#33 Africa & Ethnic-Chic Decor
A Blend of Escape and Sophistication
In interior design, there are probably as many styles as there are colors. Diverse and varied inspirations come from all corners of the world, each drawing on the unique aesthetic codes of their respective countries or cultures. South American interior design, for example, celebrates flamboyant colors—just like Indian design, for that matter—while Scandinavians tend to prefer more neutral tones and very clean, even minimalist, aesthetics. In their own way, all these interior design trends—whether African, Asian, South American, or Indian—are described as “ethnic” and often evoke a sense of travel.
Are you still with me? Because it doesn't stop there. In fact, even within these ethnic trends, there are notable differences, such as the style known as "ethnic chic" or "ethnic chic decor."
Ethnic-chic decor… What’s that?
Very much in vogue for the past few years,ethnic-chic or boho-chicdecorusually evokes high-quality, natural materials, as well as time-honored traditions that celebrate craftsmanship and handmade items. Interiors tend to be white or two-tone—in the latter case, earth-toned colors like beige, ecru, or very light brown—and dotted with decorative items brought back from various travels.
An example of ethnic-chic decor. Photo:Pinterest/Nomad Bubbles
Ethnic-chic decor, or a love of craftsmanship and handmade items
From furniture to handcrafted decorative items, the chic ethnic decor is designed to help you escape. Whether in the living room or the bedroom, you’ll find plenty of handcrafted details and accessories: natural wood, rattan, woven baskets, handmade baskets, seagrass rugs, wicker pendant lights, as well as raw materials like stone, polished concrete, or tadelakt, and fabrics in natural shades.
Ethnic-chic decor is an elegant, minimalist, and understated style that showcases artisanal and handmade pieces.
Ethnic-chic decor is all about ethnic patterns
While the ethnic-chic decor style tends to favor natural colors, it also likes to enhance the overall look with a few fabrics featuring highly graphic and visually appealing prints, including handcrafted Bogolan and Indigo fabrics.
Handwoven, hand-dyed, and hand-sewn, Bogolan and Indigo fabrics are traditional textiles from West Africa. While they are most often found in neutral shades—white, black, or ochre—Bogolan and Indigo fabrics can also be blue or green. Historically, the patterns and designs had specific meanings. Today, they are primarily decorative. These fabrics pair beautifully with minimalist interiors, as advocated by the “ethnic chic” decor style.
Ethnic pillows made from patterned fabrics. Photo: Instagram/@decortribal
In the form of ethnic-style throw pillows—but that’s not all… In chic ethnic decor, you’ll also find plenty of ethnic fabrics adorning the walls or covering the floor. Handcrafted wall hangings and rugs, once again featuring graphic and aesthetically pleasing ethnic patterns. Decorating ideas for a cozy, warm, and very trendy interior.
Oriental rugs, Bukhara rugs, Berber rugs—all waiting to be yours… Handwoven and hand-assembled, these artisanal pieces are one-of-a-kind, and each tells its own unique story. The bohemian style comes together in its own way.
The “Africa” Style
If you like the idea of ethnic decor inspired by Africa, you can certainly brighten up an interior decorated in natural colors with even more color. While Bogolan and Indigo fabrics feature relatively neutral colors, Wax—another type of African ethnic fabric—boasts patterns and designs in more vibrant hues.
Hand-dyed, this artisanal fabric is vibrant and graphic, perfect for creating a striking contrast with an ethnic-chic decor. Decorating ideas for an eclectic ethnic style.
Jungle Effect
When we talk about chic ethnic decor, we’re also talking about lush green plants. The greenery can be subtle—in small accents on the wall or in the form of small plants arranged on a table—or more striking, such as plants in large pots in the middle of the living room or at the foot of a bed, or even covering an entire wall with preserved plants…
Ultimately, to give your home an ethnic-chic look, opt for natural materials, artisanal pieces, handmade items, ethnic fabrics featuring beautiful patterns and designs, neutral colors, Bogolan and indigo fabrics, and ethnic throw pillows—and don’t forget to add a touch of greenery with a few houseplants or more! The result is a bohemian atmosphere that’s free-spirited and authentic.
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