I remember the first time I walked into a home designed with a modern Mexican aesthetic.
It was during a trip to San Miguel de Allende, a dreamy little town filled with vibrant colors and rich culture.
A friend had invited me over for dinner, and as soon as I stepped inside her house, I was struck by how effortlessly the space blended tradition with contemporary design.
The warm, earthy tones, the intricate tiles, the handmade pottery—it all felt so alive and authentic, yet sleek and modern.
I couldn’t stop marveling at how every corner seemed to tell a story while remaining stylish and comfortable.
That night, I decided I needed to bring a little bit of that magic into my own home:
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Vibrant Accent Walls
One of the easiest ways to add a modern Mexican vibe to your home is by incorporating vibrant accent walls.
Mexican homes are known for their bold use of colors like terracotta, cobalt blue, sunflower yellow, and deep magenta.
You don’t need to paint an entire room—just pick one wall and make it pop.
This could be in your living room, dining area, or even your bedroom.
If you prefer a more subdued style, you can opt for muted shades of these colors to keep it modern yet vibrant.
Pair your accent wall with neutral furniture and decor to balance the look.
For example, a cobalt blue wall would look stunning with white or beige furniture and some natural wood tones.
To make it even more authentic, consider adding a textured finish, like a faux stucco or plaster effect.
This creates depth and pays homage to traditional Mexican craftsmanship.
You can also use stencils or decals inspired by Mexican patterns, like geometric shapes or floral designs, to give your wall a unique touch.
The key is to keep the rest of the room simple, letting the accent wall become the centerpiece.
Hand-Painted Tiles
Hand-painted tiles are a hallmark of Mexican design, and they can instantly elevate any space in your home.
You can use them in your kitchen as a backsplash, in your bathroom as shower tiles, or even on stair risers for a unique touch.
These tiles come in an array of patterns and colors, from intricate floral designs to bold geometric shapes.
They add a layer of artistry to your space that feels both traditional and fresh.
For a modern twist, try mixing solid-colored tiles with patterned ones.
For example, you could alternate between plain white tiles and brightly colored Mexican tiles for a chic yet playful look.
If you’re not ready to commit to a large area, start small.
You could use a handful of hand-painted tiles as coasters, trivets, or even framed wall art.
The beauty of these tiles lies in their imperfection, as each one is unique and has its own character.
They pair beautifully with natural materials like wood, stone, and metal, making them a versatile choice for a modern home.
Woven Textiles and Rugs
Nothing says cozy and cultural like authentic Mexican textiles.
Incorporating woven blankets, pillows, or rugs into your space is an easy way to add warmth and texture.
Look for pieces made from natural fibers like wool or cotton, often dyed with vibrant, earthy colors.
You can drape a traditional Mexican blanket, or serape, over a sofa or the foot of your bed.
Throw pillows with bold patterns and tassels can add a playful touch to your living room.
When it comes to rugs, go for large woven pieces with intricate patterns to anchor a room.
These textiles often feature geometric designs or symbols that have been passed down through generations, making them a meaningful addition to your home.
You can even frame smaller pieces of fabric to use as wall art.
These elements not only add visual interest but also tell a story about craftsmanship and heritage.
Natural Materials
Modern Mexican design embraces natural materials like wood, stone, and clay.
You’ll often find furniture made from raw or lightly finished wood, which adds warmth and an organic feel to a room.
Stone, whether in the form of flooring, countertops, or decorative accents, brings a sense of permanence and timelessness.
Clay pots and vases are another staple, perfect for holding plants or standing alone as sculptural pieces.
Wicker and rattan furniture can also work beautifully in this style, especially when paired with colorful cushions or throws.
The key is to mix and match these materials to create a layered, textured look.
For instance, you might pair a wooden dining table with woven chairs and a stone centerpiece.
Natural materials not only look stunning but are also durable and eco-friendly, making them a smart choice for any home.
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Indoor-Outdoor Living
Mexican homes are all about blending indoor and outdoor spaces seamlessly.
This can be as simple as adding large windows or sliding glass doors to let in natural light and connect your interior to the outside.
Consider creating a patio or courtyard area with traditional Mexican elements like a tiled fountain, terracotta pots, or a pergola draped in bougainvillea.
