inspiration from textiles that resonate most with our customers, here are the top three best-sellers, explained in Stine's own words why they are popular and endure: 

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Durability and care for your textiles 

Durability is a cornerstone of both Muuto’s and Kvadrat’s design philosophy. She explains, "For Kvadrat, when we develop a textile, we make over 100 specific decisions before we finalize the product." This meticulous attention ensures that each textile not only meets aesthetic standards but also stands up to the rigors of daily use. 

To ensure the lasting beauty of your textiles, it’s essential to consider their care, particularly in how they maintain color and resist pilling. Regular vacuuming is recommended as part of the maintenance routine to keep the textiles clean and prolong their life. Following the specific cleaning guidelines provided for each textile will also help prolong their life and appearance, ensuring they remain a cherished part of your interior for years to come. 

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