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Did you know? Horses were first domesticated 4,200 years ago in western Eurasia between the Black and Caspian seas. Yet these creatures have captivated our imagination for much longer – from Paleolithic humans painting equine forms in the Lascaux caves, to modern-day kids sketching horses in their notes as they daydream in class. It’s no surprise, then, that horses have become a source of inspiration for modern interior design as well.
“Many of our customers love the sleekness of a contemporary home, but are also drawn to the natural colors, tones, and materials associated with equestrian culture, farmhouse design, or the American West,” explains Micah Navarro, Assistant Manager at Copenhagen Austin. “Whether you have a horse of your own or just appreciate the majestic nature of the stallion, a ‘modern equestrian’ aesthetic is an exciting way to incorporate rustic furniture, sentiments, and moments into a contemporary space.”
Below, find Navarro and Copenhagen’s tips for styling interiors that channel your inner horse lover.
Start with a strong foundation by incorporating materials and textures that remind you of sundrenched days out on a ranch, or the quiet, earthy atmosphere of a stable at twilight. “When it comes to creating a modern equestrian look, gravitate toward materials like leather, wood, wrought iron, fabric, or even cowhide,” Navarro recommends.
Indeed, the timelessness and versatility of leather furniture means it is equally at home in a sleek and cosmopolitan interior as well as a warm and rustic one. “Take, for instance, our black leather Empire Sofa, or the aniline leather Highback Siesta Chairs that are as comfortable as they are stylish,” Navarro continues.
“Complement your living room seating with tables or case goods made of wood or featuring wood accents, and you’re on your way to achieving a stunning look,” he adds. The Hudson TV Stand is one example of a classic design with a black oak veneer that can fit easily into a modern equestrian space. For a bolder effect, you may enjoy the Atari Coffee Table, with its walnut star-shaped legs, or the Copenhagen Dining Table, with its live-edge acacia top.
Navarro also recommends metal accents with black or bronze finishes to harmonize with an equestrian theme. “The matte black Safari Cee-Table makes for a great place to set a coffee cup down before going out for a morning ride,” he says. He also likes the Jefferson and Ashton Lamps – their sleek metal finishes paired with quirky vintage elements can easily jazz up a rustic interior design scheme.
Finally, you may like the unique look of accessories upholstered in cowhide. A rug like the Brilliant or a throw pillow like the Isabella are an easy way to add chic vibes to a farmhouse style living room or bedroom.
For a horse lover’s interior, Navarro recommends “starting with black or brown as the main color, then accentuating with complementary hues.” Brown is an especially versatile color that comes in a range of tints and shades, from the deep chocolate brown of the Rover Armchair to the warm cognac of the Jayden Sectional, to the light walnut of the Frank Desk.
Accent colors can include whites and beiges; earthy reds, oranges, and yellows; or greens and blues that evoke rolling pastures and clear skies. The Simone Rug is one example of a piece that blends green, brown, yellow, blue, and grey tones in a variegated pattern.
Indeed, pattern is another aspect you can have fun with when building modern equestrian rooms. Experiment with designs that are speckled, striped, geometric, or otherwise evoke a Western aesthetic. The Sphinx Pillow is an easy addition to place on any sofa or armchair, while the Sedona Diamondback Rug makes a bolder statement with a pattern reminiscent of snakeskin.
According to Navarro, choosing base colors in brown or black/white will also make it easy to adapt an equestrian theme based on the time of year. “Feel free to switch up your accessories and add seasonal color highlights in the form of throw pillows, plants, blankets, trays, candles, and more,” he suggests.
Perhaps the most straightforward way to introduce equestrian style into your home is through accessories and decor that depict horses. This is a helpful approach if you’re looking to dabble more casually in the equestrian aesthetic, or don’t want to change up your foundational pieces too much. Think of accessorizing with artwork, sculptures, pillows, blankets, or lamps – and decide how bold or subtle you want to go.
For instance, Navarro recommends a figurine like the Andalusian Horse for someone seeking a more understated accent – with its smaller size and matte black finish, the Andalusian Horse can complement a range of existing aesthetics. Pair it with its companion, the Friesian Horse, for a whimsical mood, or create a grouping with the same sculptures in matte white for a more contemporary Western vibe.
“For someone looking to style a vertical space, our collection of horse-themed photographic wall art offers great options,” Navarro says. One of his favorites is the White Horse artwork, featuring a close-up angle and dramatic 3’ x 6’ size that brings an awe-inspiring mood to any room. The Horse diptych has darker tones and two panels that can be arranged to your liking for a more traditional or edgy effect.
If you want to go all-out with your equestrian interior, you may love the Walking Horse sculpture. Made of aluminum with a hollow structure featuring cut-out areas, this life-size work of art is undeniably bold.
Alternately, you may consider putting equestrian gear like horseshoes, saddles, bridles, or boots on display in your home. Be aware of the effect you want to create when incorporating these items, as a little can go a long way.
Horses have played a role in human culture, society, and art for millennia, and a modern equestrian aesthetic is a perfect way to reflect this timelessness. Whether you’re a dedicated horse lover who never grew out of their “horse girl” phase, or a more casual admirer of farmhouse style or modern rustic homes, it can be simpler than you think to craft living spaces that reflect your passion. Browse our collection or visit us in-store for inspiration.