African-styled ethnic interior design in modern-day home styling is often associated with exotic interiors. The style is embraced by creative and artsy people who love ideas that make them stand out "from the crowd".
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| An ethnic-style interior setting. (Image used under license from 123rf.com) |
Ethnic interiors are associated with bold patterns, textures, vivid earth tones, unusual forms, artwork, and some eccentricity.
Many believe ethnic designs are tribal. While many more think tribal designs connote ethnicity. They are all right in many ways. How? The ethnic decor is a beautiful mix of tribe, tradition, art, nature, and the elements.
How to Transform a Room Into an Ethnic Haven
Transforming an interior space into a stylishly-ethnic haven from scratch is simple. It is fun to put together because there are no rules per se, only three basic requirements typical of the theme.
- Natural (plants, jute, clay).
- Traditional (wood, fabrics, furniture).
- Art (carvings, sculptures, local art, handmade crafts, animal prints).
The requirements reflect the African cultural identity and traditions.
Assuming you already have the basic furniture all set in place: sofa, coffee table, armchair, side tables, dining set, etc., add some of the listed to enhance or upgrade the space to an ethnic-styled interior:
- African tribal mask (one large piece or a group of three smaller ones).
- Wall-hung talking drum.
- Handwoven rug with a tribal pattern.
- Large floor pillows (for sofa) - a mix of plain textured fabrics and African prints.
- Leather pouffs (footstools).
- Planters (terracotta, rattan, handwoven baskets).
- Display wood carvings, stone sculptures, and other small-size artefacts on surfaces (tables, stands, floating shelves).
- Faux animal skin throws.
- Large brass, copper, or clay urns.
- Lamp shades (made from local Ankara or loom-woven fabrics).
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| Bedroom design with a touch of ethnic. (Image used under license from 123rf.com) |
If the room is already styled contemporary (or modern), you can add tribal accents and complements. Add at least five items to create an aesthetically pleasing ethnic interior decor. This type of mix with a modern style works best for most.
Going totally ethnic may end up looking consuming and overwhelming. But there is no rule against going the whole nine yards. Some like it that way.
