The 3 Pillars that Make West African Interior Design Unique

West African Interior design: A well-lit, wide shot shows a warmly decorated dining area. A long natural wood dining table is the main focus, set within a banquette seating area composed of light cream-colored cushioned benches with wooden frames. The table is set with a blue vase containing wildflowers, along with small bowls filled with green contents. Decorative pillows in shades of orange and brown are placed on the benches, adding to the inviting atmosphere. Above the banquette, two square artworks adorn the deep brown wall. The artwork on the left features a tree with a black trunk and orange leaves against a yellow background, while the second painting displays a forest scene dominated by yellows and greens. On either side of the seating area, tall green plants in dark pots soften the room's edges and bring a touch of nature indoors. A colorful patterned rug lies beneath the table, adding visual interest and grounding the space. To the right, a sliding glass door with a light beige curtain allows natural light to flood the room, revealing a glimpse of the outdoor area, while a wooden cabinet provides storage. The room is characterized by warm tones, natural materials, and a sense of comfortable sophistication.

Last updated on: March 14, 2025

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From Senegal’s golden sands to the lush forests of Ivory Coast, West African Interior design is as diverse as the landscapes that shape it. It is an an amazing world of craftsmanship, culture, and color. Having been born and raised in the region myself, this world has a special place in my heart. I distinctly remember the colors, the furniture, the prints, and all the other things that make West African interior design unique.

So today, join me as I journey through the homes of West Africa, where woodcraft, textiles, and art converge to create spaces that live with the heartbeat of the region.

In this article:

1. Woodcraft: The Anchor of West African Interior Design

Wood is the backbone of West African Interior Design, and the craftsmanship is nothing short of amazing. In this region, wood isn’t just a material; it’s a medium for storytelling and artistry. Tables, chairs, stools, and doors made of durable local woods are carved with techniques that honor age-old traditions.

A warm and inviting entryway features a wooden dresser adorned with lush greenery, complemented by a vibrant rug leading to a stately wooden door, all bathed in the soft glow of a decorative chandelier.

Regal Stools

We’re starting with West African stools because there is something particularly distinctive about them. Take the iconic Ashanti stools from Ghana, for example. More than just a place to sit, they symbolize royal power and cultural identity. Their curved seats and masterful carvings make them standout pieces. Meanwhile, the Senufo stools from Ivory Coast adopt a more understated approach. Their elegance, although minimalist, is felt through the room.

A handcrafted Ashanti Stool - wooden stool with a curved seat, supported by three pillars, the central one perforated with square holes and the flanking ones serrated, all resting on a rectangular base engraved with linear and triangular patterns.
Ashanti Stool at the Brooklyn Museum, file licensed under the Creative Commons Attribution 3.0 Unported license

Authentic and modern versions of these stools are placed throughout West African homes. Beside adding dimension to the room, these pieces are extremely versatile. They can serve as a side table, provide extra seating, or simply be a stylish addition to a decor display.

A cozy living room scene features an Ashanti inspired wooden stool against a backdrop of neutral tones, and another stool in the background. On the right, a light beige couch is adorned with patterned pillows and a single light brown accent pillow. A carved wooden stool sits in front of the couch, holding two stacked books; the top book has "COPPER COIN" printed one the spine. Adjacent to the couch, on the left, is a matching stool topped with two potted green plants. A large window provides natural light, illuminating the room and the textured rug below.

Elegant Tables

On the table side, gorgeous pieces crafted from native woods like teak, ebony or—my favorite—mahogany, make the most beautiful statements. Whether it’s coffee tables, console tables, or dining tables there’s always something grounded and sophisticated about them.

If you opt for such tables, look for pieces made from reclaimed wood as a more sustainable option. This choice both preserves the environment and supports local initiatives.

Dining room with wooden ceiling rafters, long mahogany wood table, tan upholstered chairs, and a modern hanging light fixture. A large sliding glass door brings in a view of the green lawn.

Unique Carved Doors

For those who really want to make a statement, African carved doors are the way to go. Picture this: a massive wooden door adorned with symbolic motifs representing centuries-old beliefs and traditions. In Nigeria, Yoruba artisans are known for carved doors depicting community values, while in Mali, the Dogon people craft doors with intricate carvings inspired by ancestral legends.

An ornately carved wooden Dogon door from Mali, depicting scenes of people and animals.
Large Dogon door with beautiful carvings from Mali

In fact, these items are art installations rather than doors. They inspire the design of home doors throughout the region. A grand entrance in every sense of the word.

Ornate West African wooden double doors with black handles, set in a matching wooden frame, stand at the top of a short flight of cream-colored steps, flanked by greenery.

2. Textiles and Patterns: Bringing Color and Culture Home

Iconic West African Textiles

When it comes to textiles, West Africa doesn’t hold back. Colorful, bold, and full of meaning, West African fabrics are all about boldness and cultural pride. From the rhythmic patterns of Mali’s mud cloth to the royal vibrance of Ghana’s Kente cloth, these textiles add an unmistakable flair to any room.