You can also bring the outdoors in by incorporating plenty of plants, from cacti and succulents to lush tropical greenery.
This connection to nature adds a sense of tranquility and makes your space feel larger and more open.
Paint an Accent Wall in a Vibrant Hue
One of the easiest ways to add instant Mexican style is by painting one wall in a bold, saturated color.
The vibrant wall will make a dynamic statement and bring energy into your space.
Choose a shade like coral, turquoise, fuchsia, lime green, or canary yellow to evoke the vivid hues found in Mexican culture.
When selecting your accent wall color, it helps to consider the purpose of the room.
For dining spaces and kitchens, paint a wall in a mouthwatering hue like hot pink, orange, or lime to stimulate the appetite.
In living areas and bedrooms, opt for a soothing tone like sky blue to promote relaxation.
If you’re feeling brave, consider using two complementary colors like orange and blue for a color-blocked wall.
This eye-catching look pairs well with neutral walls, floors, and furniture.
For a focal point, paint the wall behind a credenza, bed, or sofa in the vibrant shades.
Remember to choose a high-quality paint with a semi-gloss or high-gloss finish, as these will best reflect the light and allow the juicy color to pop.
Matte finishes can make bold hues appear dull.
Prime the wall first for the most even application.
Use painter’s tape to create clean edges where the accent wall meets adjoining walls.
Apply two coats of paint, allowing proper drying time between coats.
Remove the tape promptly after the final coat dries to prevent peeling.
When decorating the rest of the room, opt for neutral furniture, bedding, or rugs so as not to compete with the fierce accent wall.
Keep other accessories minimal for a streamlined look.
Allow the vibrant wall color to take center stage.
For the biggest visual impact, choose a relatively simple wall without too many windows or doors.
The solid expanse of bold color will make the largest splash.
Avoid using dark colors in a room with little natural light, as this can make the space feel closed in.
The saturated shade you choose should match the room’s purpose and mood.
Painting an accent wall in a vivid Mexican-inspired hue is an easy, budget-friendly refresh.
It allows you to add spicy personality without the commitment of painting an entire room.
Hang Vibrant Textiles for Pops of Pattern
Gorgeous textiles in eye-catching patterns are a signature of Mexican décor.
Using vibrant fabrics is a beautiful way to bring warmth, texture, and a sense of handmade artistry into your home.
Consider hanging woven blankets, embroidered tapestries, or colorful quilts for pops of pattern.
Displaying textiles is one of the most authentic ways to add Mexican flair.
Many traditional fabrics are crafted by local artisans using techniques passed down through generations.
Seek out special pieces like the Saltillo serape, a fringed shawl woven in earthy stripes; the ornate Tree of Life tapestry depicting a symbolic motif; or a handmade Oaxacan animal rug made of lush dyed wool.
Sources to find quality Mexican textiles include local markets and craft fairs, fair trade shops, online retailers that work directly with artists, and vacation souvenirs.
Look for rugs, table runners, pillows, blankets, and wall hangings to find your perfect piece.
Shop around until you discover a fabric you love, as textiles are very personal.
When you bring your textile home, decide on the best placement to show it off.
Try hanging it above the sofa, draped over a chair, displayed on a wall, or even used as a tablecloth.
Measure the size of your space to purchase a piece that fits well.
Add rods or hooks to hang the fabric securely.
For a casual boho look, hang textiles loosely and asymmetrically.
Drape contrasting textures and patterns together for an eclectic vibe.
For a sleek modern feel, hang the fabric taut in a sleek frame.
Keep the surroundings minimalist to let the textile be the focus.
If hanging on the wall, place the textile around eye level so the details can be appreciated.
Angle it over a sofa or bed so it is prominently in view.
Illuminate with a nearby lamp to highlight the rich colors and intricate patterns.
The light will make the fabric pop.
Layer smaller textiles like runners and pillows on top of larger ones like blankets for a multidimensional look.
Roll up a corner or fold over a section of the fabric to add dimension.
Complimentary solid textured pillows can accent the patterns nicely.
Aim for an odd number of wall hangings grouped together for the most pleasing arrangement.
This creates visual interest and movement.
