African decor has long reigned as a smart way to spice up any room or space. The elegance of a bold statue, the quaintness of colorful baskets or the majestic presence of an African mask has stood the test of time.

From contemporary interior designer to the traditional,  African decor continues to influence design choices across the globe. But one of the questions many people have when it comes to African interior design is how to choose the best piece, color, or texture for a specific room.

I'll answer that question and a few others for you in this article. Without giving you a long list of do's and don't I'll give you 3 basic rules to remember. If you can follow these rules you'll find yourself on the right track.

1. Know Your Limitations

Don't try to do too much too soon. Many people get carried away when it comes to decorating with an African theme, and when it's their first time many can easily over do it.

Not all African decor pieces have the same use or purpose when it comes to decorating a room or space. So, if you don't have an expert to help you the best advice is to start slow.

Begin by reading the many African decor and design books available at your local library, bookstore and on the internet. Even reading one of the many African American decor books can give you food for thought.

By first educating yourself, you'll quickly develop your personal style, your likes and your dislikes. In addition, you'll begin to zero in on your comfort zone when it comes to choosing the right pieces.

2. Know What Mood You Want To Set

This is another important point when choosing the right African decor for a room or space. There are many moods you can create and there's a piece to accommodate that mood.

Do you prefer an upbeat, energetic, lively room or space? Then find colors such as reds, yellows, oranges and purples to reflect your mood.

Do you long for a quiet tranquil setting, a calm place to come home to after a hectic day? Then make sure you bring in soft earth tone colors and soft, natural fabrics and designs.

3. Take A Few Risks and Don't Be Afraid To Change

African American decor also allows you to make many interior design choices to fit your taste and mood.  With so many African theme choices to make, people often drift to one segment, for example figurines, and ignore other design choices like baskets, picture frames or pottery.

That's why I would like to encourage you to avoid rut thinking and force yourself to take a risk every now and then - when it comes to choosing African decor pieces. You'll often find some great treasures when you keep an open mind.

This brings me to the next point, when you do make a decision on what to choose for a room, don't be afraid to change. Don't be afraid to replace, add or combine certain pieces if it makes you feel adventurous, bold and alive. After all, that's what decorating with African decor is all about.

Hopefully, these suggestions have pointed you in the right direction in showing how to make wise buying decisions. Like anything, the more you educate yourself, the better you'll get and the more fun you'll have with African decor.

African home decor