Designing with Texture: Natural Materials That Elevate Outdoor Spaces
When it comes to creating an outdoor space that feels alive, texture speaks louder than color. It invites touch, creates contrast, and transforms even a simple layout into something layered and soulful. Texture is the foundation of a truly thoughtful design.
At Balè, every piece is handcrafted from natural materials chosen for their character and depth. From the sculptural grain of suar wood to the softness of linen, our designs celebrate materials that last. This guide explores how texture can shape your outdoor space into one that feels calm, connected, and effortlessly refined.
Why Texture Matters in Outdoor Design
Texture adds balance and life to a minimalist palette. In outdoor spaces where tones are often neutral, layers of texture prevent things from feeling flat or sterile. The contrast between smooth and rough, warm and cool, woven and solid brings depth and emotion to your design.
Natural materials, especially, evolve beautifully over time. The grain of wood deepens, linen softens, and woven fibers develop patina from sun and use. These changes are not imperfections—they are stories told through touch and time.
Suar Wood Grain: Sculptural and Organic
Native to Southeast Asia, suar wood is known for its striking grain patterns and color variation, shifting between rich chocolate and golden honey. Each piece of suar furniture feels unique, often featuring a live edge that follows the tree’s natural contour. This soft irregularity adds movement and warmth to any space.
Styling tip: Pair suar with matte stone or black accents to ground its richness.
Best for: Dining tables, benches, or large statement pieces.
Woven Rattan and Rope Weaves: Airy and Artisanal
Woven materials instantly bring a sense of craft and ease. Whether natural rattan or durable synthetic rope, weaving adds breathability and visual texture that feels both relaxed and refined.
At Balè, many of our stools and lounge chairs feature handwoven details inspired by Balinese traditions. They add a human touch that balances clean lines with softness.
Styling tip: Layer woven pieces with linen or cotton cushions for gentle contrast.
Best for: Lounge chairs, bar stools, and accent seating.
Raw Teak: Weathered, Wise, and Timeless
Teak is a cornerstone of outdoor design because it brings both durability and beauty. Its natural oils protect it from moisture while its unfinished texture celebrates the raw grain of the wood. Over time, teak transforms as its golden hue fades into soft silver, creating a timeless look.
At Balè, we let teak age naturally so its beauty deepens with every season.
Styling tip: Let teak weather for an organic grey patina, or lightly sand and oil to keep its golden glow.
Best for: Dining settings, lounge chairs, daybeds, and benches.
Linen Cushions and Natural Materials: Softness and Breathability
Linen brings softness to structured spaces. Its matte weave, light drape, and breathable texture invite you to relax. Unlike synthetic fabrics, linen feels cool in the heat and naturally ages into a buttery softness that only improves over time.
Styling tip: Choose sun-washed tones like clay, ecru, or sage to create harmony with natural woods.
Best for: Cushions, throws, and shade textiles.
Stone, Clay and Concrete: Cool Counterbalance
To balance the warmth of wood and fabric, introduce cooler elements like stone or concrete. Their tactile surfaces bring structure and contrast to outdoor layouts. A concrete-topped table or a hand-carved stone planter can add calm strength to softer settings.
Styling tip: Use a few statement pieces rather than many small accents for a more grounded look.
Best for: Planters, side tables, and sculptural decor.
Creating a Textural Palette Outdoors
Think of texture like rhythm. It needs variation to feel complete. Mixing materials with different sensations creates a space that feels dynamic yet cohesive. If your seating is open and woven, ground it with a solid wood table. If your layout feels structured, soften it with natural fabric or a textured rug. It’s all about creating balance through feel.
Balè’s Approach to Texture
For us, texture is the heart of design. Each Balè piece carries the mark of handcraft, the rhythm of the material, and the quiet imperfections that make it beautiful. No two are identical, and that’s the point.
When you choose Balè, you’re choosing furniture shaped by story, skill, and nature itself. Texture is what connects your home to the earth, and what makes every space feel lived-in and alive.