If you like hand-crafted items, warm colors and symbols that recall Mexico and the American west, then a Southwestern theme will suit you. Add a little spice to a plain room with some simple textiles and accessories, or go for a full home redesign with furniture, finishes and even outdoor spaces dedicated to a Southwestern theme. Does this Spark an idea?
Palette
The Southwestern palette favors earth tones and warm hues. Think of an earthenware pot or a vivid sunset across a desert canyon and you have the key colors for your decor. However, you needn't rely only on rusty reds, terra cotta, clay browns and deep oranges for your interior. In fact, these shades filling a house might feel overwhelming. Balance the tone with some natural colors, such as lightly stained wood floors or green plants. Keep walls lighter and brighter with a golden yellow or antique white finish.
Furniture
Southwestern furniture comprises solidly constructed pieces with a craftsman's attention to details. A simple wooden cupboard might feature vintage bronze hardware. An iron-frame bed might be painted in a whitewash to give it a vintage look, and accented with throw pillows featuring Navajo Indian designs. A classic piece in Southwestern decor is a tall wooden cabinet with big doors that open to shelves and little niches, perfect for hidden storage or electronic equipment. Set aside money and space for an eye-catching piece like a rustic wooden dining room table with burnt orange table runners or a large painting of a desert landscape.
Accessories
Authentic Southwestern accessories often consist of pieces designed or created by Native Americans. Look for Pueblo Indian pottery or woven baskets. Even simple accessories, such as pillow cases, table lamps, place mats and throws, often feature traditional Indian symbols and motifs. No Southwestern home would be complete without a prominent woven rug, typically featuring repeated geometric designs set against a deep red background. You can emulate a Southwestern look with pieces such as wooden frames, mirrors framed in hammered tin and wrought-iron candle holders or lanterns.
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