There are five elements in feng shui and Traditional Chinese Medicine philosophy that comprise all of life:  water, wood, fire, earth and metal.  Fire is the element in feng shui out of the five elements that creates the most dynamic, loud and scintillating changes in an environment and your life.  Think about it— fire turns wood into energy.  This works the same inside your home.  While fire is usually associated with the colors red, pink, orange and violet, I am here to tell you that animal prints can be a sexy way to add fire when you don’t want so much color. For many- like myself- you can “feel” more fire from an exotic print than from pure color.  Also, it doesn’t take much leopard, panther, tiger or zebra to make a very big statement.  I’ve collected some inspiring ways to bring the exotic fire of safari indoors for you, so keep reading… !

re-do your ottoman in zebra, or get a thrift one and send it straight to the local upholstery people!

fabulous chairs add a touch of vibrancy.

If you want to go very big, try printed wallpaper. But not more than a wall or two, please... too much of a good thing is usually bad!

If you need a one-size-fits-all solution to a room that lacks fire, a zebra rug works wonders! ( &vintage ones are really nice if you can find them)

And, as always, pillows are the easy way to add texture and print without commitment!

One of the best parts of adding animal print is that its so easy to just add without a ton of planning; you can integrate the prints almost anywhere with huge success!  Good luck! xoxo Dana