Native American House Decorating

Color Palette

• When decorating your home in a Native American style, an authentic color palette is crucial. Because nature plays such a significant role in Native American culture, shades that are reminiscent of the earth and sky are central to the décor. Warm earth tones and neutrals like brown, tan and beige are ideal wall colors for a room decorated in Native American style. If you prefer cooler tones, gray and sage green are attractive alternatives. For pops of color, incorporate bright red, orange and yellow to represent the sky during sunset and colorful flowers. Blue is also ideal for a Native American decorating scheme. Shades of cobalt and sky are attractive, but turquoise is the most classic shade associated with Native American décor. It provides a cool contrast to warmer tones that you might use for the walls and flooring and gives your home an authentic look.

Architectural Details

• Native American décor has a rustic, natural feel, so it usually includes architectural details that provide a cabin-like appearance. Beamed ceilings are ideal for this style. If you are building a new home, you can incorporate heavy structural beams to the ceiling for a truly rugged look. However, in an existing home, nonfunctional log beams with a rough-hewn appearance are an attractive alternative. You can use several large beams for a simple look, or combine larger logs with smaller poles to create a more complex design. If you are interested in a Southwest Native American look, halo arched windows are an ideal addition to your room. Add interior shutters made of unfinished wood to contribute to the rustic look.

Natural Materials

• When designing a Native American style room, include as many natural elements as possible. Wood provides a warm, rustic feel and is an ideal option for the flooring. You can also add wood paneling to the walls for a rustic, cabin-like feel, and choose large, heavy furniture made of rough-hewn wood to complete the look. If your room features a fireplace, a stone surround adds an attractive, natural element to the room. Clay tile is another option for the fireplace surround or floor. In addition, add wrought iron accents throughout the space with furniture, lamps and railing. Leather furniture and faux animal skin rugs also work with the Native American style.

Accessories

• When finding accessories for a Native American style room, there are a variety of options to consider. Handmade pottery with a rustic finish is ideal for display on a mantel or bookshelf. Colorful Navajo rugs can help brighten up a room and may even be used as a wall hanging. Skull or animal bones also add an authentic touch when displayed on the wall. For a whimsical look, add a dreamcatcher to your wall as well.