Mix different sizes and shapes for variety.
Keeping the textiles’ colors and patterns within the same tonal palette will make the grouping cohesive.
Handcrafted Mexican textiles bring culture, comfort, and visual intrigue effortlessly into modern interiors.
Their tales of local traditions and vibrant beauty simply can’t be replicated.
Display them prominently and let them infuse your home with artistry.
Select Rustic Furniture for Authenticity
To channel the real Mexican vibe, infuse rustic furniture into your space.
Handcrafted wood furniture adds authenticity and character with natural, unfinished touches.
The low-maintenance, imperfect pieces feel relaxed and casual.
Rustic designs seamlessly blend with other Mexican décor for an earthy, organic look.
When selecting rustic wood furniture, look for authentic artifacts crafted locally if possible.
Mexican artisans are masters at hand carving beautiful, functional pieces from native woods like pine, cypress, oak, cedar, and sapodilla.
Salvaged wood is also frequently repurposed into charming tables, cabinets, shelving and chairs.
Some types of Mexican country wood furniture to look for include:
– Rough-hewn dining tables with an organic tree-trunk base and hand-carved legs.
An unfinished pine tabletop keeps it casual and unfussy.
Add low-sitting handmade benches for a family-style look.
– Sideboards crafted from old barnwood or salvaged doors for storage and display.
The aged, weathered patina adds character.
– Hand-carved cedar or cypress bookshelves full of rustic personality.
Built-in options make great use of small spaces.
– Low, oversized coffee tables made from a whole tree cross-section for a natural look.
– Hammock chairs made from rope, hanging from the ceiling for indoor/outdoor lounging and extra seating.
– Colorfully painted pine chairs, cabinets, and mirrors for a folk art feel.
Look for traditional motifs like flowers or birds.
Part of achieving an authentic rustic look is keeping the furniture unfinished.
Embrace the natural distressing that develops on country woods like nicks, cracks, and knots.
The imperfections give the furniture character and history.
Skip the polyurethane for a low-maintenance matte look.
Place rustic furniture thoughtfully to accent modern elements, like sleek leather seating or industrial metals.
The blend of refined and rough adds depth.
Rustic pieces work especially well in minimalist settings to add organic warmth.
To make weathered finds work in your home, look for solid wood construction without rot or pests.
Sand lightly and apply a light stain if you want to enrich the color.
Add felt pads to the feet to protect floors.
By featuring handcrafted rustic furniture with an honest legacy, you can create an interior rich with authentic Mexican flavor.
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Craft an Inviting Nook with Hanging Chairs
Transform an empty corner or bare wall into a cozy relaxing nook with a hanging chair.
Their airy, suspended design instantly conjures laid-back Mexican vibes.
You’ll feel like you’re swaying in a sunny cabana.
Hanging chairs are also perfect for small spaces since they don’t take up valuable floor area.
The ideal hanging chair has a bamboo or rattan stand and a canvas, cloth, or rope seat.
Look for an eco-friendly design made with sustainable materials – these will be high quality as well as good for the planet.
Select a chair sized proportionately for your space that hangs at a comfortable height.
Before installing, choose the perfect spot to suspend your hanging chair.
Place it somewhere with a tranquil view to maximize relaxation.
Near a window is ideal to take advantage of breezes and natural light.
Or try hanging it in an open corner to define the space.
Just ensure the ceiling is sturdy enough to support the weight.
Mark the ceiling where you’d like the chair hung.
Use heavy duty hooks and chains so you can hang freely without worry.
Attach to a ceiling beam or stud for the most security.
Test the strength before sitting in the chair.
The seat should hang about 16-19″ off the ground.
Create a cocooning effect around the nook with curtains or a small rug underneath.
Add a plush pillow and blanket to the chair for extra coziness.
A floor lamp or sconce positioned nearby provides a warm glow.
Place a side table within arm’s reach to hold snacks, drinks and a remote.
For more privacy, hang the nook chair behind an inviting curtain or screen.
This defines the space while allowing light to filter in from your chosen view.
Add a comfy cushion to the chair along with art, plants, and antlers overhead for a secluded hideaway.
Or make the chair a centerpiece in an open den or lounge, surrounded by Mexican patterned pillows and ceramics.