Mud cloth from Mali
Mud cloth – Mali
Adire cloth – Nigeria
Kente cloth – Ghana
  • Mud cloth, known as Bogolanfini in Mali, is handwoven and dyed using fermented mud—a labor-intensive process that results in striking geometric designs.
  • Then there’s Adire cloth from Nigeria, a tie-dye textile with mesmerizing indigo patterns.
  • Or of course, the iconic Kente cloth from Ghana, woven with vibrant silk or cotton strips, historically worn by royalty but now a bold design choice for modern interiors.

Bold Design Accents

West African interior design: Living room with a beige couch that has vibrant throw pillows on it, round wooden coffee table on a red patterned rug, red armchair, and a large, colorful piece of art on the wall.

The possibilities for incorporating these textiles are endless. Nice ways of adding them to your interior include:

  • styling throw pillows with covers made out of bold-patterned textiles
  • upholstering pieces such as accent chairs or ottomans
  • reflecting these iconic patterns on a rug or wall hanging.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can also use African-inspired wallpaper to create an accent wall that truly stands out.

West African interior design: Bedroom with a wooden headboard, white linens, and a vibrant west african patterned wallpaper.

For pieces using high-quality West African textiles, Eva Sonaike’s collection is a must-see. Her designs blend traditional West African patterns with a contemporary twist, making it easy to bring this dynamic style into any modern home.

3. Vibrant West African Art: The Soul of the Region

In West Africa, art is a way of life. No West African interior would be complete without the stunning works of local artists, which you’ll find no shortage of.

Stunning Wall Art

Start with contemporary artists who are taking the global art scene by storm. In Senegal, Abdou Karim Fall captures everyday life with bold colors and expressive brushstrokes that burst with emotion. His paintings are a vivid window into West African culture. Meanwhile, Laolu Senbanjo, a Nigerian artist known for his intricate “Afromysterics” style, blends traditional Yoruba symbols with modern narratives, creating mesmerizing black-and-white illustrations.

Discover 5 Beautiful African Wall Decor Ideas for a Standout Home

West African art: A contemporary home office setup featuring a light wooden desk with black trestle legs, a mustard-colored chair, and a large, vibrant painting of an African woman dominating the space above the desk. A laptop, books, and small decorative items add a sense of personalized functionality to the workspace, while potted plants bring a touch of nature to the interior.

Photography also plays a big role in West African art. The legendary Seydou Keïta of Mali documented Bamako’s cosmopolitan life in the 1940s and 50s, capturing the elegance and pride of his subjects. His black-and-white portraits are timeless, offering a glimpse into a golden era of West African culture.

Captivating Masks and Bronze Figures

If you’re drawn to traditional crafts, you’re in for a treat. West Africa is home to some of the most iconic masks and sculptures in African art:

  • The Baule masks of Ivory Coast, with their delicate features and serene expressions, symbolize harmony and community.
  • The Dan masks from Liberia are equally captivating, often featuring bold designs meant to inspire awe during ceremonial dances.
  • And for a touch of grandeur, consider a bronze sculpture from Benin, where the royal artisans were masters of casting elaborate figures and plaques.
A side view of a West African tribal hanging on a white wall.

Sculptural Wooden Pieces

But the artistic journey doesn’t end there. West African artisans are known for transforming wood into magnificent sculptures. Imagine a carved wooden head displayed on a console table or a sculpted chair that doubles as a conversation starter. These pieces build up the personality of the home and add a welcome touch of drama.

A still life composition featuring vases and sculptures on a wooden cabinet, set against a muted background. A large, abstract wooden sculpture with a flowing, organic shape dominates the arrangement, placed on a rectangular black base. To the left, a stout, round vase with a narrow neck has a matte finish. A smaller, textured, spherical sculpture rests on a cylindrical black pedestal between the wooden sculpture and a slender, tear-drop-shaped vase that holds slender branches. The cabinet below has a grooved façade and two drawers. The overall color palette is neutral and earthy.

With choices ranging from subtle to bold, there’s something to suit every taste and enhance any room. For those interested in exploring or purchasing authentic West African art, online galleries like Art Kelen offer stunning collections that celebrate both contemporary and traditional creations.

Bringing West African Interior Design Into Your Home

To sum it up, West African Interior Design is a vibrant blend of creativity and cultural pride. It invites you to explore bold colors, intricate patterns, and exceptional craftsmanship. Whether you’re drawn to the symbolic power of woodcraft, the rich storytelling of textiles, or the bold beauty of West African art, there’s no shortage of inspiration.

If you’re ready to bring the spirit of West Africa into your home, start by choosing a piece that resonates with you, and let it guide the rest of your design journey.

And if you enjoyed this deep dive into West African Interior Design, check out our article on 7 Exciting African Interior Design Styles for Your Next Makeover—it’s packed with ideas to inspire your next home transformation.

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