Unusual Home Décor Trends: Why Insects Are In
Now, before you start envisioning a swarm of locusts in your living room, when we say insects are in, we’re talking about a décor trend that’s been around for centuries yet still feels wonderfully underground: entomology art. This unique form of décor features preserved insects; from iridescent beetles and delicate butterflies to striking moths, and dramatic spiders and scorpions. Whether framed in a minimalist display or showcased beneath a glass dome, insect art can be styled to suit everything from modern interiors to maximalist spaces. It’s a fun, beautiful, elegant, and daring way to bring a piece of the natural world indoors, with an endless array of species to choose from.
Refined, organic and visually striking... perfect for a modern interior.
Unusual home décor has never been more desirable. In a world of beige walls, predictable prints, and AI generated 'art', more homeowners are turning to the unexpected: pieces that spark curiosity, conversation, and just a little bit of controversy.
Insects are otherworldly. From spindly spiders to glistening butterflies, they have a unique ability to fascinate us. The sight of an insect sparks an instinctive reaction. You don’t have to love bugs to recognise their beauty or feel a flicker of curiosity. Whether it’s a soft, velvety moth, a large and luminous blue morpho butterfly, or a jet-black scorpion, there’s an insect (or arachnid!) to captivate every kind of admirer.
The intricate details of the Walking Leaf Insect makes it a favourite among collectors.
These minibeasts have been a source of fascination for centuries. Butterflies in particular have long been celebrated for their symbolism and beauty across cultures. The African Monarch butterfly (Danaus chrysippus) appears in artwork discovered in Egyptian tombs dating back to around 1350 BCE — proof that our admiration for these delicate creatures is anything but new.
"Fowling in the Marshes" Egyptian artwork depicting the African Monarch butterfly. Photo by Ashley Van Haeften, 2016.
Insects have continued to flutter through art, literature, and poetry ever since. Inspired by the themes of transformation and metamorphosis, Vincent Van Gogh painted "Great Peacock Moth" in 1889, which he believed was a Deaths Head Hawk Moth. His identification was incorrect, however the Deaths Head Hawk Moth has it's prominent place in pop culture. The 'Silence Of The Lambs' movie poster is famously known for its image with the Moth, which is often associated with death and bad luck, in stark contract to the butterfly’s associations with rebirth and hope.
Vincent van Gogh, CC BY-SA 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Art and insects are far more intertwined than most would imagine. Even Beyonce has an insect connection: a species of horsefly, Scaptia beyonceae, was named in her honour by Australian entomologist Dr. Bryan Lessard, who described it as the “all-time diva of flies”, and “bootylicious.” While human interest in insects dates back to prehistory, once naturalists started collecting them for preservation in the 16th century, they quickly found their way into people's homes and hearts.
The bootylicious Beyonce Fly. Photo by Bryan D. Lessard, 2012.
Perhaps it’s our intrinsic desire to breathe fresh air and feel in sync with the living world around us. In the digital age, we’re more connected than ever, yet many of us feel increasingly disconnected. We long for intimacy: with people, with nature, with art that feels real and grounding. This yearning has paved the way for the rise of biophilic design: a philosophy centred on incorporating organic elements, patterns and lighting to create an environment that fosters a deep, innate connection with nature. Rooted in psychology as much as aesthetics, biophilic interiors are known to reduce stress, boost mood, and enhance productivity and creativity, all while creating spaces of effortless beauty. With earthy tones and non-linear shapes, entomology art sits seamlessly within this movement. It offers a refined yet striking way to bring nature indoors, and not just as a print or imitation, but as the real thing.
Natural elements, like plants, are taking centre stage in our homes.
With the growing popularity of “slow fashion” comes the rise of “slow décor.” Driven by a desire to counteract overconsumption and make more conscious choices, people are moving away from disposable trends and investing in statement pieces that last. Insect taxidermy is a natural fit for this mindset. Timeless and versatile, it transcends seasonal trends. Even those who refresh their interiors regularly are often surprised by how effortlessly adaptable entomology art can be. The same piece can complement a minimalist space, add drama to a gothic interior, bring intrigue to a vintage setting, or elevate a sleek modern home. A simplistic framed specimen can soon be a centre piece in a maximalists gallery wall. With beauty that doesn't fade, entomology art isn't just décor, it's a forever piece.
Beautiful and timeless, butterflies can seamlessly be woven into any style interior.
From ancient symbolism to contemporary interiors, insects have always held a quiet power over our imagination. They represent transformation, resilience, beauty, and the delicate balance of the natural world; qualities that feel more meaningful than ever within our homes. Choosing entomology art isn’t about following a trend. It’s about embracing something timeless, intentional, and unapologetically unique. It’s about curating a space that reflects curiosity, individuality, and a deeper connection to nature.
If you’re ready to move beyond predictable décor and invest in a piece that tells a story, explore our collection and discover the specimen that speaks to you. Nature has always been the greatest artist, sometimes, all it needs is the right frame.