Compose a vignette with a leather pouf, woven basket, and guitar resting alongside.
The creative possibilities are endless!
Set up the nook near the patio, yard, or balcony and roll the chair outside on nice days.
Swaying in the sunshine with nature all around evokes a sanctuary-like stillness.
Remember a nook should be a tech-free zone for full relaxation.
Ditch devices so you can meditate, daydream, or catch up on a good book.
A hanging chair nook promotes emotional renewal – make it a sacred space.
As a finishing touch for your Mexican-inspired hanging chair nook, add string lights overhead to create a warm glow at night.
Their soft illumination lets you unwind before bed.
So retreat to your new secret escape and let your worries drift away!
Display Colorful Talavera Pottery and Ceramics
Talavera pottery is a vibrant signature of authentic Mexican décor.
The colorful handmade ceramics are painted in intricate patterns using a special technique brought over by Spanish settlers in the 1600s.
Adding a few Talavera pieces is a foolproof way to infuse eye-catching Mexican flair.
Talavera pottery is still made by skilled artisans using a complex production process.
Clay indigenous to certain Mexican regions is combined with a tin-based glaze to produce the coveted look.
After molding and painting, the pieces undergo multiple firings at specific temperatures to harden and set the vibrant colors.
True, certified Talavera originates from designated workshops in Puebla and other historic districts.
It has a distinct balance of quality, craftsmanship, and color.
When shopping, look for the official Talavera trademark to identify authentic pieces.
Quality glazed ceramics made in other regions of Mexico also make beautiful, budget-friendly options.
Talavera patterns tend to use bold colors like cobalt blue, black, yellow, green, and terra cotta red.
Common motifs include flowers, birds, landscapes, geometric designs, and the Mexican folk art theme Tree of Life.
Vibrant pieces instantly enliven any space.
There are so many ways to decorate with these lively ceramics:
– Hang painted Talavera tiles or plates for quick pops of pattern.
Group them gallery-style or in fun shapes like sunbursts.
– Display serving platters, vases, pitchers, and cups on open shelves.
The see-through cabinets let the colors shine.
– Use Talavera pots, plant holders, and planters to hold greenery.
The contrasting colors and textures are striking.
– Place candles, kitchen utensils, and wildflowers in brightly painted Talavera containers.
– Use tile to make a Talavera sink or backsplash as an eye-catching focal point.
– Line walkways with handmade Talavera tiles for ornamental garden paths with cultural style.
– Accent tables or benches with a colorful Talavera tile inset on top for ornamentation.
For the most authentic look, surround Talavera with other elements of Mexican design like wrought iron, stained wood, and handmade textiles.
The crafts beautifully complement each other.
Proudly display special travel pieces like cups etched with destinations.
The vibrant hues and artisanal legacy of Talavera pottery make an unforgettable statement.
Infuse Warmth with Rustic Beams and Wood Trim
Exposed wooden beams are a charming way to add rustic Mexican flair inside your home.
Wood trim and accents also warm up contemporary spaces in an organic way.
The natural beauty and authenticity of wood never goes out of style.
Exposed beams instantly provide architectural interest while also creating a cozy lodge-like feel.
They work in many interior styles, from modern to farmhouse.
Wood trim beautifully complements more sleek finishes like concrete floors, stainless steel, or glass.
Some ideas for infusing wood beams and trim:
– Install beams across the ceiling, either in select areas or throughout the entire space.
This adds texture and definition.
Use beams made of fragrant cedar or pine for aesthetic and air purifying benefits.
– Incorporate reclaimed parota or mesquite wood beams with an aged patina that tells the wood’s natural story.
New wood can also be hand distressed.
– Highlight beams with surrounding white ceilings and walls to make them stand out.
Or paint beams a bold shade as contrast.
– Accent vaulted ceilings with a grid of prominent dark wood beams.
This lends height and drama while grounding the space.
– Frame openings like doorways, windows, niches, and mirrors with substantial wood trim and beams for accent.
Consider crafting built-in storage or bookshelves from warm wood as well.
– Panel one wall completely in unfinished pine boards or tongue-in-groove planks.
This robust wall treatment becomes the commanding focal point.
