Material Sourcing: Linen, Terracotta, Oak
A guide to sourcing linen, terracotta, and oak for calm, textural interiors and creative spaces.
The materials we choose shape not only a space but how we experience it. I’m drawn to materials that feel honest, tactile, and timeless. Linen, terracotta, and oak are three that I return to again and again.
Linen - Soft Structure
Linen brings softness without excess. It holds light beautifully and introduces movement through texture rather than colour.
Where I use it:
curtains that diffuse daylight
table coverings
studio cloths and backdrops
bed linen
What to look for:
slightly irregular weave
washed finishes rather than crisp
natural tones (flax, off-white, muted grey)
Linen becomes better with time, creased, softened, lived-in. There is nothing quite like sleeping in a bed with freshly laundered sheet made of linen. It keeps you warm in winter and cool in summer. For bed linen, I would recommend Métis fabric.
Terracotta — Warmth & Weight
Terracotta grounds a space. Its colour carries warmth, but never feels overpowering.
Where I use it:
plant pots
vessels
sculptural accents
What to look for:
unglazed or matte finishes
subtle variations in tone
handmade irregularities
It connects interiors to the outdoors.
Oak - Quiet Strength
Oak has been a favourite of mine, since childhood. I have always heard that oak is the king of the woods. Oak brings structure and calm. It is strong without feeling heavy, and warm without being decorative.
Where I use it:
tables and work surfaces
shelving
frames and small details
What to look for:
natural or lightly treated finishes
visible grain
tones that sit between pale and honeyed
Oak anchors a space without dominating it. It is warm and grainy to the touch.
Sourcing Approach
I try to source slowly and intentionally:
local makers when possible
reclaimed or second-hand pieces
fewer, better items rather than many
Material sourcing is not just about aesthetics, it’s about longevity, sustainability, and feeling.
When materials are chosen well, they don’t need to shout. They create a quiet backdrop that allows life, work, and creativity to unfold naturally.