Tribal Chic That’s Chic

Happy Africa Day!

If you much like I am, dear reader, are a design snob then you have watched Jerseylicious and other television nightmares set at “Safaris” or somewhere in Africa with disdain at how bad and pedestrian the décor is.

eclectic living room design by portland photographer KuDa Photography

Every trend stalker, decoratti and set dresser worth their salt knows that the only people that ever do tribal décor in that crass manner are to be found in the Southern states of a certain first world country that shall remain nameless and other places where good taste goes to play bingo.

Insert know-it-all-colonial-tone here.

Where tribal décor and prints are concerned less is actually more. A minimalist approach to this is the way to go.

modern kitchen design by new york interior designer Tara Seawright

Avoid ending up with a themed room by keeping your tribal pieces impactful but not overwhelming.

This is where artwork and art pieces become your best friend. A beautiful painting coupled with a rug or couple scatter cushions have as much impact as a giant spear, feathers, masks and animal printed chair. It’s just that the former looks better and feels much more authentic.

eclectic kitchen design by minneapolis photographer nick gorski

contemporary living room design by san diego photographer Chipper Hatter Architectural Photographer

It is in no way expensive, unless instead of buying a faux cow skin rug you actually buy the real thing. And because the world is so diverse (especially Africa) most print patterns will pass as tribal décor.

eclectic living room design by san francisco media and blogs SFGIRLBYBAY

Living where I live I have quite a lot of options should I desire to explore Tribal chic:

As done in the image below I could pick up a simple lampshade and take it down to the market and have henna painted on it. Not only will I have one of a kind piece it’ll also be affordable a simple.

traditional living room design by chicago media and blogs Kasey Buick

Vases are the best way play around with tribal décor, they are small enough to go unnoticed when empty and become the centre of attention when filled.

eclectic hall design by other metros Safari Fusion

A rare piece of antique furniture is also a great way to go.

eclectic powder room design by denver interior designer Danielle Wallinger

Feeling like animal print in you boudoir? Try something temporary like an animal print duvet instead of a wall mural and masks.

contemporary bedroom design by dallas interior designer Emily Johnston Larkin

Tribal can be chic when done right.

Let’s support African design.