Southwestern & Western Home Decor

Decorating For the Lazy Person

2010-01-26T10:02:00.000-08:00

Decorating is important. The environment you live in affects who you are and how you think. If you live in a cluttered, unattractive, mess of a home, your mind will tend to be disorderly and unpredictable. However by creating spaces that are beautiful, and which inspire you each day, you can foster positive qualities in yourself subconsciously.

Even if you’re lazy, there are a few very simple things you can do to vastly improve the look and feel of your home. None of these requires making drastic changes. Mostly you will be sitting and relaxing in various rooms, trying to feel how the nature of the space affects you, and trying to imagine ways to make it more beautiful to you personally.

The first trick is to find one piece of furniture that has a pattern that you really enjoy. The easiest piece to choose is a rug, but it can be a table, a sofa, or anything which is attractive and appeals to your personal tastes, and which has a variety of colors mixed in.

Then you take the various colors found in the pattern, and you fill the room with items that match those shades. You don’t have to go out on a shopping spree. Just bear those colors in mind when making purchases. The trick is that if the pattern is attractive, then it means the colors match. Therefore you can use this as a guide for the entire house. Its no thought color matching.

The simplest way to keep your home looking beautiful is to keep it organized. Clutter is by its very nature unattractive. Just maintaining a tidy atmosphere can go a long way towards helping to improve the nature of a space.

The lazy way to keep a room organized is to keep things simple. The fewer possessions you own, the less mess you have to deal with. What possessions you do own should be largely stored away in boxes, under the bed or in a closet. This allows the living space to remain clutter free, and easy to maintain.

It is better to have a simple, neat, tidy home, which is empty and devoid of character, than it is to have a messy disorganized and chaotic home, which is the result of decay and neglect.

Another trick is to use size to your advantage. It is much easier to select a few large pieces, than it is to pick and choose dozens of smaller pieces. There are certain necessities in the home. Aside from those, you can get away with having just a few focal point pieces that will give each room character. Size is of course relative, and any piece should be chosen to match the existing space comfortably, and not to overwhelm it.

After that, simple touches will go the furthest. You don’t have to worry about hunting elaborate works of art, inspiring sculptures, or exotic designs. A simple vase with a bouquet of fresh flowers can do wonders for the atmosphere of an entire room.

Simple, organic, beautiful, those are the qualities that will help you achieve an attractive home with the least amount of effort possible. Just keep things organized, and decorate with a few focal points and simple touches.

This article was written by Jim Slate on behalf of PebbleZ’s line of natural stone tables. These tables are hand crafted in the United States from real pieces of mountain born slate, limestone, marble, onyx, and travertine.

Frugal Style, Stretching Your Decorating Dollars

2009-12-02T11:56:00.000-08:00

When it comes to priorities in life, food, shelter, and clothing are going to come at the top of the list. Interior decorating usually has to come in somewhere further down the line. However just because you don’t have a fortune doesn’t mean you can’t have a home that looks fabulous. The following frugal decorating tips should help you to maximize your decorative spending, making every dollar count more, in order to achieve the most attractive spaces possible.

The first thing you should consider is used items. Just because something is being discarded doesn’t mean that it is ugly, tattered, or ruined. Many times people cycle the style of their homes, discarding, donating, or selling objects which they have owned for a while, but which they no longer have the space for.

Yard sales are a great place to find inexpensive home décor items. Often you can purchase pieces that look brand new, for prices that are a fraction of what the original owner paid. Since decorative items are often only lightly used, they can survive the test of time better than other more functional pieces. One trick is to patrol the neighborhood in search of yard sales early in the morning to find the greatest selection, or to search them out late in the day, when they will be more likely to make a deal just so they can get rid of something.

You should also keep your eye open for flyers or ads in the paper about multi family garage sales. These are much larger events, with a number of different venders converging to offer their new and used wares. The advantage is that you can compare prices, and even play the different vendors off of one another.

EBay is sort of a huge, international yard sale, with literally millions of items listed for auction. While many commercial products are set at retail prices, there is always the possibility of finding a private seller that is just trying to make a few bucks getting rid of some old decorative items. In general, you will want to purchase smaller pieces from eBay, as shipping can end up being a factor. One way to offset this is to do searches by location and narrowing the listing down to items which are within driving distance so that you can go and pick them up.

