4 Quintessential Items of Tropical Decor

There are two types of tropical decor: trendy and timeless. While adding some trendy elements to your home can be fun in the short term, elegant, timeless tropical decor will never be dated or out of style. A few quintessential items of tropical decor can make your home the relaxing retreat you want it to be.

Tropical decor is about ease, practicality, and, above all, comfort. With influences from all over the globe, it is eclectic by its very nature, but also distinct in its execution. With this in mind, here are the basics of tropical decor.

A Warm, Soothing Color Palette Punctuated with Bright Colors

Think of colors found in a tropical landscape and you’ll have your color palette. You’ve got warm, soothing colors inspired by natural elements such as the ocean, sky, and vegetation. The colors may be deep and rich, or light and bright. You get a range of blue tones from the sky and sea, sun-drenched golden sandy tones, and colors inspired by lush tropical foliage and brilliant flowers. There’s a lot to choose from, but don’t go overboard.

Inspired by the crisp whitewashed roofs, pastel homes, and lush landscape of Bermuda, this Ivory Key Bedroom Group by Tommy Bahama exemplifies the casual, colorful side of tropical decor. The look is chic and sophisticated while the vibe is cool and casual.

Natural Materials and Exotic Woods

Tropical furniture features natural materials such as bamboo, rattan, seagrass, and jute as well as exotic wood such as teak. When used in chairs, tables, beds, and ottomans, these materials add a lot of interest and texture. Furniture in tropical design features open wood frames, such as the one in this Bali Hai Bedroom Group from Tommy Bahama. The bed and bedside tables also include details common in tropical decor such as woven raffia panels. The Bali Hai Hibiscus Round Accent Table in the window nook adds a bit of whimsy, a word you’ll often see associated with tropical decor.

Tropical Motifs in Upholstery

Bright tropical flowers or giant palm leaves are often seen in tropical-inspired upholstery. They can be big, bold flowers or smaller, more delicate patterns. Corals, flowers, and sea life are all found in tropical-inspired upholstery patterns. The Island Estate Mangrove Arm Chair above features understated palm leaf-patterned upholstery that works with the intricate pattern of woven abaca on the back and the leather-wrapped bamboo frame. This combination sets a vibe that is not overpowering yet is also unmistakably tropical.

Topical Accessories Add a Bit of Whimsy

There’s that word again: whimsy. Throw pillows, botanical prints on the wall, and coffee table decor all bring in whimsical elements to your tropical theme. This is a great way to bring in pops of tropical colors citrus colors to a more neutral tropical palette. If your palette already has color in its fabrics, use the existing palette as a starting point for adding coordinating accessories. Bright gladioli, orchids, or birds of paradise in glass vases and potted palms are great accessories for a tropical-inspired room. Other items that will cement your tropical style include pieces of coral, shells, and driftwood. If you want something a little bolder, add some tiki statues, pineapple designs, and decorative wood carvings.

A room designed with tropical flair will evoke an island paradise. Inspired by scenic locations such as Bali, Hawaii, Fiji, and the islands of the Caribbean, you are sure to hear the soothing ocean waves off in the distance.