At our Design Studio, we are always thinking about how a room feels as much as how it looks. Colour and pattern may be the first things people notice, but it is texture that brings warmth, comfort and depth to an interior. One material we find ourselves returning to time and time again is wool.
We love using natural materials throughout our interiors, not only because they are durable, but because they develop character and wear beautifully over time. Wool has an honesty to it. Soft, tactile and incredibly hard-wearing, it has a natural richness and warmth that is difficult to replicate with synthetic fibres. It is also one of the most versatile materials we work with.
In Room 12 at Dorset Square Hotel, we chose to wrap the walls in a soft blue wool. As one of our smaller bedrooms, we knew the walls would inevitably come into contact with suitcases and the everyday knocks of hotel life, so it was important to choose a material that would stand the test of time. Wool’s durability made it the perfect solution, while its natural acoustic qualities help to absorb sound, creating a quieter, more restful atmosphere for guests.
Wool is also naturally resistant to creasing and holds its shape remarkably well, making it particularly well suited to hotel bedrooms. We often use it for bed valances, where its tailored finish helps a room feel crisp and considered. It is a small detail, but one that contributes to the overall polished feel of an interior.
Few things make a room feel more welcoming than a beautiful wool rug. Soft underfoot, wool also helps to soften acoustics, making a room feel calmer and more intimate. Its natural resilience means it can withstand everyday use while continuing to look beautiful, making it as practical as it is luxurious.
Wool also lends itself beautifully to craftsmanship. Unlike many woven fabrics, it does not fray easily, making it ideal for appliqué and embroidery. Its dense texture gives stitched designs a wonderful sense of depth and dimension, allowing each layer and detail to stand proud.
While colour and pattern may be the first things to catch your eye, it is often the warmth, texture and quiet comfort of materials that make a room feel welcoming and lived in. Wool is a timeless material that combines beauty with practicality, bringing a lasting sense of comfort to an interior.