Southwestern decorating style is a popular design movement that captures the spirit of the American southwest. This style is characterized by a bold mix of earthy colors, natural materials, and intricate craftsmanship from Native American, Spanish, and Mexican cultures. Below are some key elements found in Southwestern style decor:
With these elements, creating a Southwestern-inspired home is a great way to enjoy the natural beauty and rich cultural history of the Southwest. By adding just a few key pieces or incorporating the whole design style, anyone can add warmth and depth to their living space.
Introduction to Southwestern decorating style
Southwestern decorating style has a long history as it originates from the Native American and Spanish cultures with some influences from Mexican culture. This style is characterized by the use of earthy tones, cactus green, and vibrant colors of the desert sunset. Natural elements like wood, stone, and clay are also integral to this style which brings a strong sense of the outdoors inside a home. To achieve the Southwestern style, one needs to combine all these elements with Native American, Spanish, and Mexican artistic flair.
Earthy tones of Southwestern style
The Southwestern style is known for the use of earthy tones like beige, rust, and brown that are reminiscent of the desert landscape. These colors are warm and inviting and offer a great backdrop for other elements of Southwestern decor. To make these tones work in a room, one can add accents of brighter colors like turquoise and red which adds depth to the overall decor.
Cactus green in Southwestern decor
Another prominent color in Southwestern decor is cactus green. This color takes its inspiration from the lush cacti that thrive in the Southwest region. It brings a fresh, natural vibe to the decor and can be used in many ways, from wall paint to accent pillows, making it a versatile color.
Vibrant desert sunset colors in Southwestern styling
Nothing sets the Southwestern style apart quite like the vibrant colors of a desert sunset. This is the perfect time of day to witness the beauty of the Southwest with hues ranging from deep oranges and pinks to shades of deep purple and blue. These colors work well in accents like rugs, curtains, and artwork.
Natural elements in Southwestern decor
In addition to color, the Southwestern decorating style is characterized by the use of natural elements like leather, wood, and stone. These materials bring a sense of the outdoors inside. Wooden furniture like tables and chairs add warmth to a room, while leather furniture, especially couches and chairs, add an element of elegance and sophistication. Stone accent walls and fireplaces can also be used to bring a rustic feel to a Southwestern decor.
Native American, Spanish, and Mexican artistic flair
Native American, Spanish, and Mexican artistic flair brings a unique and authentic touch to Southwestern style decor. These cultures have a rich history of artistic expression, including pottery, wall hangings, and textiles. These pieces are crafted with finesse, and attention to detail, making them perfect for adding a stand-out feature to a room.
Pro Tip: Use bright-colored textiles like woven blankets or geometric patterned pillows to add a pop of color to a room and enhance the Southwestern vibe.
Injecting the spirit of the Southwest through decor
In conclusion, it is clear that Southwestern decorating style brings a sense of the great outdoors inside the home with earthy tones, cactus green color, vibrant desert sunset hues, and natural elements such as wood, leather, and stone. Native American, Spanish, and Mexican artistic flair adds unique and authentic touches to Southwestern decor. Whether you’re in a city apartment or an actual desert, Southwestern style can be a staple in any home that wants a rustic touch that speaks to the outdoors and is perfect for a cozy, welcoming home environment.
