Decorating Southwestern Style

Here's a look at the design details that make up Southwestern style.

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Generally characterized by earthtone colors, rough textures, handcrafted objects, brightly-colored woven fabrics, an abundance of terra cotta and clay tile roofs.

Colors - This room showcases a traditional palette of cactus green, adobe red and desert-toned neutral hues. Shots of bright yellow, dusty orange and turquoise are also indicative of a southwestern design.

Textiles - Sturdy woven fabrics, leather and suede are used for upholstery; striped serapes (colorful wool shawls) can be used as pure decoration on walls.

Furniture - Leather is a common covering for sofas and chairs. Knotty pine is a popular choice for wood furniture, which may also feature a distressed finish embellished with burnished metal accents.

Accents - Talavera pottery, painted ceramic pieces with roots in 16th-century Mexico, adds color and design interest to a desert home. Handpainted tiles are used on walls, floors and countertops. Wrought-iron is used for all types of accessories.