Ethnic accents have the power to magnify and adapt to every type of interior: modern or classic, minimalist or eclectic. Whether it is a decoration with typical elements for African, Egyptian, Indian, Moroccan, Japanese etc. cultures. or a mix of traditional objects from different corners of the world, the result is always the same: a relaxing atmosphere, full of character and exoticism. Want to give your home a breath of uniqueness? Take advantage of our tips and ideas for decorating an ethnic living room.
Successful combination of traditional and modern in the ethnic living room
In general, it is the small details and objects that create this exceptional atmosphere in the ethnic interior. It is not even necessary to resort to a complete renewal of space. All you have to do is choose the right elements and the most suitable combinations of colors and materials. Zoom in on the details.
Valuables and tribal culture items will add character to every interior
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Vibrant colors and vibrant patternsThe ethnic decor is often distinguished by touches of warm colors such as red, yellow, orange or purple. Bright patterns are also an essential element: animal patterns (for a typically African decor) as well as geometric lines, dashiki or kente patterns. To refresh the decor and bring a natural note, green plants are also an element to consider.
Comfort, relaxation and style with the best of both worlds
Natural textures and materials
To create a welcoming atmosphere, natural textures are preferred. Bamboo, rattan, jute, wood or leather. They appear everywhere in the space in the form of furniture or decorative objects. If you are looking for an original way to refresh the living room, emphasizing the ceiling is also a suitable idea. A fabric covering with ethnic motifs will be the perfect solution.
Natural colors and materials to be in harmony with nature
textiles
In the mission of transforming any room, cushions and rugs are our best allies. Animal or ethnic patterns in vibrant colors (to enhance your sofa or armchair), rugs with traditional patterns and animal skin designs. The choice of curtains is also not to be underestimated. Whether you prefer neutral shades or darker tones such as blue or purple, you'll always be on the right track.
Bold accents and varied patterns to spice up the ordinary ambience
Furniture
The seat. Having a relaxation corner is also part of the ethnic trends. So it is better to choose a comfy piece of furniture to sit on. Rocking chairs, rattan or leather armchairs (African decor), poufs or hanging hammock (bohemian chic decor). It's your turn.
The ethnic decor relies on traditional accessories. This is why the choice of suitable furniture (to have where to arrange its decorative elements) is so important. The coffee table, for example, is a very good idea if you are looking for a piece of furniture to display ethnic figurines, candles or flowers.
Warm and welcoming decoration with a modern bohemian chic spirit
Accessories
Traditional souvenirs and handmade folk items are the basis of the ethnic style. They are therefore an indispensable element in the themed living room. If you have already visited exotic countries and you keep typical objects, make them the centerpiece of your decor. Otherwise, you can get some ethnic accessories from local or online stores. But, how do you decide which style is best for you? Let's see the distinctive traits for some popular cultures.
What accessories to choose to create a thematic decoration?
African decor: earth colors and dark tones – brown, khaki; works of art, masks, wall dyes, batik fabric, exotic kilim, bamboo or rattan furniture, handcrafted wooden totems and sculptures, bamboo musical instruments, statues and animal prints – zebra, tiger, leopard etc. Need a little more info on the subject, see our African decor article.
Invite the warmth of African landscapes into your home
Moroccan decor: rich colors and various shades – purple, blue, turquoise, orange; low furniture, pottery – tajines, ashtrays, vases, spice boxes, piggy bank, beldi glass, oriental glass and mosaic chandelier, leather poufs, Berber rug, woven palm basket, handira fabric, hammered metal mirrors, cushions luxurious materials etc.
A whiff of Moroccan exoticism with a few objects of oriental spirit
Indian decor: warm and vibrant colors – red, orange, pink, yellow and green, purple, blue; cultural objects, Buddha or elephant statues, patchwork, tea or spice boxes, candle holders, leather books, wooden jewelry boxes, ceramic ashtrays, embroidery, porcelain hooks, etc.
For a decoration rich in colors and good mood, opt for the Indian decoration
Japanese decoration: dark and neutral colors, Zen atmosphere, plants – bonsai, bamboo, feng shui tree of life figurines or mini Zen garden, objects with cat or maneki motifs, cushions with Asian design, fabrics with floral motifs or Japanese cherry trees, fabric furoshiki, fountains, noren tapestry, wind bells etc.
Zen and mystical atmosphere in the Japanese style living room
Navajo decoration: natural colors – earth, ocher, orange, brown or contrasting combinations such as the white and black duo, graphic patterns and Navajo prints, Native American-inspired objects – feathers, dream catcher and wall weaving, arrows, horns, carpets geometric design, floor cushions, driftwood branch, armchairs covered in colored plaid, teepee etc.
Natural colors and Native American-inspired object with Navajo patterns
Bohemian chic decor: bright colors, straw baskets, Doum light suspension, macrame, hammock or hanging chair, green plants, woven bench, plaid and rug with fringes, crochet or jute poufs, palm leaf frame mirror, etc. More info and useful tips on the modern boho chic style in the bohemian bedroom decor article.
The top of popular trends: the bohemian chic spirit
Vegetable splendor and exotic rattan furniture
Decor at the end of reality with several natural elements
Wall decoration with traditional objects in this modern living room
Exoticism and luxurious atmosphere in the oriental interior
Here's a good idea how to integrate the African style into a contemporary decor
Fantastic items of tribal value in an unparalleled red room
Bright and ultra cozy living room with plenty of cushions and ethnic plaids
The African spirit in a blue living room with wood and gold finishes
Refresh the monotonous interior with ethnic colorful items
Incredible interior that perfectly mixes the different styles
Perfect resting place in various colors and patterns
Ethnic living room furnished with wooden objects and vibrant accessories
Excellent marriage between bohemian chic style and Aztec patterns
Exotic paradise for nomadic souls
Style and elegance in neutral shades with nice contrast in black tones
Elements of African culture in this ethnic living room in earth colors
Italian design in the white room with some fresh strokes in flamboyant colors
Cocooning corner with several handmade objects of cultural value
Balanced combination of colors and materials used
Wild spirit in this ethnic living room in white and wood
Tropical oasis with a mix of ethnic objects in this green room
Vitamin accents completely change the ordinary mood
Plant fiber wall decoration
Bohemian chic spirit in this ethnic living room in soft colors
Oriental objects to bring a note of exoticism in the banal decor
Super warm living room with vitamin accents and dark wood finishes
