African decor goes green

As Africa becomes the centre of world focus this year, the continent's traditional geometric patterns and colours are emerging as design trends.

From the pulsating energy of a stadium of colour-coded soccer fans to the glory of a sky ablaze with an African sunset, from the myriad tones in a hand-woven tapestry to the richly dyed prints of bold head wraps, this is a spectrum of colour that will bring the diversity and splendour of Africa and her people into your home.

These factors have combined with a strong move towards "green living" to create 2010's colour and design trends.

Explore and preserve: There is a huge interest in preserving and exploring the past, emphasising once again that eclectic design reigns supreme. This filters through to colour, furniture and finishes, and plays on our greening psyche.

Recycle, repurpose and reuse beautiful accent pieces from the past by repainting and refinishing them in earthy hues such as browns, greens and smoky blues. Or find an antique-inspired item with a modern twist to give you a more contemporary styling effect.

Sexy and sustainable: Earth-centric decor can easily be incorporated into living spaces. Introduce sustainability into your home - use cork, bamboo, organic fabrics, peace silks and reclaimed items.

Local really is lekker: Become eco-savvy and purchase durable and low-toxicity furnishings. One of the easiest ways is to buy local or vintage furniture, as they require no additional resources to manufacture, and by buying local you reduce transportation and related emissions.

Eco-efficiency: When building or remodelling a home, look out for sustainable and environmentally friendly materials to create an eco-efficient abode full of fresh style.

Wood can add warmth and quality to any living space. It plays a major role in combating climate change, so if we build and use sustainable wooden products we will end up saving trees.

Other pearls of wisdom from decorators

Jennifer Jones of Jennifer Jones Interiors: 2010 sees more acknowledgement of personal taste and classic styling - design that will last rather than being transient and fashionable.

Ilsa van Niekerk of o la la! Interiors: More sensitivity, a return to the family, and appreciation of the environment. In the home this includes the use of distressed finishes and repurposed and recycled items. A continued strong interest in energy saving and green living will not only attempt to protect our environment, but will also celebrate the environment in our designs.

Peter Weedon and Stephanie Woodhouse of Woodhouse and Weedon Design: Anything goes - we no longer follow the herd and we are in control of our choices. We have the ability to prove our uniqueness. We are moving through an extremely exciting design period, as we are bombarded with the most extraordinary creative products. We decide on restraint or opulence and we are no longer slaves to fashion - we dictate it.

Tinks Robinson of Peppergreen Interiors: Recycle, reincarnate, rediscover, revamp. Remove interior walls to make open, lofty spaces. Earthbound and organic, natural history finds are becoming sought after, creating an ambience of age from bygone years whether classic or contemporary.

• This article was originally published on page 37 of The Mercury on March 31, 2010

Source : Babynet