If you’re looking for a fresh and inspiring way to update your home, African interior design styles offer a rich blend of cultural heritage, vibrant colors, and unique craftsmanship. These designs are more than just decor; they are a celebration of traditions, artistry, and the beautiful landscapes of the African continent. From the earthy tones of Moroccan design to the intricate patterns of South Africa's Ndebele art, there's an African interior design style to suit every taste.
In this blog post, we’ll explore 7 exciting African interior design styles that can elevate your next home makeover. Whether you’re looking to create a cozy, earthy living room or an eclectic, vibrant space, these styles will give you plenty of inspiration.
1. Moroccan Style: Earthy Tones and Geometric Patterns
One of the most recognized African design styles, Moroccan interiors are known for their intricate geometric patterns, earthy color palettes, and exquisite tile work. This style combines the elegance of North African tradition with elements of Mediterranean and Arab influences, resulting in a timeless and luxurious feel.
How to implement Moroccan style:
Opt for terracotta, ochre, and deep blues for your color palette, reflecting the vibrant markets and desert landscapes of Morocco.
Introduce patterned tiles, whether on floors, walls, or even tables, to create that unmistakable Moroccan vibe.
Incorporate ornate lanterns, low-sitting couches with rich textiles, and intricately carved wooden furniture to complete the look.
Perfect for: Cozy and inviting living rooms, exotic bathrooms, and serene outdoor spaces.
2. Afro-Boho Style: Eclectic, Free-Spirited Charm
For those who love an eclectic, laid-back vibe, Afro-Boho is the perfect style to embrace. This design trend blends Bohemian free-spiritedness with traditional African elements, such as vibrant colors, handcrafted accessories, and natural materials.
How to implement Afro-Boho style:
Combine patterned textiles with rattan furniture, and layer throw pillows in bold tribal prints and soft neutral tones.
Use hanging plants, macramé, and wicker baskets to create a natural, relaxed feel.
Incorporate statement pieces like African masks, handwoven rugs, and artisanal pottery to add depth and authenticity.
Perfect for: Bedrooms, sunrooms, or any space where you want to relax and unwind.
3. Afro Minimalism: Simplicity with Tradition
The Afro-minimalist approach brings the philosophy of “less is more” to African interior design. African culture emphasizes natural materials like wood, clay, and grasses, often arranged in simple yet impactful ways. This design style is ideal if you prefer clean lines and uncluttered spaces, but still want to incorporate African heritage.
How to implement Afro- minimalism:
Opt for simple, handcrafted wooden furniture, such as stools or benches made from sustainable materials.
Keep the color palette neutral with soft earth tones, while adding pops of color through beadwork or woven baskets.
Decorate walls with traditional shields, clay pots, or simple woven mats for an authentic touch.
Perfect for: Living rooms and dining rooms where simplicity meets elegance.
4. Kente-Inspired Color: Bright and Bold Expression
If you're someone who loves color, the Kente style from West Africa is perfect for making a bold statement. Kente cloth is known for its vibrant colors and geometric patterns, traditionally used in Ghanaian royalty attire. This design style reflects a bold, proud heritage and can instantly liven up any space.
How to implement Kente-inspired style:
Use Kente patterns in your textiles, such as on curtains, throw pillows, or even framed fabric as wall art.
Mix bold colors like reds, greens, yellows, and blues to create an energetic and uplifting atmosphere.
Balance the bold textiles with neutral-toned furniture so that the vibrant patterns remain the focal point of the room.
Perfect for: Dining rooms, entryways, or spaces where you want to create a lively atmosphere.
5. Afro-Scandi Fusion: Minimalist Yet Warm
Afro-Scandi is the perfect fusion of Scandinavian minimalism and African warmth. This trend blends clean, functional design with cozy, natural textures and vibrant African prints. The result is a space that feels both sophisticated and inviting, a perfect blend of two contrasting yet harmonious aesthetics.
How to implement Afro-Scandi fusion:
Opt for neutral tones like whites, beiges, and greys in your base palette, while adding touches of African prints or bold geometric patterns in your decor.
Use natural materials like wooden furniture, jute rugs, and cotton fabrics to keep the space warm and cozy.
Incorporate African art pieces, such as sculptures or wall hangings, for that unique blend of cultures.
Perfect for: Modern homes, open-concept spaces, or any area where you want to balance simplicity with cultural richness.
6. Ndebele Art: Vibrant Patterns and Bold Geometrics
The Ndebele people of South Africa are famous for their vividly painted homes and geometric patterns. These designs are full of bold colors, striking symmetry, and intricate details. Incorporating Ndebele art into your interiors can make any space feel vibrant, eclectic, and truly unique.
How to implement Ndebele-inspired decor:
Paint an accent wall with geometric patterns or hire a mural artist to recreate a Ndebele-inspired design.
Use Ndebele-patterned cushions, rugs, or framed artworks to introduce the style into your living or dining areas.
Add simple, handcrafted pottery or vases in bold colors to complement the overall design.
Perfect for: Statement walls, modern living rooms, or as a feature in home offices or creative spaces.
7. Afro-Deco: A Glamorous Fusion of African and Art Deco Styles
Afro-Deco combines the glitz and glamour of Art Deco with African-inspired motifs, creating a style that is both luxurious and culturally rich. This design style emphasizes symmetry, geometric shapes, and the use of metallics, while also incorporating African art, fabrics, and textures.
How to implement Afro-Deco style:
Choose elegant furniture with clean lines, adding accents of gold, silver, or brass for a glamorous touch.
Incorporate bold African prints, such as tribal patterns, in your throw pillows or wall art to give the space personality.
Decorate with large mirrors, statement light fixtures, and African sculptures to complete the luxurious look.
Perfect for: Upscale living rooms, dining areas, and even boutique hotels or luxury vacation rentals.
African interior design styles offer an exciting range of options for anyone looking to refresh their home or vacation rental. From the warmth and earthy tones of Moroccan interiors to the bold patterns of Kente and Ndebele, there’s a style for everyone. These African-inspired elements not only beautify your space but also tell a story of tradition and artistry.
Whether you're designing a cozy retreat, an eclectic living room, or a modern dining area, embracing these 7 African interior design styles can transform your space into a vibrant, meaningful haven. Choose the style that speaks to you and start your next home makeover with inspiration straight from the rich and diverse cultures of Africa!
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FAQs about " 7 Exciting African Interior Design Styles"
1. How can I incorporate African interior design without overdoing it?
Start small by introducing key elements like textiles, artwork, or accent furniture pieces that reflect your favorite African design style. Balance these with neutral tones and modern furnishings to avoid overwhelming the space.
2. What African interior design style works best for small spaces?
3. Can I mix different African design styles in one room?
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About DIONE Interiors
DIONE Interiors is an online interior design firm specialising in creating Afrofusion interiors that incorporate unique African aesthetics and modern design. We focus on designing interiors for both residential (private rental properties) and hospitality (vacation rentals, bars, and restaurants) spaces.
Visit our website for more about how we can help your space strive!
At DIONE Interiors, we thoughtfully curate materials and home décor items to perfectly complement each blog post and design theme. As a design firm inspired by the rich traditions and culture of Africa, we prioritize promoting and selecting furniture and décor created by African artists and designers. However, we understand that for our global clientele, sourcing certain items directly from Africa can sometimes present logistical challenges and higher costs. That’s why we also offer carefully chosen alternatives from across the world to meet your design needs. If you have any specific requests, feel free to reach out—we're here to help.
Credits Images: Pinterest unless otherwise stated
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