The Ultimate Guide to Global Style

Design: B. Pila Design Studio

Rooted in an admiration for the world's diverse cultures, global style is an artful blend of worldly finds, earthy materials, and exotic patterns. Traditionally global-inspired homes emulate the styles of far-flung destinations, like Asia and Africa. Though each global space is unique, pulling style cues from multifaceted regions, they all feel at once homey and inspiring. Discover key elements of global style and find out how to transport this look into your abode.

Global Style Basics

• Patterns inspired by ancient weaving methods
• Collected statues, handicrafts, and artwork from around the world
• A palette of earth tones with pops of spice-inspired colours
• Carved wood tables and decorative elements

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Diverse Motifs, Patterns, and Styles

Design: Kelly Rogers Interiors

Design: Kimberly Hall Creative

Though a global-style space doesn't have to play favourites with countries, often it trends one direction or the other. Each country has its own traditions and culture; these inform the style of the homes in that region, from layout and feel to patterns and motifs. To make your decorating job easier, set your sights on one of these destinations, each of which has a definite style.

Japan
To get the Zen-style Japanese look, you'll want to pare down your decor (display only what is necessary), decorate with natural materials (bamboo, river rock, flagstone); and work in cherry blossom motifs.

India
To emulate super-saturated Indian style, you'll want to decorate with carved wood tables, chairs, and screens; elephant motifs; bold, colourful textiles; arched mirrors; and suzani patterns. 

Morocco
To create a chic Moroccan desert feel, you'll want to incorporate rich jewel-tone fabrics; a sea of floor pillows; lanterns inlaid with colourful glass; and zillij mosaic tiles or textiles.

Africa
To reflect a Saharan African style, you'll want to start with a neutral palette; add in graphic mudcloth print patterns; and include animal (lions, giraffes, elephants) motifs

China
To design a Chinese-inspired space, you'll want to work pagoda-style lamps into the space; use red liberally; embrace intricate hand-painted patterns; and don't forget a pair of foo dogs (pairs only, just one is bad luck!). 

A Worldly Palette

Design: Antonio Martins Interior Design

Design: VEDA Design Group

Dark browns, soft tans, and black lay a neutral backdrop for bold patterns, intricate furniture, and treasured artifacts to stand out. Spice-inspired hues—vivid saffron yellow, cayenne red, tandoori orange, or fennel green—add warmth and character, often on textiles and art.

Global style offers plenty of wiggle room, so don't be constrained by this palette. Colours should reflect your tastes and travels rather than a typical global-style space. African-inspired spaces stick to a more neutral palette with pops of black, while Indian- and Moroccan-style spaces embrace boldly saturated hues, including blue, purple, and pink.

An Iconic Element

One of the most recognizable global-style pieces is a patterned floor cushion. Japan, Morocco, and India all embrace sitting on cushions, whether while lounging or eating.

Keep a few stacked in a corner to add texture and colour. Pull them out as extra seating around the coffee table when hosting. Try a soft, comfy floor cushion for lounging, or a stiffer, firmer pouf to use as an ottoman.

Editors' Tips for Perfecting the Look

Design:Burnham Design

• When travelling, skip tourist trap memorabilia shops and opt for authentic treasures, like handmade crafts from that region.
• Keep your background tones natural and neutral, this way collected finds appear be cohesive, even if from different parts of the world.
• Upholster a chair in a motif from your favourite destination. This standout piece will be a real conversation starter. 

Get the Look