Out of Africa

Exotic interiors are as popular as ever and this summer designers are taking a trip OUT OF AFRICA with gorgeous tribal accessories and rich and colourful patters and prints that are sure to create warmth and fun in any room of the home. The textural African fabrics and bold patterns will create a focal point in the room and the marriage of neutral and bold colours create a perfect mix of modern and traditional style.

Opt for soft and natural colour palettes featuring cream, beige, chocolate and caramel that give a neutral backdrop in which to accent with more bright and bold hues. Select rich sunshine yellow, azure blue, red, purple and green and use these bold tones to create zoned areas of colour across your accessories and soft furnishings. Tribal print wallpapers will create a stylish feature on a feature wall or opt for natural rattan style panelling or a hanging wall tapestry for a more rustic savannah style feel.

Soft furnishings and upholstery are a key element in creating the perfect African inspired home interior as they create texture and warmth within your chosen space. Opt for natural fabrics such as cotton and linen across the room and create visual detail on a cream painted wall with some bold tribal print curtains that make a great alternative to a bold wallpapered area. Team this style of curtains with co-ordinating tribal cushions and woven throws or team with animal print designs for added pattern and luxury. If you prefer a more bold and colourful look then why not opt for some brightly coloured African Ankara print designs that will create an eye-catching feature on a bed or sofa area and can be paired with a co-ordinating rug for a bright and uplifting interior ambiance.

When choosing accessories for you home interior; opt for traditional African style items and ornaments that will create an authentic travel inspired feel in your chosen room. African wooden masks and plates will create a bold feature on a central feature wall or alcove area and can be hung in a singular or group formation for added detail. Wooden carved animal ornaments featuring elephants, zebra and antelope will look great displayed on a sideboard, table or windowsill, creating a focal point within your home. For an African lodge inspired dining area then take a selection of bold Ankara print and tribal crockery and team with a co-ordinating woven table cloth for a cosy space that is bold and inviting.

Select furniture items that are bold and rustic and try and opt for hand crafted designs where possible for an authentic African interior ambiance. Rich walnut furniture will create warmth and texture in your chosen room and will perfectly compliment the neutral tones of the painted interior backdrop. Woven furniture items such as cylindrical rattan tables and heavily carved filigree style cupboards and sideboards will give a traditional safari style feel to your room and can be teamed with bold patterned, painted items for a pop of colour that can be co-ordinated with your soft furnishings or accessories.

For more ideas on creating the perfect African inspired home interior, take a look at our latest Pinterest board – Pinterest – Out Of Africa.