Craigslist is another online tool that you can use to search out great deals on inexpensive home products. A giant classified ad, you can narrow your searches by item and location. Often you will find people listing very nice pieces of furniture on there for little or no money. However you should always be cautious when entering someone’s home to view a potential product. If possible it is always better to meet in a neutral, public location, to ensure everyone’s safety.

Even if you prefer to do your shopping for new, in store items, you should always be certain to compare prices. If you have a web enabled phone a quick search should be able to tell you if the same item is available online at a better price. If not, a pad and a pen will allow you to record prices and do competitive searches later on. Having a beautiful home doesn’t have to cost a fortune. There are a variety of tricks that you can use to save a couple of bucks. The key is to have a discerning eye, and to understand the value of the products you are looking at. You don’t want to just leap on the first cheep piece of junk that you see. Instead you should wait and browse and take your time making only the finest selections.

This article was brought to you courtesy of PebbleZ.com, the manufacturers of a line of inexpensive drink coasters made from natural sandstone, slate, marble, onyx, and fossil stone. The actual text was written by style philosopher Joey Pebble.

SW Home Decor
SantaFeDecor.com
WesternCowboyHorseDecor.com

Decorating Ideas for Tiny Kitchens

2009-11-11T13:33:00.000-08:00

Space is crucial in the kitchen; the chef has to have enough room for stirring, chopping, mixing, marinating, and just setting out the ingredients for everything they are preparing. The larger the meal, the more room you need. Unfortunately if your kitchen is inherently tiny, you are going to run into some problems finding space for everything. The following organizational tips should help you to find and make some extra room in even the smallest kitchen.

The first thing you should do is eliminate all clutter from the kitchen. Sometimes it isn’t always easy to recognize what clutter is in this space. There are so many fancy kitchen gadgets available that promise to revolutionize the future of cooking. However the truth is that many of these items get used just once or twice, and then are left taking up space and collecting dust.

You should make a sweep of the kitchen and place everything that isn’t used on a weekly basis into a box. Clearly label the box, and then put it away into storage, either in a closet, under a bed, or somewhere where it won’t be taking up valuable floor or counter space. Then, when an occasion arises where you need to use one of those tools, the clearly marked box will be right there waiting for you.

Next you should develop a formal organizational strategy within the space. Every accessory, every utensil, every bowl, ladle, and cup should have a home where they are constantly kept. If possible, use the tiny size of the kitchen to your advantage, hanging and storing everything you might need just an arms length away. In this way you can wrap the space around you like a cozy glove, which allows you to work faster and more efficiently.

There are many space saving accessories which you can also purchase to increase storage facilities and make the room more organized. If you have a free wall, a kitchen island can be a way to add portable storage and counter space to the room. Shelving is another good use of extra space, allowing you to further segment and organize your utensils.

Overhead racks are also great space saving devices. Installed on either walls or the ceiling, these can turn empty air above your head into a functional place to hang your spoons, ladles, bowels, whisks and other culinary tools.

While a small kitchen can be a bit of a challenge, it is one which you can overcome using organization and creativity. You want to know exactly where every tool you need is, and you don’t need any useless clutter getting in your way. In this manner, you can bring even the tiniest kitchen up to optimal efficiency.

This article is sponsored by PebbleZ, makers of over 40 styles of natural stone mosaic kitchen tables. These attractive tables are hand crafted from real pieces of slate, limestone, marble, travertine, and onyx. The article itself was written by Joey Pebble, an artist and designer that works with the company.

SW Home Decor
SantaFeDecor.com
WesternCowboyHorseDecor.com

Ten Tips To Chase The "Boring" Out of Your Bedroom

2009-10-02T08:41:00.000-07:00

There are things that can be done to chase the boring out of your bedroom. With today's consumer in mind, it can also be done without breaking the bank.

When considering your bedroom never choose dark colors for the walls and ceilings. Dark colors make the room, gloomy and appear small. Choose lighter colors, white beige, off-white, light blue, yellow; these colors will make your bedroom appear larger and given a light and airy feeling to the room. And whatever you do, make sure your color selection is in harmony.

Here are 10 tips that you can use to bring life back to an otherwise boring bedroom. Following these tips you can have a calm and serene atmosphere where the tranquility will never bore you.

