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Are you captivated by tropical décor that is reminiscent of the gorgeous islands in the South Pacific, Hawaii, or the Caribbean? Are you dreaming of turning your own living room into a tropical paradise but are not sure how to accomplish the desired look?
Whether you are thinking of making a few minor changes such as adding simple accessories, or planning to completely renovate the space, you have come to the right place. We will help you infuse your space with the exotic allure and charm of places like the Fiji Islands, the Seychelles, the Maldives, and the Bahamas.
Infuse Your Home With Tropical Charm
In this article, we have compiled useful tips, ideas, and recommendations on how to give your living room a tropical makeover. Our goal is to guide you through the process while exploring patterns, colors, textures, materials, plants, and motifs that bring the outside into your room while capturing the ambiance of lush vegetation and the tranquility of the tropics.
Whether you are on a tight budget or not, and whether you live in an apartment, condo, or a family home, we will show you how to transform your personal space into a stress-free escape all year round.
With the design ideas below, you can make small décor changes that will have a big impact. Get inspired to bring the rainforest and jungle vibes into your home. With a little planning and creativity, you can create a stunning tropical look without breaking the bank.
What Is Tropical Interior Design?
Tropical interior design originated in the 19th century, a period marked by exploring faraway exotic lands. But tropical style is not just a design. It is a philosophy and a reflection of a stress-free way of living that glorifies the charm and diversity of tropical regions worldwide, from Caribbean rainforests to the sandy beaches of Bora Bora.
It mimics the ambiance of a carefree life, calm seas, gentle breezes, the soothing sounds of the ocean, and exotic wildlife. This authentic tropical style is all about connecting and becoming one with nature, and bringing many of the outside elements inside. These elements are inspired by exotic flora and fauna, vibrant colors, natural materials, light textures, tropical fruit, bold patterns, and so on.
While contemporary tropical style is more eclectic, since it mixes modern aesthetics with tropical elements, minimalist tropical style is characterized by clean lines, uncluttered spaces, and muted colors with pops of color. What’s most important is that both styles embrace the tropics in fun, vibrant, and unique ways.
Contemporary tropical style. Photo credit: Cubicoon
7 Main Characteristics of Tropical Design
Tropical interior décor emphasizes a sense of relaxation and calmness specific to the islands such as those found in the South Pacific or in places like Bali or the Caribbean. Let’s explore the main features of tropical décor style:
Natural Materials
If you want to create an authentic tropical look, using natural materials is a must. Materials such as bamboo, rattan, stone, and both weathered and polished woods such as teak and mahogany reflect the earth-friendly authenticity of tropical cultures.
Handmade, ethically sourced décor will provide your space with the traditional craftsmanship that local artisans have used for centuries. Include accents made from fabrics such as linen and natural fibers such as jute and sisal and you've got yourself a true tropical space.
Color Palette
Tropical style is typically inspired by vibrant hues that can be found in nature, such as:
- blues such as turquoise, cerulean and azure (ocean, sky)
- golden, brass & copper tones (sun-drenched sand, sunsets)
- greens such as moss, fern, and forest (dense vegetation)
- bright reds, oranges, yellows, pinks, and purples (tropical flowers and fruit, corals, tropical fish and birds)
When these are combined with neutral colors (browns, beiges, and whites), they achieve a perfect balance and a harmonious look.
If a more visually minimalist result is the goal, incorporate more neutral tones while using specific vibrant colors more sparingly.
Cool aqua blue waters of Blue Lagoon, Vanuatu island. Photo credit: Escape
Hibiscus flowers. Photo credit: Rotorua Pacific Island Trust
Bold Patterns
Typical tropical patterns include various types and sizes of leaves, palm trees and fronds, florals, exotic fruits, and shapes and patterns found in nature. There are many ways to add tropical motifs to your living room, family room, or any room in your home. These are a few examples:
- Accent wall (leaf patterns, florals, pineapples, exotic animals)
- Fabric wall hangings (throws, tapestries, scarves)
- Cushions (leaf patterns, palm patterns, sea life patterns)
Raw wood, lush plants, banana leaf pillows. Photo credit: H&M
Natural Light
Large windows, skylights, and glass doors are very common in tropical homes. So natural light is key in tropical design. It opens up spaces, making them airy and inviting.
Don’t be afraid to play with natural light sources. Even if your living room does not offer a lot of natural light, there are ways to maximize sunlight. You can always use mirrors to brighten up a room. Mirrors will open up your space by reflecting light into areas of the room which tend to be darker. Strategically placing a mirror or two can help to resolve that issue. Replace heavy window treatments with lightweight, semi-translucent curtains to help bring in the light.
