Sense & Sensibility: Texture & Pattern in Architecture & Design

Architecture is often celebrated for its form and space, structural genius and aesthetics. However, another profound layer of communication lies in the textures and patterns that adorn our built environment. Beyond color, textures and patterns enrich our surroundings, evoking emotions and engaging both our sense of touch and sight. When we observe a pattern, we can often imagine its tactile quality, establishing an intimate connection with the material.

Our interaction with the environment extends beyond sight to include touch, smell, and temperature. Our hands, with their multitude of nerve endings, enable us to experience our surroundings in an intimate way. Whether it's the cool smoothness of a polished marble countertop or the rugged texture of leathered stone, the sense of touch allows us to form a deeper and even emotional connection with the space.

Texture has been a significant tool in various architectural styles, including brutalism and regionalist schools among others. Brutalist architecture, known for its raw, exposed concrete, uses texture to emphasize the material's innate qualities. In contrast, the regionalist architecture that evolved from traditional adobe and stucco structures, particularly prevalent in California, showcases the versatility and tactile appeal of these materials. Stucco, in particular, is a material appreciated for its ease of use and versatility. Though often considered pedestrian, stucco offers a rich tactile experience that connects us to the traditional and contemporary architectural narratives of the region.

In interior design, fabrics and upholstery play a crucial role in creating a sense of warmth, luxury, and comfort. The tactile quality of materials like velvet, linen, or leather can evoke a nurturing and inviting atmosphere. These elements transform a space, making it not only visually appealing but also physically comforting.

Architectural renderings that we so often rely on to convey?the vibe of a project, often seduce us with their sleek reflections of glass and metal. However, the true sensory experience of these materials can only be fully appreciated in person and in real life.? Have you ever touched a cold stone counter at the bank, or run your fingers over a chalky stucco wall? Sunken deep into a leather chair or felt the sun trickle into the room through a linen curtain on a late summer day? Listened to the clinking of heels on a tiled floor in?one of?those art deco skyscrapers? Or how a carpeted velvety theater interior creates that sound sink the moment you enter? Or slipped on the worn out stair?treads?of Villa Borgese in Rome? Well, I have managed to twist my ankle too, but that's a whole other story...?

As architects and designers, we must recognize this important role of texture and pattern in our work. These elements transcend mere form and function, engaging our senses and fostering a deeper connection with our surroundings. By thoughtfully integrating materials and textures, we can elevate architecture from a purely physical experience to one that resonates emotionally and sensorially, creating spaces that truly feel alive and nurturing.

Before we continue discussing some examples of texture, perhaps we should look around us. Like what have you touched today even in your car. It's crazy how much out of our bodies we are these days, glued to our screens and just out of it. Texture and pattern in architecture brings us out of ourselves and into reality.?

In our own work here at Plana, we've used concrete and glass for our concept proposal for 136 El Camino. We were inspired by Tadao Ando's signature smooth, polished concrete. This concrete is not rugged but silky smooth almost like milk, and it has often been associated with the woodwork craftsmanship of the forms. Even though the project took a different path, this study of concrete inispired us to think about this more subtle gentle side of this material.?

In our interior work we strive to use natural materials like stone and wood and fabrics that evoke calmness and comfort. I think it's also important to note that sometimes the most modest materials like tile, siding and even plywood hold such potential and depth. Even bodies of water and landscaping add texture and visual effects like reflectivity and veiling.?

In both architecture and interiors,?the thoughtful use of texture and pattern can transform a space, making it more engaging and emotionally resonant. Whether through the roughness of exposed concrete, the softness of leather, or the intricate patterns of a tile floor, these elements enrich our sensory experience, creating interiors that feel both visually appealing and physically inviting.