Clear The Clutter. Take a look at your bedroom and get rid of anything that isn't conducive to relaxation or romance. This includes getting rid of the TV. (Research shows that the TV in the bedroom can hinder sleep.)

Shake It Up. Shifting or moving around your bedroom furniture can add new life to your familiar quarters. And hey, while you're at it rotate and flip your mattress to minimize uneven wear.

Trim It Up. You'd be amazed how adding a simple rickrack, ribbon or trim borders can add a little spice to an otherwise boring bedroom.

You Can't Handle The Truth. This is a low effort method that adds unique personality and style to otherwise boring furniture. Replace old drawer handles and drawer pulls, with new decorative ones.

Window Wow. Add some personality, and even some unique color with a valance. You can complement solid color curtains with a patterned valance - or flip-flop the look. You could even go with an upholstered look, by learning how to build a cornice and covering it with coordinating fabric.

Turn Down The Highbeams. Bedroom lighting should be subdued and indirect. Use a nightstand lamp or properly positioned wall scones for light to read by. But when you do that use three-way bulbs so you can control the lighting.

Bring Life To Your Room. An element that is sometimes overlooked in the bedroom is adding a houseplant or two. Houseplants generate oxygen and remove toxins from the air. So it is like adding "new life" to your bedroom by adding a houseplant.

Don't Get Caught With Matches. It may be tempting to get a bed in a bag that comes with everything. Remember you're trying to add life and variety to your bedroom - so it's not boring. There is nothing more boring than having everything match.

What Is In A Headboard? Any bed can take on a lush and sleek look with even the simplest headboard. There are even some headboard versions that are painted on or stencils that go right on the wall to give the appearance of a headboard without the expense.

Liven Up The Covering. Consider adding a new duvet or a new comforter. A new duvet cover or a new comforter (with matching shams) can create a whole new look almost instantly. You can move from dull and boring to snappy graphic, a modern to a classic look. All these can be accomplished in a snap by simply changing or adding a new duvet or a new comforter.

SW Home Decor

SantaFeDecor.com
WesternCowboyHorseDecor.com

The Subtle Power of Color in the Bedroom

2009-08-14T14:54:00.000-07:00

Color is a very powerful yet often overlooked part of our lives. It creates the backdrop of our existence. In an environment, the various colors all work together to form a mood. This mood can alter the way people think and act in a space. In the bedroom, where you let down your emotional and cognitive defenses each night, color is particularly important, because it will influence your mind, and actually have an effect, over the long term, on the kind of person you are.

The bedroom is a place where several very particular activities take place. At night you get undressed, climb into bed, turn off your mind, and go to sleep. Then you dream, and your unconscious mind gets to have its way with reality for a while. Then in the morning, the bedroom is where you wake up.

As far as sleep and dreaming, the colors in your bedroom are going to be the last things you see when you close your eyes. You had better believe that they will have an influence on what goes on in your mind, while you sleep. Then when you wake up, that is the first moment of consciousness that you have, and it can set the tone for the entire day.

It is important to note that different colors have different meanings. While the meaning of a certain tone may vary from person to person based on their personal experiences, there are colors which have a generally universal meaning, and which cause the same sort of reaction in most people.

For instance, in general red is a very passionate and inflammatory color. It symbolizes blood, war, and conflict, but also love, romance and passion. In the bedroom the color red is most often used to create energy. This can be romantic energy, or it can simply be the kind of energy that will help wake you up and invigorate you in the morning. The flip side of this is that these tones may also make it harder to fall asleep
at night.

Blue and green are considered soothing colors, and are a favorite choice for many bedrooms. Blue tends to elicit thoughts of the ocean, or a cloudless sky, both things which have a quiet air to them. Green is the color of life and nature, and it will make the space seem relaxed, yet lively, like being in the folds of a deep enchanted forest.

Earth tones tend to make a space feel cozier. Throughout history most building materials have been earthen in color and even further back or ancestors lived in caves. Browns, grays, soft oranges, and adobe colors all make us feel like we are inside, somewhere safe and warm. Earth tones are also the color of family, and so using these in a bedroom will simply make the space feel more comfortable and homey.

Of course the most important reference for how colors affect a person is how the tones actually make you feel. Everyone is different. You have to understand how you react to these different shades. This is especially important in a bedroom, where you are going to be one of the very few people affected. The colors choices you make in this space are very personal, and should be based largely on your own taste and reactions.

