Decorating & Design
February 7, 2020
How To Bring Justina Blakeney’s Global Style Home
You can’t help but smile — and get inspired to book a plane ticket — when you catch a glimpse of Justina Blakeney‘s global designs. Saturated with sunset hues, sprinkled with lush foliage and injected with rich texture from Morocco to Mexico, the California-based designer knows how to bring the world to her front door. We sat down with the Jungalow founder to talk about what inspires her, her favorite trend for 2020 and how you can bring her global aesthetic home.
House & Home: How would you describe your design style?
Justina Blakeney: “My design style is colorful, patternful and jungalicious! I love mixing patterns, incorporating items from my heritage and my travels into my designs, and I love bringing nature into the home, in many manifestations.”
H&H: What are some key essentials for creating a global look at home?
JB: “I think textiles can really help to make a home feel collected and global. There are so many ways to use textiles: they can cover upholstery — from headboards to sofas — they can be table cloths or wall hangings. Some of my favorites are Suzani from Uzbekistan, Moroccan Handira (wedding blankets), Otomi embroidery from Mexico and indigo-dyed fabrics from Mali.”
H&H: Where do you find your inspiration? Is there a travel destination you keep drawing from in your designs?
JB: “Morocco is a big source of inspiration for me. But honestly any destination can be inspiring. This morning on my jog I took a detour off my regular path and found some gorgeous Spanish-style homes and cactus gardens that were absolutely stunning! Inspiration is truly everywhere.”
H&H: What is one design essential you can’t live without?
JB: “Well, plants (obviously)!”
H&H: Any tips for incorporating lush greenery into your space?
JB: “Plants can enliven any dreary corner or under-utilized surface. Place plants on the floor, on furniture (like at the top of a tall buffet) or kitchen shelves. They can hang from rafters and some plants even love living in showers! Being surrounded by plants is good for the spirit, so go wild.”
H&H: Your use of bold color, texture and pattern is inspiring. How do you mix and match without it looking too busy?
JB: “Thanks! I focus on color and scale mostly to ensure that the patterns coincide harmoniously. I like to use natural materials and natural colors as neutrals to balance out the bold colors too.”
H&H: What is your advice for someone hoping to emulate the “Justina Blakeney” look in their own home?
JB: “Don’t be afraid to try things out. Experimentation is key to the look!”
H&H: What is a design trend you’re loving for 2020?
JB: “I love that natural materials, from cane matting to pencil rattan, jute and raffia seem to be infiltrating every design style — I’m all about it!”