Although southwestern can often be confused with bohemian these days, it’s worth noting that this is a separate entity. Many different styles take bits and pieces from this style without actually crossing the line into the real world of southwestern interiors. We’re going to explore what makes this style unique and give you a few pointers on how to incorporate it into your mobile home.
#1 Warm up your color palette
Warm colors are going to be your best friends. Even if you’re leaning toward a minimalist approach complete with sparkling white walls and open floor plans, warm colors are still important. Do a color-palette search on Pinterest. You’ll come up with colors like burnt umber, mustard, sandy orange, and dark brown. But that’s not all. You’ll also notice plenty of black incorporated in the southwestern design. This room proves that black is great on a feature wall. It may be an exception to the warm colors rule, but we think it balances out those wood tones, yellows, and oranges. Uniquely, black can actually be the color that brings your room to life (and how many interior designs can boast that?).
#2 Be creative with flooring
Hardwood is still one of the best choices you can make for your mobile home. But even if it’s just in the kitchen or bathroom, think about adding interesting flooring. Stenciled tile, concrete, vintage tile, or herringbone patterns can give your home the “oomph” it’s been needing. And if you’re the adventurous type, putting terra cotta tile in the living room…well, it might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but it sure makes a statement.
#3 Fall in love with geometric patterns
We’re willing to bet you’ll end up going heavy on the geometric patterns, because what’s not to love? Southwestern rugs are a classic, and southwestern pillows are all the rage right now. Other ways to incorporate bold southwestern patterns are wall art, curtains, herringbone flooring, and backsplashes. Whether you do a subtle, two-toned rug or a plethora of bright pillows, remember that patterns are one of the most important elements in a southwestern home.
#4 Bring the southwest into the nursery
That’s right, decorating a baby nursery southwestern style is more popular than you might think. Even if you aren’t a fan of overly-southwestern vibes in the rest of the house, who could resist going all-out in the nursery? A quick Google search will bring up many adorable variations. This is where you can have fun with the whimsical side of southwestern design. Wall murals are a common thread, as are animal themes and air-cleaning plants. Go for a subtler mix of colors here. High-contrast black and white is always attractive to an infant. Or you might even consider using warm pastels.
#5 Add custom architectural details
We’ll let you in on a little secret: it’s almost like mobile homes were made for southwestern design schemes. Mobile homes are often accused of being “boxy,” but southwestern style is where you get to embrace that whole-heartedly. Southwestern architecture, especially the modern version, is all about straight, clean lines.
However, there are ways to add architectural dimension on the inside too. Arched doorways, casement windows, colorful paneled doors, rattan blinds, and stuccoed fireplaces are just a few of the options you have. Beamed ceiling and skylights are also great ways to add some charm.
#6 Collect unique pieces
What makes or breaks a design scheme is how much of your own individual style goes into it. And your style is mainly made up of all the random decor pieces you’ve brought home over the years. Keep an eye out for furniture and decor that complements your design and add a little bit of surprise. Don’t buy all of your decor at one store. Your eclectic, southwestern style will benefit from trips to antique stores, thrift stores, and the occasional purchase from Target. Southwestern staples include:
- Succulents and cactus plants
- Leather
- Animal skins
- ’70s poufs
- Macrame, rattan, and wood pieces
- Mosaics
A trend that will last
Southwestern interior design isn’t going anywhere. The way it’s implemented may vary from decade to decade, but its roots will always be the same. As long as desert sunsets and adventure-loving people survive, so will southwestern design. Check out a similar article: how to get a cohesive boho look in your mobile home.
About EZ Homes Design Team