This article provided on behalf of PebbleZ.com’s line of decorative stone candle holders and natural gemstone and onyx home décor accessories. The actual article was written by Joey pebble, a style philosopher and stone artist.

SW Home Decor

SantaFeDecor.com

WesternCowboyHorseDecor.com

Finding Inspiration in Your Home and Life

2009-07-16T09:38:00.000-07:00

What are the consequences of a boring home? You step inside and everything is bland. There is nothing to catch the eye, nothing to make you think, nothing to inspire passion or love of life. The space is empty and emotionless, a void of thought and word.

Now imagine living in this home. All around you everything is the same. Every room is decorated simply, in the most boring and unassuming manner possible. If your home is the incubator of the soul, what would happen to your spirit, living day in and day out in such a space? What would happen to your personality if you had to go to sleep each night in that home and then wake up bleary eyed in the morning to an environment that didn’t have any life?

You have to understand the home as more than just a place where you keep your possessions. It is a living-breathing environment, and the personality of your home will have a definite impact on the personality that you yourself have. If the space is filled with powerful art, images that move you, colors that excite you, then you will have a more active mind, and will be quicker and more capable of dealing with the world.

Another thing to consider is what your home says about you as a person. The environment is an artistic expression of whoever decorated it. If there is passion and fury and beauty and art everywhere, than that is an expression of your soul. It’s like the clothes you wear, or the haircut you choose, or even the car you drive, it says something about you, about your life, and who you are. As such you should strive to put off the best impression that you can.

Inspiration is a rather personal thing. Certain poems, certain images are inspirational across a large swathe of people, but when it comes to beauty and emotions nothing is universal. As such you should start by looking inward. Find objects, colors, and illumination that speak to your own soul.

Of course you have to be a little careful here. Being too self-indulgent can cause you to end up with a “fairy” themed house, or some other far too singular theme. Instead look for things that inspire you, which you can share with others. If you and your friends are all moved by a certain piece, than it’s a sure bet it’s a pretty powerful decorative item. This is where getting opinions from some of the other people in the house might help.

Art is a good place to start looking. Certain images can evoke powerful emotions within the human soul. You should also pay attention to colors and patterns. Certain tones, like crimson reds, can make a space more exciting, but at the same time more volatile. Green and blue hues tend to make a setting feel more relaxing, and subdued.

The important thing to remember is that decorating is a form of art. It involves expressing your tastes, and your own soul, through the choosing and arranging of objects within a space. As long as you are guided by your own emotional needs, you will be certain to create a space that is inspirational for all.

This article has been provided courtesy of PebbleZ.com’s line of rustic home décor accessories made entirely from real, mountain born pieces of natural slate, onyx, gemstone, and marble. Joey Pebble, a philosopher of art and style, penned the article.

Smart Tips on Redecorating

2009-06-23T14:07:00.000-07:00

There are many ways to redecorate your home, some simple and inexpensive to more elaborate and costly. Here are some key steps in the redecorating process.

1. Make time: You must allow plenty of time. Assume that everything will take longer than expected. For example, if you are planning a large family get-together for the Christmas holidays, begin your research in the spring. If you plan to order furniture, it can take 6-12 weeks to receive from the time you actually decide to order. And, most of you won't be able to find much southwest furniture in your local furniture store.

2. List Favorites: Many of the pieces you have in your home can be quite functional in your new design. Make a list of "must keep" pieces. Many of those prized paintings or family heirlooms will fit nicely in the finished design. You will be looking for new items that will change the look to southwest without having to throw everything out and start over.

3. Clip Pictures: Start an "I Like" file. Clip pictures from magazines that appeal to you. Order fabric samples to help with color choices. It's much easier to match wall and room accent colors to a fabric you plan to use on a re-upholster job of your existing sofa and chairs.

Here are a couple of great magazines to order for sparking your creativity:
New Mexico Magazine, http://www.nmmagazine.com/
SuCasa Magazine, http://www.sucasamagazine.com/

4. Consider the Function: Design follows function. What do you want your rooms to provide for you? What do you want it to reflect about you? Will your grand room be "entertainment central?" Easy-to-clean upholstery and spill-on-me tile floors may be your best bet. Or do you desire a quiet, cozy nest for just you and your spouse? For example, you could install an Italian marble floor from entryway to dining room that announces the old world European charm found in many old haciendas throughout the southwest.