Tropical Indoor Plants
Another crucial feature of tropical décor is plant life. Nothing says "the tropics" like large, beautiful, leafy plants. Monstera, bromeliads, palms such as kentia and golden cane, and giant bird of paradise are only a few examples. Adding botanicals is a simple and affordable way to bring life and vibrancy to your living room while creating the sense of being on a lush tropical island.
Large plants are perfect for livening up unused corners while vibrant flowers will brighten up your space. If you are a beginner with house plants, Spider plants or ZZ plants are good first choices as they are easy to grow. Some plants like crotons and orchids are simply fussier than others and require more specific lighting and care.
Tropical plants as focal points. Photo credit: The Nordroom
Indoor plants are beneficial for many reasons. They are used for:
- Enhancing interiors
- Purifying the air
- Absorbing sound
- Creating serenity
- Therapeutics and Relieving stress
Accents
There are countless ways to add tropical ambiance to your living room and accents will do the trick:
- Handcrafted wood carvings, figurines, masks and pots
- Handcrafted metal sculptures
- Quality keepsakes from your travels to tropical destinations (nothing tacky or touristy!)
- Carefully selected art which complement tropical styles
- Ornamental decorative items (vases, bowls, serving boards)
- Handblown glass artwork
- Woven baskets and mats
- Terracotta clay pots
Photo credit: KBInteriors
Fabrics
Natural fibers such as linen, sisal, silk, seagrass, and jute complement the organic look of tropical style. Sofas and chairs can be upholstered with cotton or canvas fabrics and accented with silk pillows, rugs can be woven from seagrass or sisal, and ottomans can be covered with jute. Fabrics are a great way to add more texture to your room. Add in linen curtains and some bamboo placemats on a table to complete the look.
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How To Incorporate Tropical Design Into Your Living Space
Below are several essential tips for bringing the vibe of exotic beaches and enchanting jungles into your living room.
- Balance is key – Avoid too many competing bright colors. Use animal prints sparingly. Have a few larger décor pieces be the "anchors" or primary pieces for tabletops and specific floorspaces with a couple of smaller complementing pieces grouped together with the larger ones. This helps to create a more balanced look without things becoming too crowded or visually busy.
- Let you personal style shine through – Your design should speak to you, whether it’s by using deep hues of orange and pink or bright sky blues. This is your space and you have to be sure it takes you to where you want to be! If you allow yourself to unleash your creativity, you will ultimately get the layout and the look you will love.
- Choose accessories that last - Since your design preferences can change over time, invest in accessories that are well made and that you genuinely love. These will last longer and you don't have to worry about trends that come and go. You can store away certain pieces which displaying others and then rotate things later on to change up the look by storing those on display and bringing out the others.
- No need for full room remodel –You can make a big impact even with the smallest changes. For instance, adding a statement piece of wall art or a truly unique piece such as a handmade kava bowl will make your space feel more exotic.
- Layering – By layering furniture and accessories in proper amounts using different materials in contrasting colors and textures, you can be sure that your space will neither be overpowering or monotonous.
20 Tropical Living Room Ideas You Will Love
It’s time to bring the tropics to your home! Continue reading to find tropical design ideas that will help you transform any room in your home into a place of bliss and serenity.
1. Rejuvenation Retreat
Turn part of your living room into a dedicated wellness sanctuary reminiscent of the South Pacific. By having a nook for de-stressing which is only seconds away, you will be able to escape and travel to tropics without actually leaving your home.
Furnish the space with soothing and calming elements. Include pieces such as quality ergonomic chair or sofa, indoor fountains, ambient lighting, and of course, several plants. All of these elements will help you relax after a stressful day, making it a perfect serene retreat.
Photo credit: Homilo, interior design
2. Modern Tropical Living Room
Unlike traditional tropical design which includes several bright colors and multiple textural elements from dark polished woods to lighter bamboo pieces, a more modern tropical style includes simple, clean lines and less color contrast. In this example, the only color that really pops is from the bright green plant.
Everything else from the pots, chairs, and cushions, to the walls and floors are in neutral, earthy colors. Big, boldly designed furnishings and accents can easily be used in color schemes like this one because they increase visual interest without taking over the room.
Photo credit: Pinterest
3. Dark Wall Art & Neutral Upholstery
This small tropical living room includes bold prints, neutral upholstery, dark wall art and tropical greenery. Even though there isn’t a lot of square footage, the illusion of a larger space is achieved by using a clear coffee table and painting the walls white. A few strategically placed ornate accents and a single large palm tree accomplish the desired look of being in a beautiful tropical location.
