5 Ways to Incorporate Primary Play into Your Interiors

A Textural Take on Primary Play 

If you thought Primary Play was all about colour, think again! According to Emma Morley from trifle*, texture is just as important in creating a well-balanced space. Combining materials like soft matt fabrics with shiny surfaces helps the eye travel comfortably across the room, adding dimension and interest without feeling overly intense. 

Emma recommends starting with fewer colours if you’re experimenting with high-contrast textures, as this keeps everything balanced. Whether you're styling your space for a bold maximalist vibe or something more understated, textural contrasts add that extra layer of sophistication.

Here are five easy ways to introduce some Primary Play magic into your space:

Go all-in by colour drenching your walls, ceilings, and even furniture in a single vibrant shade. Bold blues, radiant reds, and sunny yellows are the stars of this trend. By using one primary colour as a foundation, you can build a cohesive yet striking look that completely transforms your room. 

To tone things down, balance bold primary colours with neutrals; it's a great way to keep things vibrant without feeling overwhelmed. Whether it’s a completely yellow room or a red dining space offset by natural wood, this technique adds energy while maintaining a chic vibe.

Pro Tip:

Pair colour drenching with contrasting textures like glossy paint finishes with matte furniture to add depth without overstimulating the eye.

Don’t underestimate the power of your doors! Door murals in primary colours are a standout way to introduce Primary Play into your space without renovating a whole room. 

Experiment with hand-painted patterns like checkerboards, stripes, or geometric shapes to give your doors personality. A bright, patterned door instantly creates a design focal point and sets the mood for playful interiors. 

Want to take it further? Swap out plain knobs for quirky, colourful alternatives to amplify the fun. 

If you’re not ready to overhaul your walls or furniture, a statement rug can be your perfect starting point. Rugs are also more versatile, as easy to swap out as they are to add interest to neutral interiors. 

For the ultimate Primary Play vibe, look for hand-made rugs with bold patterns or checkerboard designs. The YANTRA rug by Kangan Arora, for example, combines vibrant primary colours with an offbeat pattern, perfect for adding vitality to your living room or bedroom. 

Why it Works:

Rugs provide a textural anchor for the space. Combine with matt floors or shiny surfaces to create a sensory experience that feels dynamic yet cohesive.

It’s the little details that make a big difference! Add contrasting trims to curtains, pillows, or even furniture to introduce that playful twist associated with Primary Play. 

Think bright red piping on a blue cushion, or yellow trim on a natural linen curtain. These pops of colour feel intentional and can be a subtle nod to boldness without dominating the space. Plus, they’re low-commitment, making it super easy to swap things when your style evolves. 

Bonus Idea:

Mix and match textures here too! A velvet blue sofa with a brightly trimmed cushion in linen adds just the right amount of playful contrast.

Bring back the nostalgia of art classes with hand-painted furniture! Whether it’s a desk painted in geometric blocks of primary colours or a set of chairs dipped in bold stripes, this DIY touch adds charm and loads of personality. 

Furniture painting is also a sustainable way to repurpose an old item. Give that tired cabinet or stool a makeover and enjoy a totally one-of-a-kind piece. 

Where to Start:

Cupboard doors, side tables, or even large furniture like wardrobes make perfect candidates for hand-painting. Check out pint-sized tester paints for experimenting with colour combos before committing to a look.

Whether it’s a checkerboard rug grounding your space or a hand-painted door inviting you into a bold new world, Primary Play is all about blending fun, nostalgia, and modern design. It’s the perfect excuse to get creative and turn your space into a vibrant reflection of your playful side. 

Need help finding the perfect rug or inspiration for your Primary Play project?

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