Introducing Tortuga
A tropical state of mind, the rise of bold prints in interiors.
When it comes to statement fabrics, few styles carry the energy of a tropical print. Tortuga, designed in-house by our studio, takes the tropics off the postcard and straight into interiors, serving colour, charisma and a big hit of escapism.
Jet-Set Palms, The Evolution of Tropical Style
Tropical motifs have been splashed across everything from Hawaiian shirts to Hollywood sets since the early 20th century, think exotic palm fronds and flamboyant florals through the 1920s and 1930s, often paired with gold and pearls. By the 60s, bold botanicals were the uniform of jet-set glamour, where poolside lounging defined Riviera chic. Even Elvis immortalised the tropical shirt, turning it into a symbol of cool rebellion.
Today, fashion brands like Dolce & Gabbana, or Versace reimagine lush botanical backdrops as powerful contemporary statements, proving the tropical motif’s staying power. No longer tokens of kitsch, tropical prints are sophisticated, multi-layered statements designed to drench interiors of every style with playful drama.
Inspiration for Tortuga. Image credit: Chair by Mestixmx, Bananas by Brittany Ferns, Space by Cecilialemosarq, Space by Atelier Ochre and fruit by Pinterest.
Mood Boosters in Bloom
There’s a reason we associate tropical prints with good times. Lush greenery and saturated florals bring an instant lift, echoing nature’s boldest palette. In design psychology, high-contrast colour and oversized motifs stimulate energy, optimism and confidence.
Research into colour psychology shows that saturated tones of orange and yellow encourage positivity, while greens restore balance and calm. Floral and plant motifs alone can reduce stress and enhance mood, a concept known as biophilic design. In short, tropicals are proven mood boosters. Tortuga’s fruit-infused motifs and palette are inspired by sunsets and jungle greens, a visual cocktail that is equal parts playful and sophisticated.
“Put the lime in the coconut and drink ’em both up” – Harry Nilsson
Styling Tropical Prints in Interiors
Pulling off a print this punchy takes confidence, but that’s the point. Here’s how to get it right:
Hero it: Let Tortuga dominate one key piece, such as an armchair, a feature wall, or a set of oversized cushions. Keep the rest of the space grounded with plains and neutrals.
Balance with texture: Tropical prints with a dry hand feel are suited to being paired with natural fibres like linen, rattan and timber, this ensures the look feels curated rather than kitschy.
Colour story: Pick one or two tones from the print and repeat them subtly throughout the space, a vase here, a throw there, it will tie everything together without overwhelming.
Go maximal or… don’t hold back: Mix Tortuga with other bold prints in considered doses for a high-fashion, editorial look. Think modern eclectic rather than chaotic clash, with this style more is always more. Anchor the mix by coordinating one colour thread across each pattern, or balance scale by pairing oversized botanicals with finer geometrics to keep the look intentional.
Tortuga is a dual-purpose collection that integrates effortlessly into any space.
Fringe side table by Locki Humphrey and rug by Weave Home.
Create a curated, maximalist statement with Tortuga. Glassware by Hot Haus.
Bold prints are storytellers
Bold prints don’t just decorate a room, they set the narrative. A tropical print is about escape, travel, glamour, and living life a little louder. It’s a conversation starter, a centrepiece, and a reminder that interiors can be as expressive as identity itself. Tortuga embodies this philosophy, fearless design that transforms a room into a playful paradise experience.
Fringed side table by Locki Humphrey, Rug by Designer Rugs "Walter" and, Glassware by Hot Haus and floor lamp by Grandfathers Axe.
Rug by Designer Rugs "Walter".
Rug by Designer Rugs "Walter"
Chair by GrandFathers Axe, fringed side table by Locki Humprey and rug by Weave Home.
