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Animal Print in Home Decor

Embrace animal prints in home decor, a trend that's playful with patterns. Learn how to pull it off, with tips from Adrian Palacios, interior designer.

Mixing and Matching

Don't be afraid to mix and match different animal prints. The key to successfully combining patterns is to stick to a cohesive color scheme. For example, pairing a zebra print rug with leopard print throw pillows can create a layered, sophisticated look as long as the colors complement each other.

Fabric and Texture

The type of fabric and texture you choose for your animal print decor can also make a significant impact. Velvet, silk, and faux fur are popular choices that add a luxurious feel to any room. Consider incorporating different textures to add depth and interest to your space.

Cheetah Area Rugs for Wild Interior Design

Statement Chairs

A leopard print chair can instantly elevate the look of a living room or bedroom. Pair it with neutral colors to allow the pattern to stand out, or mix it with other prints for a more eclectic look. The key is to balance the boldness of the print with more subdued elements.

Throw Pillows

Animal print throw pillows are an easy and affordable way to introduce this trend into your home. They can be easily swapped out to change the look of a room and can be mixed with other patterns for a dynamic and layered effect.

Rugs

An animal print rug can serve as the foundation of a room's decor. Whether you choose a classic zebra print, or a more abstract cheetah pattern, remember Adrian's perspective: that "a rug can anchor the space and provide a visual focal point." The designer recommends "pairing it with neutral furniture to allow the rug to take center stage."

DIY Animal Print Projects

For those who enjoy a hands-on approach, there are plenty of DIY projects that allow you to incorporate animal prints into your home decor. From stenciling furniture to creating custom artwork, the possibilities are endless.

How do you mix animal prints in home decor?

Mixing animal prints can seem daunting, but with the right approach, it can add a touch of elegance and excitement to your home decor. Here’s how you can do it:
  1. Start with a Neutral Base: Begin with a neutral color palette for the larger elements in the room such as walls, sofas, and rugs. This provides a cohesive backdrop that allows the animal prints to stand out without overwhelming the space.
  2. Choose One Dominant Print: Adrian (our interior designer), shares that the best next step is to "select one animal print to be the focal point of your decor. This could be a zebra rug, a leopard print throw, or a cheetah-patterned armchair. Ensure this dominant print is used in the central pieces to anchor the room."
  3. Add Complementary Prints: Incorporate smaller accents of different animal prints through pillows, throws, or art pieces. Keep the scale and color of these prints similar to create harmony. For example, if your dominant print is a bold leopard pattern, opt for smaller-scale zebra or cheetah prints in similar hues.

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Editorial Disclaimer: Articles featuring tips and advice are intended for educational purposes and only as general recommendations. Always practice personal discretion when using and caring for furniture, decor and related items.