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How to Create Stylishly Ethnic Bedroom Designs

Ethnic or tribal (two words, same thing) interior decor offers various style potentials that are not necessarily restricted to African, North American, or Australian native themes. Many people generally believe that ethnic designs are tribal, while many more believe that tribal designs connote ethnicity. They are all right in many ways.

Stylish ethnic bedroom theme.
(Image used under license from 123rf.com)

In modern-day interior styling, the concept of the ethnic interior layout can often be associated with the exotic. From subtle earth tones to rough textures, vivid colours, and elaborate patterns, ethnic decor is a beautiful mix of tradition, art, nature, and native elements.


Turn your Bedroom Into an Ethnic Haven


Transforming a bedroom into a stylishly tribal haven from scratch is simple and fun to put together because there are no rules per se. The basic requirements typical of the theme are:

  • Natural (plants, jute, clay)
  • Traditional (wood, fabrics, furniture)
  • Artsy (carvings, sculptures, local art, handmade crafts, animal prints).

If your bedroom is already designed contemporary or modern, then all you require are tribal accents and complements. These include many items in the above list, enough to make an impact (if you wish for a dramatic style).


Points to note:
  • Unless you want to create an eclectic-styled bedroom, try not to combine elements from different cultures. For instance, if you wish to go for African, combining it with Mexican or Native American will give the space an undefined (and unrefined) look.
  • Do not over-clutter the space unless again, you desire eclectism. The best look is minimalism.


Examples of Ethnic-Style Themes


Different tribal communities often reflect their cultural identity and traditions in homes, furniture, and furnishings. And in fashion as well.

In the examples below (assuming you already have a bedroom set-up and only wish for a room enhancement or makeover), if you already have the basics, a bed, nightstands, and a dresser unit, choose one of the themes, and enhance or upgrade the room with some of its listed elements.

African

  1. A wall-mounted African tribal mask.
  2. Wall-hung talking drums.
  3. Handwoven rug with tribal patterns.
  4. Large floor pillows covered in rustic textiles or African prints.
  5. Leath pouffs (as footstools).
  6. Display of small-size artefacts on surfaces (tables, stands, floating shelves).
  7. Simulated stone or hardwood floor coverings.
  8. Faux animal skin.
  9. Handwoven baskets.
  10. Wood carvings and sculptures.
  11. Brass, copper, or terracotta urns.
  12. Pendant, floor, and table lamp shade covers, that are made with local Ankara or loom-woven fabrics.
Add no less than four of the items to create an aesthetically pleasing ethnic bedroom decor.

Japanese

  1. Umbrella-art-inspired ornaments.
  2. Oriental hanging lanterns and table lamps.
  3. A two-panel foldable screen with oriental features.
  4. Traditional Japanese plants like bonsai or bamboo.
  5. Tabletop water feature (elements of water are popular in Japanese homes).
  6. Simulated bamboo wood or stone flooring (for makeovers).
  7. Bamboo window shades.
  8. Sheer and gauze fabrics for curtain panels.
Japanese style revolves around a clean, orderly, and uncluttered look, with all elements set together in a balanced order. For an oriental inclined ethnic bedroom décor, use a low bed with side cabinets and a chest and introduce some of the furnishings listed above.

Mediterranean 

  1. A white backdrop of walls with the focal wall textured.
  2. Wrought iron light fixtures - sconces, table, and floor lights.
  3. Moroccan (Berber) rugs.
  4. Wall tapestry.
  5. Wrought iron chandelier.
  6. Throws with geometric patterns and vibrant colors.
  7. Wall art with images of Mediterranean scenery.
The Mediterranean style is primarily a fusion of several different sub-styles influenced by the colourful and classic Spanish, the Greek hues of blue, turquoise, and white, the Old-world charm of the Italians, and the bold influence of the Moroccans.

Indian 

  1. Handwoven Ikats textiles and upholstery.
  2. Indian embroidered cushion covers.
  3. Wood floor lamp.
  4. Ottomans and footstools.
  5. Colourful lanterns.
  6. Ethnic wood bedside tables.
  7. Copper vases.
  8. Silk cushion covers and ethnic cotton bedcovers.
  9. Traditional India/Kashmiri rugs.
  10. Glasswork and ceramic vases.
  11. Brocade upholstery.
Indian designs with rich colours and exotic textures add intriguing effects to their cultural decor.


Mixing Different Themes


Combining styles can be dicey (except for eclecticism) and if you don't know how to pull it off, it is best to keep it simple. Do not combine Moroccan with Asian or Hispanic. Morocco is in Africa, so if you want a mix, it's best to keep it African. A good one is Moroccan with a dash of Safari East Africa.

Also, a blend of American prairie with Latin American basics will give a surprisingly stylish look, the same with a combination of Native American and Prairie.


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