Decorating Ideas for Sante Fe

Colors

• The local landscape influences the colors used in a Santa Fe style home. Turquoise blue, often used on exterior doors and as an accent color, reflects the sky. The red shades come from the iron-oxidized soil and chili peppers, while bright oranges and yellows mirror the amazing sunsets and desert plants of the Southwest. Brown, beige, gray and sage green shades found in the desert provide soft neutrals.

Furniture

• Santa Fe style furniture gets its distinct look from Native American, Spanish and Mexican influences. Large, rustic, wooden pieces, such as dining tables, armoires, chests, benches and dressers, tend to be carved, painted and distressed. Antique country furniture mixes well with traditional Sante Fe style furniture.

Textiles

• Textiles used in Santa Fe decor also reflect the land and its people. Native American rugs, blankets and motifs grace many homes. Upholstery coverings come from natural materials such as leather, suede and wool. A mix of print and solid fabrics will balance a room and keep it from looking too busy.

Accessories

• Accents and accessories bring in bursts of color and texture to a Santa Fe style room. Native American objects -- pottery, sand paintings, kachina dolls -- reflect the desert and its people. Wrought iron, a Spanish design element, can be found on lamps, hardware and furniture. Natural elements from cactus and succulents to bleached cow skulls and slate bring the outdoors inside.