Creating a 'tension' in interiors – combining the rough with the smooth, perfect and destroyed, matt and glossy, no colour and intense colour - is an interesting idea, but in practice it's easy to get wrong. When done right, the result is strangely beguiling and unusual. Here's our top five tips for creating the right kind of tension!
1. Don't overwhelm the space
Achieving creative tension is not about overwhelming your space with a violent mix of texture and colour. It can be as simple as a display of white ceramics en mass. This look is all about sophistication. Quietly make a impact by mixing shapes and surface texture.
2. Bold opposites
If you’re thinking of introducing a bolder opposite in an all white scheme it should be a flash and in a place you might not expect it – such as the back of an alcove or a skirting board
3. Playing with textures
A calming juxaposition of old and new, patterned and plain, woven and plain, rough and smooth textures can really enliven an all white bedroom. Make the bed the focal point of your scheme and select a few key accessories to tie the look together.
4. Red alert
Stair treads painted in Crown Flame Red; walls in Crown Winterbloom
Red is the perfect colour for creating tension as a small amount is enough to make a bold statement. In an all white scheme just one single red vase, a pair of red shoes or even just one tread on a stairs painted red is enough to do the trick.
5. White on white
Using several shades of white on walls and furniture introduces creative tension but is an easy thing to live with. Splashes of pretty pastels is enough to subtly bring the scheme to life.
