Animal Designs in Luxury Interiors: An Amble Through History
London House Rugs - August 05 2024
In the realm of luxury interior design, animal print and animal motifs have emerged as timeless and versatile trends. These elements, inspired by the untamed beauty of nature, bring a unique blend of boldness and elegance to high-end spaces. From the grandeur of leopard spots to the subtle charm of bird motifs, animal prints and motifs add character, texture, and a touch of the exotic to interiors.
The allure of animal prints can be traced back to ancient civilisations, where animal skins and furs were prized for their beauty. Egyptians, Romans, and other ancient cultures used animal skins as rugs, wall coverings and clothing, symbolising power and wealth while keeping the nippy living conditions a little toastier.
Natural fibres such as sheep skins are excellent ways of adding layers of texture to a space, but this primitive style can also be introduced in a more relaxed way using Berber Style rugs or even shag pile rugs. These rug styles offer that long-flowing pile with the comfort you get from natural hand-spun fibres such as wool or bamboo silk. Both Berber-style rugs and Shagpile rugs have an association with more modern designs. However, If you’re looking for something less contemporary but still long for that fluffy pile, London House Rugs has an exclusive selection of Vintage Berber rugs to tantalise the toes.
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In more recent history, animalistic elements were displayed more literally, with decorative antique rugs referencing mythological stories, some depicting hunting scenes, and, more commonly, larger rugs featuring interesting animal-like shapes created by tribesmen. Hundreds of years ago, many weavers would take influence from their surroundings and weave the local wildlife into their rug designs, which we can see in many antique tribal rugs today. These tribal rugs, with their muted colours and geometric patterns, are well-suited for mid-century interiors.
A more modern use of animal print in interior design can be pinpointed to the early 20th century. This era saw a dramatic shift in design principles, with movements such as Art Deco and Modernism embracing new materials, bold patterns, and a sense of glamour.
This period saw an increased interest in cultures and aesthetics worldwide, including African, Asian, and Egyptian influences. Animal prints and motifs, often associated with far-off, exotic locales, brought a sense of adventure and luxury into the home. They reflected the era's interest in global exploration and the integration of diverse cultural elements into design.
Bespoke Animal Designs on Rugs
For a more adventurous design concept, go wild with a big, bolshy bespoke rug showcasing a bold animal motif. Even in the most colourful designs, this provides a captivating focal point, and using specific techniques during the weaving process can take this a step further. We highly recommend using natural silks within the animal motif itself and placing this on a dark wool background. This not only makes the rug feel plusher but really emphasises that distinctive centrepiece.
A Walk on the Wild Side: The Allure of Animal Prints
Leopard and cheetah prints, are synonymous with luxury and have been a staple in high-end fashion for decades. When incorporated into interiors, they bring a sense of richness and sophistication. A leopard print rug in a living room or cheetah print cushions on a plush sofa can instantly elevate the space, adding a chic and modern edge.
Zebra stripes, known for their striking contrast, can be both dramatic and elegant. The black-and-white palette of zebra print effortlessly complements contemporary and minimalist designs while adding dynamic visual interest. Similarly, snakeskin prints, often used in accessories like pillows, throws, and even lampshades, exude luxury and mystique. Their intricate pattern and subtle sheen make them perfect for adding a touch of the exotic without overwhelming the space.
The Subtle Charm of Small Animal Motifs
While animal prints are bold and attention-grabbing, more delicate animal motif can offer a subtle way to infuse nature-inspired elements into luxury interiors. These motifs can range from literal depictions of animals to abstract representations that suggest their presence. Bird motifs, for example, bring a sense of freedom and grace to a space. Whether woven into a bespoke rug or painted on walls, birds can be used in wallpapers, upholstery, or even as part of an art piece. Birds in flight or perched on branches add a whimsical yet sophisticated touch to any room.
Butterfly motifs, symbolising transformation and beauty, are often used in luxury interiors to create a serene and enchanting atmosphere. They can be found in everything from intricate wall decals to delicate sculptures and decorative accessories. High-end interiors also often feature wildlife sculptures of animals like lions, elephants, and horses.
Crafted from bronze, crystal, or marble materials, these pieces serve as striking focal points that embody power and elegance. Placed strategically, they can elevate the overall aesthetic of a room, making it feel curated and refined.
A fun way to incorporate these smaller creatures into a space is by introducing an Afghan Suzani rug. These colourful rugs feature everything from squirrels to flamingos, and their composition makes them stand out from other carpets. They have a flat weave backing with the pictorial elements embroidered on afterwards, slightly raising them from the background. As these rugs are part of the kilim family, these Suzani rugs tend to be a little more cost-effective, too.
Animal prints have long been associated with glamour and daring style. In luxury interior design, they are used to create focal points, add depth, and introduce a sense of adventure. If you’re looking to take that daring leap and introduce some furry friend-inspired elements into your design, feel free to contact one of the team members at London House Rugs, and they can help with any ideas you have.