What Is Southwestern Style?

Known for its earthy color palettes and rustic accents, Southwestern design has become incredibly popular in the home decor and design world. Pulling influence from Indigenous history, culture, and textile craft; Spanish settlers' building methods; and the rustic charm of the "wild" American West, Southwestern style has a much longer and far more varied history than you might think.

The History of Southwestern Style

The origin of Southwestern design comes from three major influences, including the Navajo, Spanish settlers, and the American West. Indigenous peoples crafted items from textiles to pottery and woven blankets, while Spanish and American settlers used local materials and utilitarian items that still have lasting impacts on Southwestern style in modern times.

1. Indigenous Peoples: Long before any settlers arrived in the American Southwest, the region was inhabited by Indigenous tribes—particularly, the Navajo. The Navajo have an incredibly long history of producing beautiful, vibrant, woven blankets and textiles, handmade pottery, woven baskets, and other personal goods, like turquoise jewelry and leather items. Today, you can still see much of the Navajo influence in Southwestern style. If you choose to decorate with Navajo-inspired home accents, opt to purchase your goods directly from Navajo craftsmen and women, or those residing in the Navajo Nation. Not only will it directly support a local artisan, but also it'll boost the local economy.
2. Spanish settlers: Spanish settlers were some of the first to arrive in the Southwestern United States. Because the Southwest has a climate similar to Spain, many settlers used traditional building techniques to build their new homesteads. Using the materials available in the region, like adobe (for the walls) and red clay (for roof tiles), these settlers propagated their building style across the region. Some key elements of Spanish Colonial style include thick, white stucco walls, red clay roof tiles, wooden beams and accents, and earthy color palettes.
3. The American West: The iconic "wild west" is also a major influence in today's Southwestern home decor. Because many American settlers arrived in the hot, harsh terrain with very little, they had to make do with what was available to them. Items that were once considered utilitarian—like cowhide rugs, rustic design, wooden furniture, and hammered metal accents—are now key elements in Southwestern style.

Elements of Southwestern Style

When it comes to decorating your home, you should always use your own personal touch and incorporate furniture, accents, and decor that suit your family's lifestyle. There are, however, some key elements to Southwestern style, if you really want to nail the rustic, earthy look:

Simple White Walls

Like traditional Spanish architecture, stick to white walls. A simple backdrop will showcase any vibrant weavings, earthy-colored accents, or wood pieces in your home. Plus, white walls can brighten a darker space.

Earthy Color Palettes

Terracotta, brown, and turquoise are colors you'll commonly see in Southwestern decor, and for good reason: They mimic the surrounding desert environment and pay homage to the materials Indigenous tribes and settlers had available to them. Feel free to punctuate an earthier color palette with more vibrant accents, like woven textiles (rugs, pillows, and blankets), and brass or copper planters or mirrors.

Layered Textures

Layering different textures can give your home depth and dimension. Try pairing a vibrant woven rug with leather upholstered furniture, cowhide or sheep fur pillows, and a sturdy wooden coffee table or side table.

Ceramic Tiles in Southwestern Design

Ceramic and clay tile is used extensively in Southwestern design for both floors and walls. Tiles are popular because they are cool to the touch in hot weather and retain heat in cold weather. Saltillo tile, also known as terracotta, is a very popular staple in Southwestern design thanks to its warm colors.

Common Patterns

Southwestern style incorporates simple or complex repetitive geometric shapes into woven textiles and tiles. It's common to mix and match and layer pillows, rugs, wall art, and upholstery of different geometric patterns, such as diamonds and arrows, in rustic colors.

Vintage Pieces

Vintage and rustic decor, such as distressed wooden and painted furniture and distressed leather, are commonly found in Southwestern interiors. Traditional Southwestern artwork includes vintage Navajo and Pueblo tapestries, pottery, and paintings.

• Wooden furniture. Once utilitarian, wooden furniture and accents can give your home an authentic rustic vibe. You'll often see wooden ceiling beams in Southwestern homes—because, traditionally, adobe homes aren't finished with trim, so the beams support the walls and ceilings—as well as heavy, wooden tables, chairs, and dressers. Don't be afraid to mix wood finishes either—it'll just add another layer of dimension to your space.

• Natural accents. If a longhorn skull isn't your thing—although, we have to say, they look amazing over a fireplace, bed, or desk—accent your space with other natural elements. Cacti are easy to care for, while geodes can add a pop of color and whimsy to a room.
• Hammered metals. Utilitarian hammered metal light fixtures and accents are commonly found in Southwestern homes. Use different finishes, like aged bronze, copper, or brass for extra color and texture.

Modern Southwestern Style

Aspects of Southwestern style have been incorporated into modern designs through furniture, accents, or mixing different design styles. Bring touches of Southwestern style into your own space by layering jute rugs, woven textiles, baskets, and blankets by Navajo and other Indigenous artisans and vendors.

When it comes to Southwestern decor, don't be afraid to experiment to create Southwestern garden spaces, as well. Bring in design elements like native cactuses and yuccas accented with adobe-mud walls for that distinctive Southwestern character.