Where did tropical interior design originate?

Tropical interior design has become increasingly popular in recent years. The style is vibrant, bold, and exotic; but, where did this style originate from? The tropical interior design style may seem like a modern trend, but it actually dates back to the 1800s. The style originated as a British Colonial style and was heavily influenced by the travel of people from around the world. Let’s take a closer look at the roots of tropical interior design.

Exotic Décor: British Colonizers brought back exotic décor pieces from their travels abroad. These items included hand-carved furniture, intricate wooden carvings, and hand-woven textiles.

Tropical Plants: The British Colonizers were fascinated by the lush and vibrant colors of the tropical plants they encountered during their travels. They brought these plants back with them and adorned their homes with them.

Tropical Flowers: Along with tropical plants, the British Colonizers also collected rare tropical flowers. These flowers were used to add pops of color and life to their homes.

Large Design Patterns: The British Colonizers decorated their homes with large design patterns. These patterns were seen in everything from wallpaper to upholstery.

In conclusion, tropical interior design has a rich history that dates back to the 1800s. It was originally influenced by the British Colonizers who brought back treasures from their travels abroad. The style continues to evolve and remains a popular choice for those seeking to infuse their home with vibrancy and exotic beauty.

The Roots of Tropical Interior Design

Tropical interior design has become one of the most sought-after home decor styles. Its use of lush greenery, bold patterns, and exotic decor has made it a favorite among homeowners and interior designers alike. However, not many know that the tropical style has been around for centuries. The tropical interior design style originated in the 1800s during the British Colonial era when travelers brought back exotic decor and designs from their journeys to the exotic parts of the world.

British Colonial Influence on Tropical Design

The British Colonial era was a period when Great Britain had control over various parts of the world, including India, Africa, and the Caribbean. During this time, British travelers would bring back exotic decor and designs from their travels and incorporate them into their homes. With the blending of different cultures, the British colonial style emerged. The tropical interior design style owes its roots to this period, as British colonizers’ design style is characterized by the use of natural materials, such as wood and rattan, to create a warm and welcoming environment.

Eclectic Inspiration from Travelers

During colonial times, British travelers explored the world and brought home artifacts, textiles, and other exotic objects that were unique to the countries they visited. As these items were incorporated into homes, they began to form an eclectic collection of items that were distinctively tropical in nature. In time, this eclectic inspiration from travelers became the foundation of tropical interior design.

Incorporating Exotic Décor in Tropical Design

One of the most defining features of the tropical interior design style is its use of exotic decor. This includes incorporating items such as animal prints, tribal sculptures, and colorful accessories. To incorporate exotic decor into your home, start by mixing different textures and materials. For example, mix textures like raffia, bamboo, and banana leaf to bring out the natural richness that is synonymous with tropical design. Also, consider using bold and colorful decor accents to add a pop of color to neutral color schemes.

Lush Greenery: Tropical Plants and Flowers

Lush greenery is a hallmark of tropical interior design. Tropical style is not just about adding greenery but bringing in a variety of plant species. This is because tropical environments are known for their biodiversity. Plants that work well for this style include ferns, palms, bromeliads, and hibiscus flowers. These plants add some drama to the room and translate to a more relaxing space. Besides being visually appealing, plants also improve indoor air quality, creating a serene environment that enhances your well-being.

Bold Patterns and Colors in Tropical Style

Tropical interior design revels in creating a lively ambiance. The style utilizes bold patterns and colors that exude energy and vibrancy. Animal prints, ikat, bold stripes, and florals are trademark patterns in tropical design. To incorporate the patterns into your decor, consider using large prints on your upholstery, curtains, and cushions. When selecting colors, choose bright and vivid hues like turquoise, pink, and coral. Most importantly, do not shy away from colors as they are the centerpiece of a tropical interior design style. In conclusion, the tropical interior design style has been around for centuries and is influenced by different cultures’ blending. Travelers from around the world brought exotic decor and designs, and together with British colonial style, eclectic inspiration, lush greenery, exotic decor, and bold patterns, a unique style emerged. Tropical interior design is still a style that continues to thrive, and with the above elements, you too can create an exotic ambiance in your home.