Southwest Style Decor

Colors and Textures

• When choosing colors for a southwest style home, look for inspiration in the color palette of the desert. The sand may inspire you with tones of red, yellow and orange. Add a vibrant touch to your home with shades of blue and green. For a more contemporary look, opt for off-white walls with wood and stone finishes. Use tan and brown shades for flooring, artwork or rugs and black for lamps, fireplace screens and wine racks. Add more texture to a room with Native-American inspired blankets and wraps.

Walls and Floors

• Painting the walls in bright colors is a characteristic of the Southwest style décor. Choose from yellow, red or green shades for an authentic Southwest look. If you think this is too vibrant, paint just one in a bright color, and choose neutral tones for the rest. Opt for subtle faux stucco on the walls for an aged finish. For floors, select traditional terracotta tiles, and layer them with woven colored rugs.

Furniture

• Carved wood furniture is specific to Southwestern decor. Add wooden ceiling beams for an authentic Mexican touch. Some pieces of furniture you may consider include wood end tables, coffee tables, dining room sets and dressers with dark iron elements. If you prefer a pronounced rustic look, opt for chip-carved pieces with a rough finish. For upholstery, select neutral colors or Navajo patterns, depending on the colors of the room.

Accessories

• Southwestern decorating accessories incorporate natural elements such as wood, metal and stone. Specific accessories are rustic lanterns, wildlife silhouettes, woven baskets, wooden hand-painted figurines and cacti in terracotta pots. For an ethnic touch, choose Native American artifacts, such as head dresses, wood carvings, colorful pottery and dreamcatchers.