On the Serengeti

We suffered through sub-zero temperatures in Louisville this week. This is NOT what we’re used to, so needless to say, wanderlust has set in hard. Alas, a getaway isn’t in the cards for a while, so we’re dreaming of ways to bring warm, exotic locales to us. Last year a member of the team visited Tanzania and the Serengeti, and now we’d love to bring some of that safari style into our home. 

Here are a few ideas:

Employ an Earth Palette

Browns, creams, taupes or gold tones on the walls echo the colors of the African savanna and also warm the atmosphere of any room. Accent colors like rusty reds, pumpkin oranges, and olive greens complete the look and keep the space looking natural and inviting.  

Photo credit: st.houzz.com

Nurture the Natural

Wood, clay, leather, rattan and other native materials are the components of traditional African lifestyles and will give your look an added authenticity and rustic appeal. Wood in particular is crucial to the African aesthetic, as woodcarving is an integral part of many tribal cultures and artistic traditions. Try out a variety of materials in different spaces to evoke the vastness and diversity of the African landscape, and be sure to mix natural textures.

Photo credit: graciepi.com

Pattern Practice

Patterns are an important hallmark of traditional African décor, so give them a shot. We’re partial to animal prints, so long as they are used with restraint. Throw pillows in a zebra print or an accent chair in giraffe spots serve as design anchors of the safari chic we’re trying to achieve.

Photo credit: overstock.com

Eye the Art

Wood carvings and tribal art are beautiful when a few pieces are displayed together on an accent wall or table. Visit museums and art galleries to look for unique works of art (if you haven’t had a chance to build a collection via your own travels) that will capture the eye and start conversations.

Photo credit: etsystatic.com

 If you could go anywhere, where would you escape to this winter?