– Line the wall behind a wood-burning fireplace with parota wood planks.
The rich textures complement each other beautifully.
– In dining areas, line the walls with vertical wood planks.
Hang colorful textiles like serapes in between to accentuate the wood grain.
– For bedrooms, use wood nightstands, headboards, bed frames and ceiling beams to establish an organic feel.
Wood instantly softens and warms a sleeping space.
– Incorporate an oversized hand-carved console, buffet table, or shelving unit made from a single cut of thick wood slab.
This makes a substantial style statement.
– Accent windows and glass garden doors with extra wide wood trim boards.
Consider framing the outside as well for indoor/outdoor cohesion.
Take care to seal, wax or oil unfinished wood occasionally to enrich and protect the natural material over time.
Periodic dusting keeps beams looking their best.
The warmth, intricacy, and heritage of wood never loses its welcoming appeal.
Whether left raw and rugged or sanded smooth, rustic wood accents infuse instant Mexican character.
Display Vibrant Folk Art and Artefacts
One of the most enjoyable ways to infuse Mexican flair is by decorating with folk art and handmade artefacts.
Displaying special pieces creates a soulful, handcrafted look.
Two major forms of Mexican folk art to display are:
Alebrijes – Whimsical carved creatures and figurines traditionally crafted from the twisted copal wood of the Oaxacan region.
Their origins trace back to artist Pedro Linares in the 1930s.
Each piece is unique and highly symbolic.
Día de los Muertos – Panoramic sculptures, figurines, masks, and pottery themed around the iconic Mexican holiday honoring deceased loved ones.
Intricate skeleton representations depict scenes of celebrating life and death.
Beyond these, examples of other Mexican folk art forms to consider include:
– Amate Paintings – Indigenous bark paper transformed into vibrant paintings of cultural scenes.
– Tin Crafts – Hand punched ornate tin mirrors, votive holders, light fixtures, and ornaments.
– Lacquered Gourds – Colorfully painted natural dried gourds carved into bowls, vases, drums.
– Wood Carvings – Figurines, masks, religious icons, animals, and furniture hand carved from native woods.
– Textiles – Symbolic embroidered clothing, bags, pillows, and wall hangings made using traditional techniques.
– Beaded Art – Elaborately beaded jaguar heads, cross stitching, jewelry, and skulls created using glass seed beads.
– Clay Pottery – Unglazed ceramic pots, vases, pitchers, tiles, figurines and cooking ware.
When decorating with these special folk art pieces, consider displaying them in these creative ways:
– Group colorful handmade masks together on a wall in a geometric arrangement based on shape and texture.
– Place a carved Catrina figurine on an accent table or bookshelf surrounded by marigolds and candles to create an ofrenda vignette.
– Hang ornately detailed crosses, nichos, and santos on the wall in a vignette to celebrate family customs.
– Display wooden animal carvings and beaded skulls on raw wood shelving along with lush houseplants and baskets.
– Arrange lacquered gourd bowls on open shelves, filled with oranges, onions, garlic, and chiles.
Allow them to become part of the kitchen décor when not in use.
– Showcase hand woven textiles by framing them in shadow boxes or under glass atop coffee tables.
The heritage and artistry of Mexican folk art deserve prominent display in any home.
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Illuminate with Wrought Iron Lighting Fixtures
Another way to infuse instant Mexican character is by installing wrought iron lighting fixtures.
The hand-forged iron designs exude old-world artistry and charm.
Mexican ironwork dates back over 500 years, with patterns inspired by Spanish, French, and Mediterranean influences.
The durable metal craftsmanship adds authenticity along with ambient lighting.
From ornate chandeliers to decorative sconces, wrought iron lighting options abound.
Iron is hand-worked and shaped into beautiful filigree patterns, often accented with candle inspired designs.
Forged iron lighting brings drama while remaining surprisingly affordable.
Here are some ways to creatively illuminate with wrought iron fixtures:
Entryway Lanterns – Welcome guests with an oversized iron lantern outside your door.
Choose a tall pillar style or select one with scrollwork.
Place matching lanterns along a front walkway to lead the way.
Statement Chandelier – Make a bold style move with an elaborate cascading iron chandelier as the focal point over your dining table or kitchen island.
