Hello Africa: celebrating and defining our unique design style
Explore some of the hallmarks of contemporary African interior design
Image of Mingle Mangle by FibreGuard
The African continent continues to show the world how our rich heritage and innovative thinking can lead to incredible achievements. This is clearly seen in the rapid rise in popularity of African artists and creatives, now highly sought after around the world. African design is unapologetically bold and people across the continent are embracing and celebrating the diverse representations of their cultures in fashion, art and, of course, home decor.
We are so used to seeing design trends influenced by other countries around the world. Scandi or Japanese styles are considered sophisticated choices while influences of African design are still sometimes labeled as exotic. But, it’s not exotic for those of us who live on this exciting continent full of possibilities and creativity. It is therefore wonderful to see a more clearly defined African design style and aesthetic emerging, being supported at home and abroad, and seeing the African diaspora showcasing their diversity through various traditional elements incorporated in contemporary looks.
Let’s explore what we think are some of the hallmarks of African interior design.
Layers and texture
If you look at the landscape of the continent, it can change from desert to savanna to deep green fields and forest, and then beaches and oceans within a few hundred kilometres. Traditional fabrics and building materials all have inviting tactile qualities. This is why texture plays such a vital role in contemporary African design. We love to see different layers working together and we also love the feel of natural wood, concrete, grass and woven fabrics.
Our surroundings and our culture inspire layered and textured looks. Minimalism with bold statement pieces are becoming a key feature of Afrocentric decor and it will certainly have texture, be it visual or physical. We want our senses enticed and engaged. Texture is also often used as a way to celebrate elements of the natural beauty of the continent, whether it’s the feel of fabric, grass or wood.
Pattern
Every single African cultural group has some type of visual representation. From Ghana to Kenya to South Africa, there are distinct patterns making use of a select palette of colours to identify heritage or a specific cultural role or rite.
These patterns are a form of visual language and they are in hot demand in fashion, interior design and graphic design. There are many patterns available to use, even our animal hides are patterns we incorporate into our aesthetic. So, it is a natural part of interiors and can be a wonderful way to add character and fun to the overall look while honouring cultural heritage.
Colour
African inspired style can be bare or it can be bold but we are never short on colour choices. From the dusty oranges and pinks of the savanna to the lush greens and sky blues of the mountains, Afrocentric decor is rich in colour inspiration.
For hotels and other commercial spaces, the colour palette may be dictated by the natural environment. In urban settings, bright bold colours offer an energy boost to match the pace of living and working. As for homes, anything goes and can be as crisp as a simple white and black palette or as invigorating as greys and navy blues contrasted with bright yellow and pink. Metal colours are also important as accents of gold, silver, copper and brass often round off the colour scheme.
Local love
No African interior decor is complete without a significant local piece. It could be a traditional basket, wood carving, a beaded element, hand-woven or hand-painted fabric…the list goes on. All that is important is that it was made in the hands of a local artisan and holds significance. For some, it’s a work of art by a renowned local artist, while for others it may be a piece found while travelling the continent that holds a certain nostalgia.
“No matter how it makes its way into the space, it’s part of those details that help craft a story within the decor. Ultimately, that is what our African style is about - telling a story. A story of fabrics, colours, certain places or family history.”
Home Fabrics is proud to have a footprint that extends across Southern Africa as well as Mauritius. We work with some of the leading interior design firms and hospitality groups on the continent to provide top-quality fabrics and wallcoverings. Take a look at some local projects like The Leonardo in Sandton and Ethos restaurant.
