Southwestern style is a home design trend that draws inspiration from the Native American, Spanish, and Anglo cultures and history of the American Southwest and Mexico. It features natural colors, rustic materials, adobe walls, wood beams, and ironwork. It also incorporates textiles, patterns, and nature elements from the desert environment. Southwestern style can be applied to modern homes with contemporary furnishings.
The Origins of Southwestern Style
Southwestern style has three main influences:
- Native American: The Navajo tribe is one of the most influential Native American groups in the Southwestern region. They have a long tradition of creating beautiful, colorful, woven blankets and textiles; handmade pottery and woven baskets; and personal goods, like turquoise jewelry and leather items. Today, you can still see the Navajo influence in Southwestern style. If you want to decorate with Navajo-inspired home accents, make sure to buy them directly from Navajo artisans or those living in the Navajo Nation. This way, you can support their craft and their community.
- Spanish: The Spanish settlers were some of the first to arrive in the Southwestern United States. They brought with them their building techniques that suited the climate and the resources of the region. They used adobe (for the walls) and red clay (for roof tiles) to construct their homes. Some key elements of Spanish Colonial style include thick, white stucco walls, red clay roof tiles, wooden beams and accents, and earthy color palettes.
- American West: The iconic “wild west” is also a major influence in today’s Southwestern home decor. The American settlers had to adapt to the harsh and hot terrain with limited materials. They used items that were practical and durable, like cowhide rugs, rustic, wooden furniture, and hammered metal accents.
Elements of Southwestern Style
When it comes to decorating your home in Southwestern style, you should always follow your own taste and preferences. However, there are some common elements that can help you achieve the rustic, earthy look:
- Simple, white walls. Like a traditional Spanish Colonial home, opt for white walls as a backdrop for your furniture and accessories. White walls can also make your space brighter and more spacious.
- Earthy color palettes. Use colors that reflect the desert landscape, such as terracotta, brown, and turquoise. These colors can add warmth and contrast to your white walls.
- Vibrant ceramics. Add some color and pattern to your floors, backsplashes, archways, or vanities with Talavera tiles. These are hand-painted, tin-glazed pottery that originated in Puebla, Mexico in the 16th century. They feature intricate designs in bold shades of blue, yellow, green, and more.
- Woven textiles. Add some texture and coziness to your sofa, bed, or floor with woven textiles. You can use Navajo blankets or rugs that have graphic patterns and vibrant colors. You can also use other types of hand-loomed textiles or tapestries that have Southwestern motifs.
- Distressed wood furniture. Choose furniture pieces that have a rustic and weathered look. You can use pine wood or reclaimed wood for your tables, chairs, cabinets, or shelves. You can also add some metal accents or hardware for some shine and contrast.
- Nature elements. Bring some life and freshness to your home with nature elements from the desert. You can use cacti, succulents, or other plants that are easy to care for. You can also use animal prints or hides for your rugs or pillows.
Southwestern style is a way to celebrate the beauty and diversity of the desert region and its cultures. It can make your home feel cozy, inviting, and unique.
