AFRO CHIC

South African photographer David Ross

I have a sneaking suspicion a trend is upon us. This disappoints me a little because I don't like trends and I really quite like this look. It's a subtle tribal/African influence in either a simple neutral setting or boho space. The idea is not to go crazy with too many tribal pieces but just a hint to create some interest. Think about layering mud cloth textiles in tribal patterns, or using a simple hide rug, hang some African photography artwork, or use a Malawi occasional chair or Bamileke drum stool. Other more daring but equally fabulous pieces with African flair would be some buffalo horns, a Cameroon or Ju Ju headdress on the wall, or a mounted skull. Spaces styled properly with this Afro chic look give you the sense that the owner is well travelled and worldly - a little adventurous perhaps. But don't get carried away because too much of a good thing can look tacky. 

Manyara Home, Newport, Sydney manyarahome.com.au

Styled for Couleur Locale Concept Store in Belgium

elramlahamra.nl

Portait of Kate Moss by Wolfgang Tillmans

Gwynn Griffith's home in San Antonio, Texas. elledecor.com

A Dulux paints fashion-inspired room, styled by Dulux stylist Bree Leech

Les Interieurs, Paddington, Sydney. The retail store of interior designer Pamela Makin

Lumu Interiors, Rozelle, Sydney

Les Interieurs, Paddington, Sydney. Photo: Vogue Living magazine

Lumu Interiors, Rozelle, Sydney

homebytribal.com.au

Fenton and Fenton fentonandfenton.com.au

Photo: Travel Plus Style travelplusstyle.com

All images are credited where possible. Please feel free to share information on any where a source could not be located.

Inside Scoop. Interior Design Blog.

WALL OF ART

Gallery wall in bathroom by Christina Anasta Design. 

I spent most of last week either framing artwork or visiting art galleries in Sydney. It got me thinking about how people hang their artwork. I have a wall of art in my bathroom - that's right, in my bathroom (see pic above). But I really don't see that type of placement very often. Most people usually separate their artwork or hang one or two on each wall. But a wall of art, or gallery wall, is a great way to create a bit of drama and it really does create interest on an otherwise boring wall. A collection of different artworks, preferably in different frames and sizes, draws you in, encourages you to have a closer look and is a great talking point. If you don't have artwork, try mirrors or even a cluster of empty frames. There are no set rules - if you group pieces that you love, they should work well together. And here's a handy little tip - trace your frames onto craft paper or cardboard and play with different placement options on the wall to get the layout just right.

All images are credited where possible. Please feel free to share information on any where a source could not be located.

Inside Scoop. Interior Design Blog.

TEAL LOVIN'

Feeling blue? Me too. Teal to be exact. It's that tricky balance of blue with just a hint of green that doesn't quite tip it over into the aqua hemisphere. I love the depth and richness of teal and I especially love it in leather and velvet. Aw Ma Gawwwd! It's a great colour for winter and it pairs really well with timbers and warmer Autumnal colours. It's especially good with copper and bronze. I wouldn't hesitate to paint an entire room in the colour. It's that good!

Elle Decor Italia no.12, Dec 2012

Living room of fashion designer Nanette Lepore's Manhattan home - elledecor.com

apartmenttherapy.com

New Orleans Haunted Blue Door art photograph - etsy.com

interiorator.com

Photography by Mikkel Vang for Vogue

"Lonely Bed" photography art print by David Pinzer - artflakes.com 

Images via Pinterest. All images are credited where possible. Please feel free to share information on any where a source could not be located.

Inside Scoop. Interior Design Blog.