WORDS Amelia Brown
Life is a Garden decodes the growing jungalow style that embraces a riot of colour and pattern.
Compared to last year’s overriding theme of industrial chic, jungalow calls to a bright future of glamorous escapism – vivid colours, bold patterns, worldly thrifted finds and plants, plants, plants, says the team at Life is a Garden. The play on words – the combination of jungle and bungalow – is all about comfort, cosiness and vivaciousness.
The queen of this rustic theme is designer, artist and author Justina Blakeney, who has called her home, design studio and blog The Jungalow. She describes four ingredients in creating the perfect jungle-inspired style: colour, pattern, plants and global finds.
The striking blend of patterns, prints and plants is the trademark of jungalow fever. Here are 3 ways to fully and boldly embrace the indoor jungle trend.
Image credit: Warwick Locke
1. Start With White
White is great for contrast and works well when it comes to layering textiles. Because it’s easy to go overboard, white helps the space feel relaxed and serene, while celebrating the tropical accessories that adorn your space. Layer a blank canvas of white walls with a mix of vivacious colours, both muted and vibrant: textures from wood to thick woollen carpets and of course the greenery of plants. Justina points out that mixing patterns and colour in a fearless way relieves the need to add a lot of stuff.
2. Plants as Patterns
Giant green leaves of plants such as the Delicious Monster and Philodendron Xanadu are trending right now. Big statement plants like these will create an airy ambience. Care for your indoor Philodendron by placing it in well-drained soil in a light-filled spot. To keep it looking eye-catching and fresh, feed it monthly and water when the surface of the soil is dry.
For smaller and daintier pops of nature, decorate with succulents and cacti. These petite plants are beyond resilient, making them the perfect companions if you’re forgetful when it comes to regular watering. For striking foliage with a truly tropical feel, include Calathea (also know as the zebra plant) and Maranta in your indoor jungle. Place the Calathea in dappled light to keep its leaves vividly bright. If you have a small space, think about a hanging garden. Rustic and bohemian, macramé is making a comeback. These rope planters are flexible, stylish and are superb to accessorise the jungalow style.
3. Layer Boldly
Wallpapers and cushions with refreshing leafy prints offer a mixture of novelty and nature. Don’t be afraid of bold feature walls with jungle elements. As well as a homage to nature, handcrafted products are key. Justina suggests bringing in items from around the world to mix cultures in unique ways and show off your personal aesthetic with one-of-a-kind thrifty finds and souvenirs.
