Photo source: Chicville USA (view full post here)

I know I’ve been posting a ton about the holidays (of course!) but I’m feeling a departure as I’m sort of on holiday overload (ya ‘ll I feel for the retail workers who have to listen to endless loops of Frosty the Snowman and Winter Wonderland, I mean, the Hippopotamus for Christmas commercial is pretty much on repeat on MSNBC and that’s bad enough!).  So I’ve recently been feeling inspired by African crafting and patterns (because we serve clients from all over the world I’ve been fortunate enough to work with some African clients, and I’d really like to go someday).  There are a lot of gorgeous colors in African patterns and art, but I tend to prefer the neutrals, like Juju hats (you might like my post on juju hats here) and Kuba cloth.  Throw in some gorgeous Pampa rugs from Argentina (different continent, same look!) to round out your look.

Kuba textiles are made primarily in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (formerly Zaire), and they’re made with raffia palm in a piled texture to look like velvet (and who doesn’t like velvet?!).  I love them because they’re a great neutral base but with loads of visual interest.  So if you’re struggling with a neutral interior, try some of these natural patterns to incorporate a pop of global chic into your decor, and please feel free to enjoy (and share!) my graphic inspiration below!

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