African Decor Syle - How to Get the Look
Contemporary Interior Decorating: Textures, Color and Furniture
Nov 4, 2009
Africa is a vast continent sprawling from Egypt and Morocco in the North down to South Africa, Namibia and Mozambique in the south. While each and every country has its own unique style, interior design ideas usually incorporate neutral, earth tones combined with vibrant splashes of color.
If one is interested in decorating African style, it may be worthwhile to research a specific country, such as Morocco, to get the style as authentic as possible.
African Decor - Less is More
Contemporary African decor is not about cluttering a room with masks, tables, chairs, pictures and carved wooden ornaments or statues.
Consider tiling the floor with sandstone tiles or terracotta tiles. Plain concrete floors that have been treated and stained are also very popular these days in Southern Africa, and are very cool in a hot climate. Thick sisal mats work well on top of this type of flooring.
Paint walls a neutral shade of beige, brown or cream, with perhaps one wall or two opposite walls painted in a rich terracotta or clay color. Textured paints have become very popular, choose a paint that, once painted on the wall, has a rough, sandy texture to it.
Choose chairs and sofas in chocolate brown or neutral shades and accent with an animal print throw or cushions. Fabric for window treatments or throws can be found cheaply at almost any decor store. African tribal patterns are very appealing when incorporated as a throw or as a wall hanging.
Choose one or two particularly beautiful African carvings or a chair or ottoman, and allow it to be the centerpiece or talking point where the visitor's eye will be drawn. The home owner does not want people to be confused and blinded when they walk in.
African baskets and basket weaving, batiks, masks and/or sculptures are part of Africa. Once again, use these items sparingly to accent a room.
African Safari Decor
To get an idea of African Safari decor, have a look at some safari lodges online. Private game reserve Thula Thula, for example, showcases classy, contemporary African decor.
Sabi Sabi Game Lodge will give the decorator an idea of textures, colours and less-is-more African decor, with an emphasis on a natural, peaceful feel.
Whether decorating an entire house or choosing just one room to decorate, African decorating is not difficult to replicate but if the task seems overwhelming, it may be an idea to ask a professional interior decorator for help or advice.
More Articles on Africa that may Interest the Reader:
Egyptian Nile Cruise Holidays: A look at the best way of visiting historical sites in Egypt from the comfort of cruising down the Nile.
Morocco's Luxury Hotels in Marrakesh: This article examines some of the boutique hotels found in Morocco and gives the reader a glimpse into this fascinating culture.
Ever wondered how to make a typical meal from Africa? Try these recipes: African Meal from Starters to Desert
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