Photo credit: Shelterness
4. Caribbean Tropical Living Room
Large living rooms are wonderful spaces for bringing in the tropics. Create a tropical haven by using shades of cream on the walls and in the upholstery, and then use coral print pillow and rugs as visual highlights. Frame the look with dark wood and moldings, dark flooring, and plantation shutters.
Photo credit: Architectural Digest
5. Tropical Great Room
If your home has an open-concept space such as this one, you have an awesome space to work with because you can tie the different uses of the room all together in a beautiful cohesive look. Using the same design style and elements for both the living room space and the dining area creates real visual harmony. Keep the walls light, accentuate the ceiling if possible with contrasting open beams and use lots of natural fibers in the window treatments and rugs.
Oversized banana leaves and tropical flower arrangements complete the tropical look in this airy space.
Photo credit: Southern Living
6. Industrial Tropical Living Room
This elegant living area conveys an "industrial chic" vibe. Designed with green and grey tones, it is a very comfortable space. The modern-style seating is covered in a soft, textural fabric. The industrial grey is broken up by the white and green of the wall art. Hanging plants in white pots continue that theme and the varying heights and shapes create added visual interest. The greenery on the wall really brings in some needed plant life. For this type of wall accent, we recommend these faux green panels. Use the brush attachment on your vacuum cleaner to keep them dust free.
Photo credit: Design café
7. Living Room With Character
Here’s a wonderful example of how you can transform a room and get that "Wow!" effect when you get creative and let yourself shine through. The grey and white mural on the wall is awesome!
With just a few statement pieces such as a handcrafted bench used as console table, a couple of rattan chairs, an old trunk used as a coffee table and some muted tropical colors in the upholstery, this room is an excellent example of a truly personalized tropical retreat at home.
Photo credit: Hector Sanchez
8. Boho Tropical Living Room
This room combines tropical and boho styles. "Boho" is a style that is artistic, informal, and unconventional. It is also referred to as "Bohemian" or "Boho chic" and comes from a fashion and lifestyle choice that is unconventional and free-spirited. In this room, neutral colors from the cream walls to the rug and accents provide brightness and airiness. The leather sofa and wood furniture anchor the room with the baskets and potted plants providing the tropical feel.
Photo credit: Shelterness
9. Indoor Water Element
Water is one of the foundational and primary components of the tropics, whether it be in streams cascading over rocks in a rainforest, a jungle waterfall, the crashing ocean waves, or simply tropical rainfall. Bringing water indoors creates a truly serene space. By adding an indoor water wall or a fountain in addition to some tropical greenery, you can create just that, a serene space just for you. The sound of gently cascading water has a tranquil and calming effect which will greatly enhance the tropical atmosphere you are creating. You can go with a simple mirrored water feature such as the one below or you can go with one that features different textures and shapes which creates a different effect with added visual interest.
Photo by: Décor Matters
10. Tropical Décor For Small Spaces
If you don’t have a lot of square footage but still long to have a piece of the tropics at home, here’s an idea for you.
Select a designated area in the room (a console table, a mantle, side tables, or a bookcase) where you can display decorative items that remind you of the tropics. Use tropical greenery as a focal point such as the display here on this console table. Even something as simple as a small jar filled with rocks will bring in an natural element of the tropics. Include keepsakes from past travels and a large-leafed floor plant or two, and you will have created a bit of that wonderful tropical ambiance!
Photo credit: Fodona
11. Bali-Inspired Living Room
This living area is inspired by the wonderful island of Bali. Lots of light comes in through the floor-to-ceiling glass panels which open to the outside.
This spacious room is a great example of how you can use large, leafy outdoor plans to create a lush jungle vibe indoors. The room combines a mid-century style with a touch of industrial with the grey upholstery. Natural elements such as the large palm tree and the wonderful pendant lighting bring in tropical textures. Light fixtures such as these combined with vintage or Edison bulbs are simply awesome and create such a unique and warm look.
Photo credit: Bali Interiors
12. Jungle Accent Wall
In this example, the wall is clearly the focal point. It features bold tropical prints which reduce the need for a lot of additional accent pieces and decor in the room. Combined with the smart use of neutral furnishings which do not compete with the wallpaper for attention, this room is a great escape to a tropical jungle.
If you decide to use wallpaper with a bold pattern such as this, be sure to check the repetition of the pattern on the wallpaper. It will be on the labeling or in the instructions for use. If you have a large wall, you want to be sure that it will not take over the room by creating the same scene over and over again. Also, as mentioned, keep the number of large furnishing pieces only to what you truly need. If you have to many things, the room will quickly feel very crowded because of the wallpaper.
