Decor on the Wild Side: Animal Print in Interior Design

Say what you will about animal print in interior design, but these funky patterns show no sign of disappearing into the annals of history. In fact, animal prints have served as a status symbol since long before modern times. 

The beauty of animal prints is that their exuberance lends them to blend in seamlessly with countless design trends. Whether your space is maximalist, mid-century modern, contemporary, eclectic, or somewhere in between, animal prints can be welcomed with open arms. 

If you’re in need of inspiration, look no further. There are so many sophisticated ways to incorporate animal print in interior design. You just have to find the style that fits your space best.

How to Incorporate Animal Print in Interior Design

Animal Print as a Minimalism Accent Piece

You may not associate minimalism with bold, eye-catching designs, but there’s no reason animal print can’t serve as an elegant accent piece in an otherwise austere space. Minimalism does not–and should not–equate to boring, making the inclusion of animal print an ideal design choice.

The accent piece could be as simple as a lampshade or as grand as an area rug. As long as it serves a function aside from aesthetics, you can’t go wrong.

Animal Print as a Contrast to Bold Color

The pop of animal print against a bright color is a striking combination that isn’t for the faint of heart, but well worth the reward. Oddly enough, a monochromatic animal print can create a visual balance and movement throughout the space.

Maximalist, mid-century modern, and bohemian styles are best suited for this fearless use of animal print. If your space can’t be defined or falls somewhere in between, go with your instinct. If the union of bold color and animal print is calling your name, be sure not to ignore it.

Furnish with Animal Print

Furniture adorned with animal print can be a pleasantly surprising way to add an eccentric pattern into your design scheme. If you can’t quite commit to an entire piece of animal print furniture, consider opting for a cozy blanket or throw pillows in your favorite print as a test run. 

If the animal print doesn’t bring you joy, those items are easily removable. Should you find yourself in favor of an off-the-wall print, you can feel confident in incorporating more pieces into your space.  

Beyond Animal Print in Interior Design

If animal print truly isn’t your thing, you can still invoke the animalistic nature of animal print in interior design without using it at all. With the right piece, animal compositions and decor can liven up a space in a more understated way. 

Wall Art

Animals offer some of the best inspiration for any kind of artwork. This is especially true for wall art. 

The biggest advantage to going beyond animal print is that you can choose wall art that incorporates animals but is also meaningful to you. Whether it’s your favorite animal or a touching scene between a mother and her baby, the options are virtually limitless.

You can even play around with colors and shapes. Choose pieces that don’t use traditional colors or artwork that falls outside of a square or rectangular composition.

Wallpaper

Speaking of walls, thanks to improved quality and application methods, wallpaper has made a major comeback in recent years. Using a bold print to highlight a single accent wall is especially popular. 

It may come as a surprise, but wallpaper remains a favorite in small spaces as well, including bathrooms. It’s a great way to add a lot of personality to an otherwise blah space. 

If you’re ready to take the leap into wallpaper, animal-related designs can add a funky, yet modern flair to your room. You can also opt for a more muted design that remains neutral while still displaying an amusing animal pattern. 

Area Rugs

This last design idea could admittedly fall under either category and still make for a show-stopping addition. For a non-animal print look, soft, faux fur rugs can transform your room into a cozy space to relax and unwind. 

Alternatively, an animal print area rug is the perfect accent for an eclectic or bohemian style. These trends are all about layering a variety of patterns and textures to push the boundaries of decor and achieve a look unique to your personal taste and style.

Elevate Your Space with Animal-Inspired Looks and Animal Print in Interior Design

If you’ve been tempted to incorporate animal print or animal decor into your interior design, now is the time to take the plunge. Not only is it a popular trend, but with a renewed focus on creating spaces that bring us joy, animal print definitely fits the bill. 

Whether you choose a subtle nod to a beautiful animal with a wall print or opt for a bold statement piece that immediately draws attention, there’s an option out there for every space. Get in touch with your wild side and explore this design trend in a way that makes sense to you.