Tropical Decorating

A popular contemporary design scheme today is tropical decor. Tropical decorating infuses a modern, contemporary look with elements of nature, particularly the natural elements found in the lush environments of Earth’s tropical regions.

Fortunately, many of the natural materials found in tropical regions are considered sustainable or renewable. These materials include bamboo, rattan, teakwood and abaca. These materials are considered renewable because they are some of the fastest growing woody plants in the world. Harvesting these materials actually promotes rapid regrowth and they also help sustain the economies of the farmers and native people who help work the land.

Tropical decor is all about natural beauty, rest and relaxation. From the plantation look of the British Colonial West Indies to the chic style of Latin America or the exotic tones of South Asia and Indonesia, there are a variety of tropical design schemes.

When thinking about colors for tropical decor, light, pastel colors are commonly used. White, light blue, beige, tan and coral pink bring to mind the sky, ocean and beach. Earthy greens and browns represent the lush tropical forests. Bright, vivid colors such as red, orange, yellow and fuchsia are found in tropical birds, fish and flowers. Color schemes for tropical decorating are as diverse as the different tropical regions.

Accessories that help complete the look of a tropical design scheme include items found on the beach and in the ocean. Pieces of coral, starfish and the thousands of different seashells you can buy or find yourself look great displayed on shelves, in shadowbox display cases or made into items like candle holders, picture frames and mirror frames. Baskets, mats and screens made out of sea grass, rattan and banana leaf add texture and a natural element. Palm leaf and palm tree designs as well as exotic animal prints such as leopard, tiger, giraffe and zebra are commonly found in tropical decor. Other accessories that help set the mood and feel of ultimate relaxation include indoor water fountains, tropical plants such as palms and bamboo and plenty of natural light from skylights to large bay windows.

When choosing furniture for a tropical theme, it’s a good idea to find manufacturers and retailers that sell eco-friendly tropical furniture. These are companies that make and sell furniture made from renewable resources such as bamboo, rattan, teakwood and abaca, while working closely with their overseas sources to make sure these materials are grown and harvested with the least negative impact on the environment. When shipping these products from their exotic locations, its also important that companies package these items in a way that maximizes the space used in containers to help reduce the amount of transportation needed.

The Sustainable Furniture Council is an organization that helps bring consumers and corporate industry together in an effort to educate and inform both sides on the practices and ideas of sustainability. It’s a good place to start when looking for companies that design eco-friendly tropical furniture.

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