When it comes to Interior Alaska’s interior design taxidermy has its place. Maybe it’s a large, furry bear rug or a majestic moose mount. It might be a classic caribou antler chandelier or a tiny stuffed ptarmigan. Taxidermy has a rich history in Alaska décor. But not everyone wants animals all over their walls. If you’re on the fence about taxidermy in your home, here are some ways to tastefully bring the outdoors in.
ANTLERS ARE IN
Antlers are having a major moment in home design. Interior designers have found their simplicity compliments many design trends. Antlers are the perfect accessory to play up the cozy cabin look. Their neutral shades also provide an excellent accent to any modern farmhouse feel. And they’re even popping up in high-end homes. Antlers are so popular right now that companies are manufacturing and selling fake ones as decor. The trend is turning the casual hobby of "shed hunting" into big business for some who sell antlers they find.
Antlers are versatile and simple, which makes them the perfect way to dip your toes into adding taxidermy to your home in a classic way. Add some antlers to a centerpiece at the dinner table. Place one next the mantle, or with some flowers or seasonal décor by the front door. Or turn a pile into a chandelier. There are a lot of options for antlers.
CONSIDER ROOM SIZE
Taxidermy comes in many shapes and sizes. There are rugs, skull mounts, shoulder mounts, full-body mounts and more. If you’re looking for a location for taxidermy, consider the size of the room compared to the size of the piece. Shoulder mounts, especially if they have large antlers like on moose and caribou, work best in rooms with high ceilings. Smaller mounts like fish and birds can be hung in hallways or displayed on coffee tables. European mounts, which are just the skull/antlers, have found a place in bedrooms and offices. There’s even a trend to add flowers to European mounts for a bohemian feel. While other people just choose to have “trophy room” where all their taxidermy is on display in a single space.
TAXIDERMY TELLS A STORY Some people have taxidermy in their home because they like the look, but for most it tells a story. If you’re not thrilled to have it on display, consider your roommate or partner, it likely represents an incredibly special memory. Plus, taxidermy isn’t cheap. They probably paid a pretty penny to preserve this memory. Help tell the story by displaying information about where the animal was harvested. This adds a personal element. You can also hang photos from the hunt, or a metal or canvas landscape photo. Alaska hunting adventures take place in some beautiful country and the scenery will look great on the wall.
Whether you’re looking to tastefully add a little taxidermy to your home or there’s no room left on any wall, there’s only one real rule that applies to taxidermy: Your home, your design. So, love it or hate it, having it in your house is up to you.
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