Southwestern Decor
by Giorgina Devereaux
Southwestern decor and furniture, also known as Southwest
decor, echo serenity
and simplicity.
This decor can be Traditional or
Contemporary and is
characterized by the use of natural materials and colors reminiscent of
the desert, canyons, and expansive Southwestern skies.
Textiles that
are patterned and woven, along with clay pottery, reflect the cultures
of American Indians and Mexicans.The
shades of color used in
Southwestern decor make the rooms inviting.
The colors used in this
type of décor can vary from a rich cactus green, yellow, turquoise, or
the striking purple colors seen in a sunset.
One
of the classic textiles used in Southwestern decor is a hand-woven and
multicolored Mexican serape.
 The serape is often used as a blanket or a
throw and brings texture to a room because the patterns add interest.
Other textiles used contain stripes or a geometric pattern and are used
to make throw rugs and to upholster furniture.
Although some patterns
may stand out too much on a sofa, the use of a neutral color with
patterned pillows presents a balance.
The beauty about
this style is that the materials used are influenced by nature.
The
furniture is normally made with wood, such as knotty pine, and split or
distressed logs can be utilized to provide extra seating in a room or
placed on a wall as a rustic fireplace mantle.
 Other
materials used for upholstery, rugs, or other accessories are leather,
suede, cotton, or wool.
Accessories such as wall sconces and lamps made
of wrought iron are typically used and enhance the home.
The hanging of
colorful rugs on walls adds vividness to a room.
Also, hand painted
tiles and pottery are commonly used, as well as Gecko lizards and Kokopelli that serve as motifs on rugs, wallpaper, and bedding.
The incorporation of plants, such as Cacti, adds life to a
room and they come in various sizes, shapes, and colors. Nature type items make
great accessories. For instance, tall grass can be placed in a large glass vase
to accentuate a coffee table or end table.
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