As South Africans, we’re blessed to live in a country filled with lush landscapes and all kinds of creatures and critters. It’s only natural that you’d be drawn to inviting the outdoors inside.
The good news is that with a rise in sustainable living, decor trends are also matching up with green values. Urban jungle interior design is one example that stylists are trumpeting about. Imagine using decor inspired by the untamed beauty of a jungle to create a space that feels vibrant, welcoming, and calming.
What is urban jungle interior design?
While there are plenty of benefits of living in the city, having access to greenery can be a challenge. Urban jungle interiors have become popular as a way to reconnect with nature within the home and enjoy its healing qualities. The trend got its legs during the COVID-19 pandemic when people spent extended periods at home and became more aware of the value of setting up a space defined by their needs and personalities.
Urban jungle interiors are inspired by the idea of bringing the rugged and magical feel of jungles into an urban space. Using plants and greenery is key to creating a calming and organic atmosphere. But to really nail the aesthetic, you should also bring in natural materials, use an earthy colour palette, and throw in botanical and animal prints and patterns across your scheme that evoke jungle vibes.
How to make your house look like a jungle
In a fast-paced life, your home can become a refuge. And the best part is that urban jungle interior design works well in almost any urban home from a compact apartment to a spacious townhouse.
Have fun with foliage: Jungles are characterised by their lushness, so aim to evoke this in your home. There are plenty of low-maintenance leafy options you can include, such as snake plants, spider plants, radiator plants, and monstera. If space is an issue, you can group these plants into a green corner for jungle vibes on a micro level.
Layer your greenery: To get the quintessential jungle feel, having plants of different textures and heights is crucial. For texture, consider mixing up ferns, succulents, climbing plants, and flowering shrubs. For height, position your plants at different levels using tiered shelves, hooks on ceilings, or windowsills.
Embrace faux fabulousness: No green thumb? No problem! There are plenty of artificial plants that can create a similar effect. You can also choose decorating elements that reflect the shapes, textures, and colours of a jungle.
Bring warmth with earth tones: Your scheme should reflect the glorious palette of a jungle. Think deep greens, warm browns, and muted yellows. Use these colours for walls, furniture, or decor to create a cohesive and natural look.
Mix and match textures: Draw on the varied feel of jungles in your scheme and opt for furniture and decor made from natural materials like bamboo, rattan, wicker, clay, terracotta, and hemp. This also brings an appealing earthy, organic feel to your home.
Make it pretty with prints: These can be incorporated into your wallpaper, artwork, furniture, and textiles, adding a dynamic feel to your scheme. Not just florals and trees, these prints can also include animals that you’d typically find on a safari.
Flood your space in light: Not only will this make your home feel spacious and inviting, but it will also fit in with the jungle-themed aesthetic. A lot of houseplants, even those that thrive in low light, will still need sunlight at times to remain healthy. If you prefer your privacy, choose sheer curtains or bamboo blinds that will help you filter the glare.
Create illusions with mirrors: Reflective surfaces work wonders to add an airy, spacious feel to your space. But they also reflect more of your greenery to double up on the lush jungle vibe you’re putting together. Position them behind or opposing your greenery to maximise the effect.
Add urban jungle bling: Use the right accessories to reflect the theme, such as animal prints, nature-inspired patterns, or decorative items like tribal masks. This is an easy trend to shop for locally, but you can even have fun by crafting items yourself.
Make your design journey an adventure
Your home is more than just a place you hang your hat; it's your personal haven, a canvas for creativity, and a retreat from the everyday. So there’s a real thrill in creating a space that not only reflects the beauty of nature but also brings you absolute joy. Just as every adventure needs the perfect starting point, finding the right home is crucial. Seeff’s team of property professionals are ready to assist you in your journey. Whether you’re looking to buy or rent property, get in touch with us today.
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