If you had asked me in 2010 what my design style was, I would have said minimalistic. White walls, clean lines, an attractive focal point and barely any furniture. At the time, I saw beauty in moderation. But life has a way of teaching you that houses are not showpieces. They’re filled with memories, books, and the odd misplaced remote. I started to see the value of developing it as a place rather than trying to improve it.
That change started when I saw fashion designer Sabyasachi Mukherjee’s house in a magazine. It was beautifully chaotic, a masterclass in organized chaos, and it broke every rule I ever followed. That’s when I started looking at minimalism differently. Today, physical wetting feels like the next chapter in that evolution. It brings together the calmness of minimalism and the comfort of tact through layers of the same material. When used carefully, wood, stone or plaster can quietly define a space. This new cool luxury is about texture and warmth, not cold perfection.
understanding the concept
Material drenching is the idea of using one color in one space and giving it more depth by focusing on materials instead. Think of it as allowing different textures of the same material to speak together. A smooth marble floor, a matte countertop and a stone-textured wall can all belong to the same family yet feel completely different.
It’s all about layering. When you mix finishes and textures thoughtfully, the space begins to feel more personal and full of character. A wooden ceiling that mirrors the color of the floor or soft linen curtains next to a mud wall add instant warmth. This approach keeps a room minimal but still premium and rich, which is something that minimalism often misses.
psychology of harmony
Rashi Bothra, architect and designer, co-founder of Azure Interiors, tells HT Shop Now how she sees this trend.
“We see soaking up materials in our homes as a response to the collective need for peace, intimacy, and comfort. Encasing a space in one material, whether it’s stone, lime plaster, or wood, makes the design feel cohesive and grounded. This sense of uniformity removes visual clutter and creates a nurturing environment.”
She says texture changes how people connect with their space. “Equally important is the tactile quality of natural materials. Textures that are raw, earthy or softly crafted resonate deeply, engaging the senses and imparting a subtle therapeutic quality.”
His approach reflects how many homeowners feel today. After years of visual overstimulation, there is a growing desire for quiet spaces that restore balance.
texture as an art
How should you prevent a wet area from looking flat? Ruchi Gehani, co-founder of Azure Interiors, says, “The key is to discover the full potential of the material. We play with textures, finishes and scale. For example, wood can appear in many forms, from smooth polished panels to carved accents or slightly rustic finishes that highlight the diversity of grains.”
His talk about diversity impressed me. It’s not about repetition; It’s about rhythm. Ruchi points out that plaster can also go from a matte finish on walls to a slightly burnt finish on furniture. The same content can hold multiple moods when you understand its nature.
stability and timelessness
Designer Saba Kapoor, co-founder of Niwasa (a multidisciplinary luxury design firm), sees material drenching as a careful design approach.
“When you commit to one material, you become more thoughtful about where it comes from, how it ages and its entire life cycle,” she said. “We work extensively with reclaimed and regionally sourced materials, not only for their low environmental footprint but also for their sense of origin and story.”
His philosophy explains why this trend seems permanent. Using fewer ingredients with deep impact reduces wastage and each choice is deliberately chosen. As he said, “A space drenched in heritage oak or cool Corten steel will never chase trends. It will quietly evolve.”
How to spruce up your own space
If you want to experiment with this trend, start small. Pick one area, such as a powder room, study corner, or reading corner, and commit to a single material.
Here are some tips to keep in mind:
- Start with a small space, perhaps a powder room decorated with stucco or stone to create an intimate feel.
- Focus on texture rather than contrast by combining polished and matte finishes of the same material.
- Use light to highlight the surface and let it change throughout the day.
- Keep the rest of the decorations subtle so that the content stands out.
For me, the wetting of materials reshapes the meaning of minimalism. It’s not about taking things away but adding layers of meaning and touch. I have learned and seen that true design comes to life through texture, tactility and emotion. This approach feels more personal, where harmony replaces contradiction and peace replaces chaos.
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The author of this article has a master’s degree in interior design and has spent over a decade researching, teaching, and redesigning homes.
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