Key Takeaways
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Texture creates the cozy, layered look that defines fall decor.
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Adding fabrics like velvet, boucle and chunky knits are the easiest way to start.
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Rugs, natural elements and smaller accents add depth and warmth.
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Vary materials, finishes and heights for balance and interest.
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Warm lighting enhances the look and feel of textured surfaces.
When fall makes its debut, the living room truly becomes the heart of the home. It’s where we curl up with a blanket, host family movie night and sip hot cocoa after a chilly evening. And the secret to making this space feel truly cozy? Texture! Layering different materials, finishes and fabrics creates a sense of depth and warmth that instantly makes a room more inviting. The good news is that you don’t need to redecorate from scratch, and the decorating pros here at Third & Main are sharing a few texture layering tips for the coziest fall living room.
Why Texture Matters
Texture is the element of design that you feel as much as you see. In fall decor, this is what takes your space from flat and simple to layered and luxurious. Picture a room with smooth wood floors, a leather sofa and crisp cotton pillows. They all serve a purpose and they may be luxurious on their own, but together they can feel stark. Now, add a chunky knit throw, a woven basket and a velvet pillow, and suddenly the same space feels warmer, richer and ready for fall.
Start with Fabrics
The easiest way to bring texture into your living room is with fabrics. Consider layering in:
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Throws. Chunky knits, faux fur or fleece draped over the sofa.
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Pillows. Mix velvet, boucle, corduroy and embroidered cotton. Pro tip: varying sizes and patterns create dimension!
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Curtains. Swap lightweight summer linen for heavier drapes in earthy hues like rust, sage or oatmeal.
At Third & Main, our seasonal decor boxes often include pillows or throws designed to pair beautifully with your existing pieces. Even a single accent pillow in a plush fabric can set the tone for the entire room.
Add Warmth with Rugs
Rugs are another key player in texture layering. If your living room already has a jute or flatweave rug, consider layering a smaller patterned rug on top. The mix of textures grounds the space and adds visual interest. For fall, choose rugs in muted autumn tones—think terracotta, golden yellow or deep green.
Bring in Natural Elements
Nature provides endless texture inspiration, and there are so many options to play with. We love rustic wooden trays, lanterns and reclaimed wood side tables. Prefer stone or ceramic? Vases, bowls or coasters in these materials add weight and help ground the vignette.
Here at Third & Main, we’re huge fans of faux florals. For fall, wheat stalks, eucalyptus or pampas grass offer organic movement and dimension. True Bloom Floral, exclusively here at Third & Main, is especially versatile for fall. Pair our modern faux stems with a rough-textured ceramic vase or smooth glass jar for a striking contrast.
Layer Decorative Accents
Once you’ve set your foundation with fabrics and natural textures, look to smaller accents. Bronze, copper or matte black candlesticks are simple ways to bring in a metallic touch, while hurricane jars or lanterns with candles inside are classic glass elements. We also like wicker and rattan. Baskets are wonderfully versatile, adding texture and function when you use them for throws, logs or magazines. Remember, mixing shiny finishes with matte surfaces keeps the eye moving and adds richness to your space.
Play with Height and Layers
Texture isn’t just about the materials. It’s also about how you arrange them. Layer pillows in different sizes on your sofa, drape a throw across the arm and place a low basket filled with faux pumpkins beside it. Use trays to corral candles, books and greenery on your coffee table. The variation in height and placement makes your space feel thoughtfully styled rather than cluttered.
Light It Up
Don’t forget lighting! A room layered with texture deserves warm, ambient light to bring it all together. Swap bright overhead bulbs for soft white lamps or add lanterns to corners for a cozy glow. Candlelight, in particular, enhances the feel of textured surfaces and makes them more inviting.
Create Your Own Cozy Haven
Layering textures is all about balance. You don’t want every surface to be rough, heavy or patterned. Instead, aim for a mix: smooth against rough, shiny against matte, soft against structured. With this thoughtful layering, your fall living room will feel like a warm embrace every time you walk in. Here at Third & Main, our decor boxes and fabulous faux stems are curated to help you achieve this effortlessly. From chunky throws to seasonal accents, every item is chosen with layering in mind—so you can style with confidence.