Designer shares how to incorporate travel souvenirs in your home

By Naomi Findlay

Welcome to the world of interior design where borders are blurred and your home becomes a canvas for global expression. It’s a trend that’s capturing hearts and homes, bringing the richness of world cultures right to our doorsteps. But let’s not forget while we’re spicing up our spaces with these exotic touches, the real art is in creating a look that feels cohesive and put together. So, let’s dive in and explore how to travel the world with our décor, without ever leaving the comfort of our living rooms.

Interior designer Naomi Findlay loves decorating with treasures from her travels

Global design in interior decorating refers to an amalgamation of diverse cultural elements that reflect the world’s rich tapestry of heritage and artistry. Influences from across the globe can drastically vary, offering a myriad of styles to draw from. The key benefit of incorporating global elements is the unparalleled character and narrative they contribute to a home.

Practical tips:

Drawing inspiration:

Keep a travel journal or Pinterest board to gather inspiration from your trips, capturing elements such as colours, textures, and architectural details.
Explore local markets and art galleries during your travels to discover unique cultural artefacts and design ideas.
Research online resources, such as blogs, design magazines, and social media accounts, for inspiration from around the world.

Selecting artefacts and pieces:

Before purchasing, research the cultural significance and history behind each piece to ensure authenticity.
Consider the scale and proportion of artefacts to avoid overwhelming your space; larger pieces can serve as focal points, while smaller ones add depth and interest.
Mix and match pieces from different cultures strategically, considering elements such as colour, texture, and symbolism to create a cohesive look.

Choosing fabrics and textiles:

Look for textiles with rich cultural heritage, such as handwoven rugs, embroidered fabrics, or batik prints, to add visual interest and warmth to your space.
Experiment with layering different textures and patterns to create depth and dimension in your décor.
Don’t be afraid to incorporate textiles in unexpected ways, such as using a vibrant scarf as a table runner or framing a piece of fabric as artwork.

Working with colour schemes:

Use colour psychology to evoke specific moods and emotions in each room; for example, warm tones like red and orange can create a cosy, inviting atmosphere, while cool blues and greens promote relaxation.
Consider the existing colour palette of your home and choose global elements that complement rather than clash with it; for instance, if your walls are painted in neutral tones, opt for colourful accents to add pops of interest.

Naomi sourcing decor items for her clients on her travels

Achieving a cohesive look:

Start by decluttering your space and editing down your collection of global elements to focus on the most meaningful and impactful pieces.
Experiment with different furniture arrangements and vignettes to find the right balance between statement pieces and more subtle accents.
Use transitional pieces, such as a neutral rug or a timeless piece of furniture, to bridge the gap between different styles and create a cohesive overall aesthetic.

Take note, design adventurers: navigating the world of global décor is about finesse, not just flair. It’s crucial to dodge the mishmash trap where too many styles collide without a clear direction. To pull off that jetsetter vibe in your space, a dash of strategy is as important as a splash of inspiration.

Think of your space as a curated gallery of your travels, with each piece carefully selected to tell a story and reflect a culture’s essence. This approach not only adds depth to your décor but also respects the rich tapestry of traditions from which you draw.