5. Choose what you love: Leave the approval committee way in the background when you start shopping on the Internet and your local store for what you want. It's fine to solicit input from household members and people with compatible taste, but it doesn't matter if Aunt Maria and your friend Sally like the dining room set you've fallen in love with. Comments from the peanut gallery while you are browsing is distracting at best, dream-dashing at worst.

6. Plan for Accessories: Don't forget the extras. Budget some time to choose all the little extras that personalize a room, and don’t forget to budget the funds to cover the cost of those little extras. That perfect wrought iron mirror for the entryway, bathroom accessories for your counters, a beautiful new comforter ensemble for the bed you have always loved can provide the change of style without breaking the bank.

7. Be flexible: Be open to suggestion from a local decorator. Or, find someone whose decor is always just perfect when you walk into her home. Solicit suggestions about form and colors and lighting to make your design perfect. Even if they don't decorate in southwest, the principles are the same. Then you can choose the designs and patterns that are southwest to you.

8. Be patient: Keep the finished look in mind. You don't have to change the whole house at once. Start with just one room. Try the living/family room or dining room to start. Then proceed to bathrooms or kitchens. Bedrooms are great focal points also and you get to enjoy it even more. Don't hesitate to speak your mind when you are working with a designer. Help them understand your likes and dislikes. Sometimes this takes several times of explaining to them that the idea they just had doesn't work for you. They are trained to take notice and modify until they find the kinds of things and styles you like. This is going to be your new design to live with not theirs.

Whether you know exactly what you want before you start or don't have a clue; whether you are redecorating your home from floor to ceiling or simply refreshing your existing decor, with proper planning and guidance the results can be breathtaking.

SW Home Decor
SantaFeDecor.com
WesternCowboyHorseDecor.com

Refinishing and Restoring Your Hardwood Floors

2009-04-13T15:09:00.000-07:00

A hardwood floor is a beautiful, natural element that can elevate the look and feel of any space. However if the floor is scratched and faded, they can actually be a terrible eyesore, and foot sore, if they start to splinter. Luckily the process of refinishing your floors is one that can be undertaken by yourself, without the need to shell out big bucks to some professional.

The first step towards refinishing your floors will be to thoroughly sand them down. No don’t get down on your hands and knees with a strip of sandpaper. This is the modern age, and professional grade automatic floor sanders can be rented from most equipment or hardware stores.

Even using a commercial sander the process will still be fairly labor intensive. The sander is apt to be large, heavy, and difficult to get around, and you will have to cover a lot of surface area if you want to do an entire floor of your house. While sanding, be very certain to move slowly and evenly across the wood. You don’t want to end up with dips or holes.

Once the floor has been completely sanded down, you should thoroughly cleanse it using a damp cloth. You have to be careful to remove all of the sawdust, dirt, and other particles from the floor before actually applying a finishing agent; otherwise the surface will end up being bumpy and ugly.

Choosing a good floor finish can be a bit of a problem. The most powerful commercial grade finishes aren’t sold to private individuals, because they are dangerous to use, and complicated to mix properly. However you will be able to find a variety of water and polyurethane based finishes that should suit your needs. You should specifically look for a kind that is advertised as “low odor”, and which can be re-applied as soon as it dries. If you can apply a second coat of the finish within 24 hours of the first you will save yourself the hassle of having to re-sand the floor in between the two applications.

Make certain that the floor is completely dry and clean before applying the stain. To apply the finish, you should use a good strong, and clean hard bristle brush. Make sure to wipe excess off of the brush to prevent drips, and then apply the stain in very light, even lines, across the floor. Stop often to check the absorption rate of the stain, and use a dry rag to wipe off excess.
Once the floor is refinished and looking like new, you will want to do your best to maintain that appearance. One major way to do this is to avoid harsh chemical cleaning agents. These acidic chemicals can break up the finish of the floor, and eat into the wood.

Instead clean the floor using a clean damp rag or mop. Then afterwards apply a thin coat of scented oil to the floor, to protect its surface, give it a nice clean shine, and fill the room with the aroma of your choice. Just be sure to wipe off excess oil so that the floor does not become too slippery.

