Animalcore Decor Is Going Viral — Here’s How to Style It Right

Whether it’s a cool safari print framed and hung on a gallery wall, or an accent chair covered in leopard chenille fabric, animals and the great outdoors have long inspired our design choices. But if I am being honest, “animalcore” is a design concept I never thought I’d be writing about (outside of nursery decor!). That’s right: The latest micro-trend with staying power is bringing the outdoors, well, in. And it’s much more than just drenching patterns from zebra to leopard in eye-popping swaths for a standout accent wall.

This summer’s wildest trend takes cues from the wicker animals, sculptural lamp bases, and pastoral wallpapers often found in children’s bedrooms. But this latest trend is moving past cutesy sheep and bunnies and into more exotic, striking patterns and textures. In 2025, design pros are finding fresh ways to bring these whimsical features into living rooms that scream “adult!” — plus bedrooms and bathrooms that we can’t get enough of. And, to be honest, the reasons why designers are leading us into the jungle make total sense.

At a time when maximalism ideas dominate our social media feeds and zany trends like #foodgirl decor are all the rage, animal motifs that make up animalcore style are quickly becoming interior mainstays. From abstract wall art to lifelike statuettes, these elements paired with statement chairs and lighting will make you do a double-take. Below, I spoke with designers to better understand how pros are balancing forward-thinking interiors with playful animalcore staples — and how you can adapt nature-inspired style at home, too.

“Animalcore is a whimsical, nature-inspired design trend that brings animals into interiors in playful, artistic, or sculptural ways,” says Amy Switzer, owner and principal designer of Amy Switzer Design. She explains that the trend is less about literal depictions, such as taxidermy or even safari-inspired style. Rather, the best designs leaning into animalcore style are centered on charming, character-driven decor accents (think: fun statement pieces like rattan elephants, sheep-shaped ottomans, or lamp bases that resemble animals).

The animalcore trend is gaining a lot of traction right now because “people are craving interiors that feel joyful, personal, and a little bit surreal,” says Switzer. “Post-pandemic, there’s been a strong return to storytelling and maximalism. And animalcore brings both in a way that feels more modern and approachable than traditional animal motifs,” she adds. 

This style also naturally infuses all kinds of materials and colors together in any given room. Leaning into the trend’s basics will add more texture to your space — such as woven rattan and sleek metals — while still feeling cohesive and purposeful.

Courtney Ungaro, an interior designer and AI-design tool Hover partner, says the trend’s fast-growing popularity reflects “a broader shift toward using accessories and personal touches to bring color and character to everyday life.” It’s also a move away from the “quiet luxury” look that has become ubiquitous within the design industry for the last few years.

The most important thing about copping your own animalcore style is that you don’t have to go full “zoo” with this trend. Instead, Switzer says you should be intentional about your choices and opt for one standout piece — such as a figurine, lamp, or even some bookends — that instantly makes a statement. “It’s about charm, not kitsch,” she notes. 

With that said, if you do want to lean all the way into maximalist vibes, there is so much fun to be had. “Layering textures and animal-inspired silhouettes across textiles, lighting, and art can create an immersive vibe,” Switzer adds. “The key is treating animals as artistic elements, not novelties.” 

If you’re wondering where to start, Ungaro advises zeroing in on a fun wallpaper, where you should eye an assortment of animal prints; look for birds, bugs, and jungle cats. “Whether you’re all-in and fully committed to wallpaper or just a simple beige cheetah-print pillow, these fun pieces are a great jumping-off point to draw out paint colors that complement the animal prints and wildlife.”