Choose a dramatic antique style with curved arms, dangling crystals, and candelabra bulbs.
Dimmer lighting lets you set the perfect mood.
Sconces – Line a hallway or flank a bed or sofa with matching iron sconces.
Decorative arms allow you to customize the light placement while adding aesthetic intrigue.
Candle bulb sconces add ambiance.
Bath Lighting – In baths and powder rooms, try a wrought iron mirror frame that incorporates lighting.
An iron orb light fixture adds European flair.
Accent windows with designed iron shutters that fold open to let light in.
Pendants – Hang black wrought iron pendant lights over desks, kitchen counters, or bar areas.
Go modern with simple iron orb shapes or industrial pipes.
For rustic flair, try pendants made from forged farm tools.
Outdoor Lighting – Illuminate patios, porches, and gardens after dark with iron lanterns, torches, and spotlights.
Look for waterproof, outdoor rated fixtures.
Match your indoor lighting for cohesion.
To complete the look, choose bulbs that complement the style.
Edison or candelabra bulbs work well with ornate fixtures.
Iron fixtures allow visible bulbs, so choose attractive silhouettes like curly CFLs or long tubular LEDs.
Dimming enhances ambiance.
As a final touch, look for ways to echo the metal material throughout the rest of the space, like iron door handles, table bases, or fireplace tools.
This creates a cohesive look that highlights the handcrafted appeal of iron designs.
Add Texture with Natural Jute, Sisal, Abaca
Natural fiber rugs and accents made from jute, sisal, seagrass and abaca add wonderful rustic texture perfect for Mexican style interiors.
These fibers have a casual, chunky weave that feels grounded and organic.
Natural rugs bring warmth and authenticity without competing with other bold patterns.
Jute comes from the strong jute plant native to warm regions worldwide.
It has a loosely woven burlap-like texture.
Jute rugs are incredibly durable, hypoallergenic, and biodegradable.
The natural golden brown color works with any style.
Try jute rugs in high traffic areas or use jute rug pad underneath for stability.
Sisal derives from the agave plant, with long leaves that yield strong fibers.
Sisal has a rough-hewn look with visible knots and varied shades.
It’s a great barefoot-friendly choice that conceals stains.
Use sisal rugs in casual spaces like family rooms or screening porches.
Abaca, also called Manila hemp, comes from the banana plant.
It has long fibers that create a chunky looped pile when woven.
Abaca rugs are soft underfoot and ideal for high moisture spaces like covered patios or basements.
Natural fiber rugs work beautifully on their own but also pair nicely with vivid Talavera tiles or terra cotta floors.
Their neutral texture grounds lively surroundings without competing.
In addition to floor covering, use these natural fibers in other creative ways:
– Frame a large sisal or jute rug on the wall as textured art behind a sofa.
Layer woven throws overtop.
– Cut pieces of sisal into door mats or use jute rope for stair railings.
These add natural texture throughout the home.
– Wrap pole lamp bases with abaca or jute.
Use sisal rope for macramé wall hangings.
– Cover a side table base with woven jute or sisal.
The casual texture contrasts with the tabletop.
– Make placemats from jute fabric or sisal rope.
Use round placemats on casual dining tables.
– Line woven baskets with jute fabric to conceal contents.
The neutral texture blends well.
– Replace cabinet knobs with large sisal or jute knots for organic hardware.
Since these fibers are vulnerable to moisture and mildew, avoid using them in overly humid indoor environments.
Rotate sisal or jute rugs every few months to evenly distribute wear patterns.
Vacuum regularly and spot treat stains promptly to maintain their good looks.
The welcoming rustic textures of natural jute, sisal, abaca, and seagrass infuse warmth into both traditional and modern Mexican-inspired homes.
Their subtly gorgeous look enhances any room.
Add Tropical Greenery and Succulents Galore
Lush tropical greenery and succulents are the perfect way to bring indoor-outdoor Mexican flair into any space.
Their vibrant colors and rich textures celebrate the plants found in vibrant Oaxacan courtyards, Zapotec gardens, and Yucatán haciendas.
You’ll feel transported to a warmer climate.
