Interior Design Trend: Animal Prints

The use of animal prints within interior design and in fact fashion has been an annual recurring theme; sometimes the style of prints are updated or reinvented but it is commonly known as a fail-safe chic style to implement within a room set.

Sometimes referred informally as 'Africa chic', use of animal and ethnic patterns is generally referred to as one of the most widespread seasonal trends within interior design. Industry experts would agree with this statement.

Along with the commonly acknowledged zebra, leopard and tiger skin prints, other ethnic styles include ikat prints, use of earthy palettes and chunky embroidery with a disordered finish. The types of materials used are combinations of linen, raw cotton and wool.

To avoid animal prints making a room look cluttered or too busy, use sparingly: it is recommended to use the print on a monochrome background. Implementing animal prints within the room's curtains or cushions will be sufficient. A rug would also work. Animal prints can enhance a plain room set beautifully. It is imperative to use animal prints in a tasteful, subtle way as sometimes the prints if used too liberally can look tacky and completely alter the look of a room.

What accessories to use with animal prints? It is recommended to keep accessories plain, either black and white using a variety of plain finishes (such as a gloss wood, plain marble or even plain leather items). It is advisable not to use mock croc as the different patterns will contrast to create a less than desirable effect. Alternatively you could use more African style accessories such as wooden sculptures or clay pots but the surrounding needs to be suitable in this instance.

Within the bathroom, use of 'raw look' tiles, think burnt terracotta or clay tiles with a rustic finish, combined with wrought iron accessories such as a statement mirror would create a striking look in the bathroom.

Within the bedroom, using a mahogany or leather bed frame will set the tribal look off brilliantly - here animal prints can be blended with gold and brown tones on the bed: cushions, wool throws and a variation of cushions. The addition of a few 'palm tree' style plants would also look wonderful: a true celebration of bringing the outdoors within. When considering accessories, hand authentic tribal masks mixed with rustic wooden carvings and woven tribal tapestries.

This interior design trend also benefits from use of wooden flooring, accentuated with wool rugs with an African style print. Animal print rugs can be used but be careful as you want to maintain the elegant element of this style.