Photo credit: Wallmur
13. Rainforest Colors
This tropical-style space is bursting with colors of a tropical rainforest. The dark terracotta walls pair exceptionally well with the glossy green leaves of the bird of paradise plants. The muted upholstery colors blend well with the lively floor tile pattern while the blue ottomans are reminders of cool ocean waters. Patchwork fabrics which offer several different blues and greens on accent pieces such as pillows or these ottomans are an excellent idea. We love these ones because they are inexpensive and they work!
Photo credit: Benjamin Moore
14. Eclectic Tropical Living Room
Eclectic style is based on combining different styles and periods. In this example, different colors, shapes, textures, and finishes are beautifully blended into a unique living room with character. Things do not need to match. They will simply "go together".
Here, you can see that modern furniture and accessories are mixed with antique pieces. The result is a lively mix of several textures and shapes which create a one-of-a-kind cohesive look.
Photo credit: Design Café
15. Ocean-Inspired Color Palette
Selecting a color palette for a tropical style room is not as hard as it seems. Start with the foundational colors of blues (ocean, sky) and greens (tropical foliage, rainforests, jungles). You should aim to draw inspiration from nature, whether it’s the beach, the ocean itself, or from the rainforest and its wildlife.
This sitting room is an excellent example of how starting with a lot of blue (the walls and the flooring) works because it is immediately toned with the white windows, the contrasting white on the blue ottoman, and the white wood of the armchairs. Greens and a touch of darker yellow are brought in to further break things up and add some tropical balance. This example truly depicts island living!
Photo credit: Trevor Dixon via Better Homes & Gardens
16. Tropical Gallery Wall
If you don’t have a lot of floor space, you can add some wonderful tropical ambiance by creating a gallery wall with a tropical theme.
To make the wall pop, make sure your walls and furniture are neutral in color. The wall art can add as little or as much color as you would like while some shelving with accents can add depth. Pillows and other accents can be used to bring in other colors and textures. In this example, green is the color the pops as beautiful potted tropicals and their bold greens complete the look.
Photo credit: Shelterness
17. Retro Tropical
Tropical vibes can also be achieved by blending retro furniture and décor with tropical colors and accent pieces: ocean-inspired wall art, large ceramic fish sculptures, palm leaves, coral lamp shades, seagrass rugs, and sea blue curtains. The apricot walls and natural fiber rugs balance out the blues, greens, corals and reds. The result is a bright and sunny space with an authentic tropical look.
Photo credit: Annie Schlechter via Southern Living
18. Soothing Earth Tones
Earth tones in décor are known for their remarkably soothing effect. They add warmth to a room, regardless of your décor style. From rich browns to a pastel sage, these calming colors offer a relaxed and cozy feel to any space. Items in these colors can also bring in much needed texture. Materials such as leather, rattan, jute, stone and raw wood will all work. To add some contrast, depth, and character, add several houseplants with differing leaf shapes.
Photo credit: Curated interior
19. Open Concept Layout
This open-concept space is airy, spacious, and beautifully adorned with whites, neutrals, and several greens. Mirrors bring in additional light. White linen cushions on wicker furniture combined with the wood table, plant life and the woven lampshades overhead give this space a calming, earthy, and serene ambiance. As we suggested in Idea #11 above, natural fiber pendant lighting is such a great idea because they simply add so much depth and natural texture to a room.
Photo credit: Lifestyling
20. Compact Sitting Room
This small living room perfectly balances out various colors, materials, textures, and shapes. The white sofas placed around a beautiful wood coffee table and paired with orange and autumn colored pillows provide ample seating in addition to the wicker chair and ottoman. The potted plants bring in the cool, tropical greens which pop against the cream walls and goldenrod carpet. The piece of coral on the end table brings in tropical texture and shape. This is definitely a comfortable space with a laid-back vibe and a tropical vibe.
Photo credit: Home Stratosphere
Final Thoughts
We hope that our ideas for tropical spaces have sparked your imagination! With carefully selected colors and a wide variety of available furnishings and accents, you can use these ideas to create your own personal space which is reminiscent of a sun-drenched island paradise.
Don't forget to share this post! These inspirations should be shared so creativity can be sparked in others who need their own tropical escape!
As you embark on your journey, remember that the essence of tropical interior decorating is not only in the décor itself but in the feelings the complete space evokes – tranquility, warmth, and a connection with nature and the tropics. We wish you great success as you move forward in creating your own tropical sanctuary in your home where you can escape whenever you feel the need.
