Going wild – using animal prints with aplomb

I believe that animal prints are a wonderful addition to an interior.  They can move between traditional and modern spaces with aplomb.   I recall when I first used the Stark signature antelope pattern for a stair runner in my clients’ home.   It was a stunner then and because it is of quality wool, it is as timeless today as when we installed years ago.   

I recently installed this stunning pattern in a clients’ home office in Greenwich.  While she loved the pattern, she was hesitant to have so much of it underfoot.  However, she trusted my instincts and approved the selection.   She absolutely loves the carpet and how chic it makes her feel in her space.   

I love using animal prints for pillows, the leading edge of a drapery panel, an upholstered seat on a bench or on a small occasional chair.   I personally do not care for them on large scale furnishings, but more as accents that create emphasis and focus in a space.   

I do love using hides – natural or faux, both stitched and organic, as area rugs.   We are always drawn to the metallic hides as they bring another dimension of materiality to our spaces.  

In my home office, I had my workroom upholster a great chair cushion for an antique chair I inherited from my grandparents.   With the leftovers, I had a lovely lumbar pillow made for center of the sofa.   

If you are ready for more inspo – click HERE to see some wonderful animal prints.

Phyllis Harbinger