- Colors Look to the desert Southwest to inspire your color palette. For example, the greens of cacti and succulents as well as the pinks and reds from cactus flowers could be used. Think of a sunrise or sunset landscape in the Southwest — a mix of coral, purple, brown and blue — and incorporate theses shades into the wall colors, fabric choices and accessories.
- Textiles The textiles in Southwestern-style decorating often feature motifs inspired by American Indian cultures native to the region. Rugs and blankets made by Navajo Indians can be used for their intended purpose or folded and casually placed on top of a wooden chest or in another conspicuous place. Diamond patterns are prominently featured in Zapotec rugs and table runners. Materials are natural, such as cotton and wool. Use a blend of patterned and solid textiles to keep the room from becoming too busy. For example, if the rugs have large, colorful patterns, use a much smaller pattern or solid color on upholstered furniture, and vice versa.
- Materials Southwestern-style furniture is usually made from wood and polished to a rustic finish. The detailing is simple – without ornate carvings – and furniture pieces such as armoires and cabinets tend to be substantial. Accent furniture can be painted, but keep the color palette natural, and if it’s a do-it-yourself project, run a piece of sandpaper over the finish to give it a distressed look. Leather, suede, cotton and wool reflect our connection with nature and man’s historical reliance on animals in the Southwest. Any of these materials can be used for upholstery, rugs and other accessories. Slate and terra cotta, which are often used to make roof tiles in the Southwest, can be employed to create walkways into and throughout the home. River rock, turquoise and other stones can accent décor or be used to landscape the grounds. Wrought iron is commonly used for accessories such as wall sconces and lamps.
- Accessories Accessories can enhance a Southwestern-style home. Vivid rugs used as wall hangings bring instant color to a room. Hand-painted tiles and clay pottery are a big part of Southwestern décor, especially pottery made by the Pueblo Indians. If you cannot find or afford original art, such as sand paintings, consider buying plain items and painting them yourself. Protect the paint on the finished product with a few coats of a clear sealant. Images of gecko lizards and Kokopelli, a fertility deity usually depicted as a flute player, are commonly used motifs. Consider adding a few items with these images, such as a bath mat or wrought-iron wall hanging.
Tips
- Add plants such as cacti and succulents to the room. This is a way to bring nature indoors.
- Items found in nature can make great accessories. For example, a glass vase or large bowl can be filled with rocks and used as a centerpiece on a table. Or gather a large bungle of twigs and tie them together with leather cords to accent the fireplace.
- Some paint manufacturers make textured paints that coordinate well with Southwestern décor. Consult your local hardware or paint store for ideas.