When decorating with Mexican tropicals, look for these dramatic varieties:
Bromeliads – Striking neotropical epiphytes like the flaming sword or pineapple plant with colorful foliage and long-lasting blooms.
Provide bright indirect light.
Philodendrons – Lush trailing varieties like Philodendron hederaceum ‘Brasil’ with vibrant chartreuse leaves.
Allow them to vine freely.
Monstera – Statement plants like Monstera deliciosa, the “Swiss cheese” plant, with huge split leaves.
Let them climb or place on pedestals.
Palms – Small palms like lady palm or bamboo palm add an exotic focal point.
Large Kentia palms create drama.
Palms cleanse air and tolerate low light.
Fiddle Leaf Figs – Sculptural broad-leafed trees with imposing height.
Place them in corners to create living architecture.
Citrus Trees – Mini lime, lemon, orange, or grapefruit trees bring the tropics indoors.
Place near windows for sun and warmth.
Succulents are another signature of Mexican landscapes.
Use them in creative ways:
– Create eclectic table centerpieces and sideboard vignettes mixing assorted succulents, air plants, and cacti.
– Plant succulents like echeveria or burro’s tail in colorful Talavera pots or hanging planters.
– Use vertical spaces by mounting staghorn ferns or air plants on wood planks.
Display tillandsia in a wreath frame.
– Accent shelves with a trailing succulent arrangement.
Let them overflow for a natural look.
– Frame succulent or cacti wall art behind plexiglass in shadow boxes.
Create an artful botanical display.
The secret to keeping Mexican tropicals and succulents thriving is providing the right care.
Do research to understand each plant’s light, water, humidity, temperature, and soil preferences.
Group those with similar needs together.
Let soil dry out between waterings, and use cacti/succulent mix amended with perlite or sand for drainage.
Give most plants a monthly feed with cacti fertilizer during growing season.
Define Spaces with Arches and Columns
Arches and columns are beautiful architectural details that add graceful Mexican style inside and outside of the home.
Arched doorways and window openings add visual intrigue while columns create rhythmic structure and definition.
This ornamentation transforms ordinary spaces.
Arched openings traced back to ancient Roman architecture are now a signature of Mexican design.
The curved shape feels welcoming and elegant.
Arches lend old-world charm and work in many styles from traditional to modern.
Consider framing doorways, niches, windows, and room dividers with elegant arches.
Semi-circular Roman arches have a full half-circle shape, while Moorish arches form a more exotic ogee curve.
repeating arches creates a stunning arcade effect along exterior walkways or interior hallways.
For authenticity, frame arched openings with hand carved wood, cut stone, or ornamental wrought iron.
Play with proportions – smaller spaces suit petite arches while grand rooms call for soaring shapes.
Paint the surrounding wall a contrasting color to make arches stand out.
Columns add vertical interest and structure on porches, patios, and inside the home.
Groupings of columns form colonnades that make impressive backdrops for fountains, staircases, or sheltered seating spaces.
Try these creative ways to incorporate columns:
– Welcome guests with stately columns flanking your home’s front entryway.
Top with decorative capitals like carved corbels.
– Line an covered outdoor living space with elegant iron, brick, or stucco columns for architectural definition.
Hang string lights in between.
– Add a portico or porte-cochère over driveway and entryways supported by classic columns for grandeur.
– Accent the exterior with stacked stone columns at corners or picturesque spots in the garden or yard.
Top with urns.
– Use iron columns to support airy gazebos, pergolas, or pavilions.
Surround with hanging greenery.
– Anchor built-in shelving or cabinets with decorative turned wood columns for detail.
Add molding at the top.
– Flank a grand fireplace with imposing columns made of stacked stone, brick, or carved wood for arresting style.
For contemporary spaces, try slender metal columns with clean lines or concrete pillars and supports.
Keep the surroundings pared back to let dramatic columns take the spotlight.
Incorporate arches and columns into fences, banisters, cabinetry, and decor for ornamental accessories.
Mexico’s rich architectural history is embodied in the ancient magisterial columns of Tula and elegant hacienda archways found throughout the countryside.
Incorporate this heritage by framing your home with graceful arches and rhythmic columns.
They lend grandeur whether inside or out.
