HOME // South by Southwest

Traditional Southwest decor can make a strong statement. There's usually turquoise, Kokopelli, and warm wood tones involved. What about the room that calls for desert touches without the kitschier additions?

We wanted to find out how to inject Southwest inspiration in ways that don't overwhelm a room. We did a little research and noticed a few design choices made that softens intricately patterned rugs and darker wood. Posts from Apartment Therapy and Design*Sponge offered ideas to cool the effects of richer shades.

Wanna give it a try? First off, try it in a room with lots of natural light to ensure the room doesn't get stuffy. Use a swatch of white (like a white, fuzzy rug) and toss over a chair or use as a rug. Broad, leafy greens paired with succulents lend livelier color in a tropical way, as do mirrors and gold accents. As with anything, moderation is key. A few meaningful touches - a ceramic statement piece or carved wood cabinet - speak for themselves.

// Ralph Lauren Nailhead Club Chair //

// Pendleton Eagle Saddle Blanket //

// Desert Moon Painting by Stella Maria Baer //