The Art of Texture: Millwork & Surfaces That Made an Impact at the Toronto Design Show
- Aya Design in Style
- Mar 8
- 3 min read
Texture is more than just a visual element in design, it’s an experience. The way a surface feels, the way light interacts with different materials, and the warmth or coolness of a finish can completely transform how we engage with a space. At this year’s Toronto Interior Design Show, texture was a star player, inspiring us at Aya Design in Style to think beyond aesthetics and explore how millwork, wall treatments, and flooring can evoke emotion while balancing function and beauty.
As we moved through the show, we were captivated by the craftsmanship and innovation of Mercury Wood Products, Wood CA Designs, and Anatolia. Each brought a fresh perspective on how texture can shape an environment, making spaces feel more inviting, luxurious, or even dramatic.
The Emotional Power of Texture
One of the most striking takeaways from the show was how deeply texture influences the way we feel in a space. Mercury Wood Products showcased exquisite wood panels with natural, organic grains that instantly brought warmth and a grounding presence. Wood isn’t just a design choice, it’s an emotional one, evoking a sense of calm and connection to nature.
Wood CA Designs took this further with their sculptural wood applications, proving that millwork can be an artistic statement. Their intricate patterns and layered textures added depth, making walls and surfaces come alive with movement. It was a reminder that walls don’t have to be flat canvases, they can tell a story through texture.
On the other end of the spectrum, Anatolia introduced us to luxurious stone and tile treatments that combined classic elegance with modern innovation. Their high-performance porcelain options mimicked the richness of natural stone but with enhanced durability, proving that beauty and practicality can coexist effortlessly. The tactile nature of these materials, whether smooth, ribbed, or subtly weathered, adds a dynamic element to a room, creating contrast and balance.
The Balance Between Function & Beauty
Texture isn’t just about how something looks, it’s about how it works in a space. The show highlighted how the right materials can enhance acoustics, durability, and even well-being. Wood panels, for example, don’t just provide a warm aesthetic; they also improve sound absorption, making them ideal for both commercial and residential settings.
Meanwhile, Anatolia’s innovative wall and flooring solutions prove that high design doesn’t have to come at the expense of practicality. Their porcelain surfaces offer the refined beauty of natural materials without the upkeep, making them perfect for high-traffic areas.
At Aya Design in Style, we believe that a thoughtfully designed space should not only be visually stunning but also enhance how you feel and function within it. This year’s Toronto Interior Design Show reaffirmed that philosophy, showing us how the perfect balance of material, texture, and craftsmanship can elevate a space beyond aesthetics.
Final Thoughts
Walking through the show was a tactile experience, running our hands over deeply grained wood, feeling the cool elegance of stone, and noticing how different materials interacted with light. It was a powerful reminder that great design is not just something you see; it’s something you experience.
What textures speak to you the most? Whether it’s the warmth of natural wood, the luxury of stone, or the intricate details of sculptural panels, there’s no denying the impact that texture has in creating a truly immersive space.
If you're looking to incorporate texture into your next project, Aya Design in Style is here to help bring that vision to life.
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