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Use Vibrant Color on Walls, Doors and Decor
Vibrant splashes of color are a hallmark of authentic Mexican design.
The lively colors celebrate life and reflect Mexico’s festive spirit.
Paint is an affordable way to transform the look and energy of any space.
Some quintessential Mexican paint colors to consider:
Burnt Orange – A warm, earthy orange reminiscent of clay pots, sunsets and spices.
Use it to create an inviting dining room or energizing entry.
Coral – A tropical punchy pink-orange that stimulates the senses like a freshly mixed cocktail.
Perfect for making a bold living room statement.
Lime Green – A zesty vibrant green that conjures up spicy guacamole.
Energize a kitchen or bathroom with this verdant hue.
Cobalt Blue – A dramatic deep ocean blue that evokes the culture’s azure pottery.
Use it to create a soothing bedroom retreat.
Sunshine Yellow – A dazzling golden yellow that embodies Mexican sunflowers and café curtains.
Greet guests with this cheerful color on a front door.
When selecting paint colors, look deeper than surface appeal and consider the tone’s meaning.
Warm hues like orange and yellow spark creativity and joy, while cool blues relax and restore.
Choose paint with maximum color saturation for the boldest effect.
Consider colorful paint ideas like:
– Paint the front door a vivid shade to make an eye-catching first impression.
Use a coordinating color for the window trim.
– Create an energizing accent wall in a brilliant hue like orange, chartreuse, or magenta.
Contrast with crisp white on remaining walls.
– Use an intense saturated color like cobalt blue on built-in shelves and window framing for pops of color.
– Paint bedroom ceilings a soothing hue like seafoam green or sky blue.
The overhead color is calming.
– Add whimsical artistry by painting a bedroom wall mural depicting tropical birds, botanicals, or a Oaxacan landscape.
Take color outside by painting planter boxes, garden benches, gates, fence posts, or patio floors in vibrant shades.
Choose exterior grade paint.
For exteriors consider combining deep body and trim colors with patterns like stripes on stairs, latticework and balconies.
Paint echoes the energy of Mexican textiles.
Craft an Inviting Porch or Patio Oasis
Create a welcoming oasis outdoors by designing a stylish porch or patio imbued with Mexican flavor.
These alfresco living spaces allow you to enjoy balmy breezes, sunshine, and garden views in relaxed bliss.
Include cozy seating, vibrant textiles, rustic and colorful accents, and lush plants.
First, embellish the floor and architecture.
Paint porch decking a saturated tropical hue like coral, turquoise, or melon.
Stencil patterns on floors and steps.
tile patios, walkways or sections of the porch floor with colorful Talavera tiles, concrete pavers, or pebbles and rocks.
Incorporate arches, columns, and hanging lanterns.
Next, include comfortable weather-resistant seating like:
– Rocking chairs with woven seat cushions and throw pillows in bold patterns.
– Weatherproof wicker sofas or hammock chairs with removable cushions.
– Colorful Mexican blankets, serapes, and throw pillows.
– Poufs, stools, or handmade leather ottomans that can be moved into the sun or shade.
– Rustic hand carved wood benches with thick padded cushions.
Don’t overlook lighting that allows you to extend evenings outdoors:
– String lights overhead or weave them through foliage for magical twinkling ambiance.
– Sturdy wrought-iron lanterns that stand up to elements.
Use citronella candles to deter insects.
– votive candles in colorful Talavera holders on tables, steps, and in the garden.
Placing decor strategically helps create an inviting vignette:
– Locally made planters and urns planted with flowering tropicals or cascading succulents.
– Hand woven baskets holding throw blankets.
– Wrought iron garden hooks holding lanterns or birdcages.
– Traditional Mexican tin stars, sun faces, or crosses as wall art.
– A brightly patterned rug layered over the main seating area helps soften and define the space.
Lastly, add personal touches like:
– An herb garden, fruit trees or vegetable planters.
– Family photos in weatherproof frames.
– A hose basket or wheeled bar cart holding glasses and pitcher for beverages.
– Pet beds so dogs and cats can lounge nearby.
Your Mexican-inspired patio or porch should feel welcoming and reflective of what brings you joy.
Add special memories with each season.
Soon it will become a beloved oasis!
