How to Create a Tarzan Inspired Interior

They say that opposites attract and in the 1999 Disney film Tarzan that was certainly the case. The fabulous tale of the romance between a wild man and a professor’s daughter and the wonderful exotic backdrop of the lush jungle make this film a true classic and provides plenty of inspiration for creating a unique and stylish home interior. From rich natural materials to animal inspired accessories, this interior look will create a varied array of colours and patterns that will provide the perfect getaway from the cold autumn/winter weather.

The obvious choice when selecting decor for a Tarzan inspired interior is leafy jungle prints and natural plants that will add a textural and colourful focal point to your interior space. Select tropical style patterns that feature ferns, banana leaf and palm fronds and use these as a statement wallpaper, a bedding set or a selection of cushions to create a striking focal point that can be complimented by natural beige and wooden colour tones.

To complete this ‘living jungle’ style add a selection of house plants such as umbrella and spider plants and place in large tribal style pots in the corner of the room or in the centre of a table or sideboard. Don’t forget if you’re not very green fingered (like me) then there are a fabulous array of artificial plants that will give the same dense, botanical feel without the upkeep.

Animal print is a fabulous way of representing the friends and foes that Tarzan lives alongside in the jungle. From monochrome zebra to the earthen tones of leopard and giraffe patterns these animal inspired designs can be used across numerous items and accessories in the home.

A striking animal print rug will look fabulous upon a neutral wooden floor and can be co-ordinated with some curtains or a throw for a complimentary finish. Accessories such as candle holders, lamp shades and photo frames will also look great in an animal print design and can be mixed and matched for a variety of colour tones and textures.

If, like Jane you love the excitement of exploration and discovery then why not create a British colonial style interior with fun and interesting design features. I absolutely love this small console desk (left) that has been crafted from a vintage suitcase and features a foldable, camping style stool with a soft leather covering.

For a unique feature wall, use old or antique style maps instead of wallpaper or use as decoupage on a coffee or dining table. Place travel inspired objects around the room such as exotic or tribal artefacts, binoculars or even a vintage safari style hat that will create an artistic and historic ambiance within your chosen room.

Complete your room using a selection of natural wood furniture items or where possible feature exposed ceiling beams or wood cladding and panelling that will create a rich jungle inspired look. Opt for untreated or reclaimed wood furniture items that are rugged and natural in appearance and partner with wooden accessories and natural leather or linen upholstery.

Select items such as camping style chairs, low level day beds and chunky log effect tables that look like they may have been carved from a fallen tree. Add canopies to your bed to reflect Jane’s tent and don’t forget to include a few gorilla ornaments or accessories to represent Tarzan’s best friend Terk.

For more ideas on creating a Tarzan inspired home interior, take a look at this week’s latest Pinterest board - Pinterest - Tarzan