Refinishing your floors doesn’t have to be an impossibly difficult or expensive task. Using modern equipment, it is a task that can be undertaken by one or two people, over the course of a weekend. The final result will be a major improvement to the look and feel of your home.

This article was written on behalf of PebbleZ’s rustic natural decorating accessories. The article itself was written and researched by interior expert Joey Pebble.

SW Home Decor
SantaFeDecor.com
WesternCowboyHorseDecor.com

Does Lighting Really Matter? Give Your Kitchen a New Look

2009-04-02T13:42:00.000-07:00

If you’re ready to remodel the kitchen, you’ve probably put a lot of time, money, and energy into selecting kitchen cabinets and flooring. Maybe you’ve gone all-out and ordered upscale countertops that resist stains, damage, and are easy to clean. Changing the lighting fixtures may seem like a very simple step in contrast; after all, how much can lighting really affect the appearance of a room.

In reality, the lighting you choose can make – or break – the atmosphere of the entire room. Want to ruin all of your efforts to create a warm, cozy space that seems comfortable and livable? Add a brightly glaring spotlight that blazes from the center of your room – directly over the spot where you’ve chosen to locate the table.

True, your kitchen is a workroom, and you want to be able to have a brightly lit workspace. Also, you don’t want to hide the room in shadows, a potential result of poorly placed recessed lighting fixtures. So what’s the workable alternative? A little bit of both!

The most innovative concept in lighting design today is called the “layered look.” The first, and brightest, layer of lighting is sometimes referred to as task lighting. Achieve this effect by installing lights that can be turned up when you’re chopping vegetables or baking cookies. Ideally, these lights are located between under wall cabinets, or at another point between your head and your work space.

The second layer of lighting is the one that most people forgo in an effort to save money. Ambient lighting can be located in the recesses of the room, or between the cabinets and the ceiling, and creates that soft glow that gives the room a cozy and conversational feel. If installing a separate lighting source isn’t a practical alternative, consider a dimmer switch instead. Turn up the lights when you’re working, and turn them down for an intimate dinner or quiet coffee conversation.

Accent china cabinets or special artwork with lower-voltage spotlights that draw attention to family heirlooms or treasured glassware are another option. These dimmer lights can also serve to illuminate the room without guzzling power in the evenings when you’re not quite ready yet to turn off all the lights in the kitchen.

Depending on the size and shape of your kitchen, you may have different needs. For example, perhaps you have a center island for a workspace, or want to be sure the children have good lighting at the bar to finish their school work.

Many people often make the mistake of deciding to try to install the lighting themselves, rather than hiring an expert. Lighting can be very complicated and even people with an eye for taste and color often find their decorating schemes undone by poorly chosen lighting.

Adding the proper lighting to your kitchen is definitely one area where an expert in lighting can actually save you money. After all, doing it right the first time is almost always much less expensive than trying to fix the mistakes you didn’t realize you were making.

This article brought to you by PebbleZ’s natural stone beverage coasters. The writing and research for the article was done by Joey Pebble; one of the designers that has worked extensively with the PebbleZ team.

SW Home Decor
SantaFeDecor.com
WesternCowboyHorseDecor.com

A Wedding Vase Tradition Story

2009-03-25T09:25:00.000-07:00

Macawi stood inside the door, stealing a quick backwards glance, making sure her family was still asleep. Quietly slipping out the round door of her family teepee, Macawi could clearly see the bright shining stars above. Looking eastward, she could see the eastern sky giving way to the soft golden glow of early morning. She quietly walked to her “secret” place to dream and pray.

Macawi was of age to be married and had secretly picked out her mate. As the night sky gave way to the overwhelming golden light of sunrise, she closed her eyes and pictured in her mind’s eye what the day – HER marriage day would be. Macawi’s thoughts drifted to Hania…tall, handsome, and strong…her Hania. He would make the perfect mate! Macawi pictured him now. She thought, “I’ve loved him forever!” Macawi silently whispered, “Great Spirit, help me find favor in Hania’s eyes and his heart. To you, Great Spirit, I will eternally be grateful!”

Slipping through the last thicket before reaching home, Macawi was startled by a large, loud crowd around her teepee. “What has happened”, she thought as she quickened her pace. Opening the teepee’s round door, Macawi stood face to face with Hania! She quickly glanced around the room and could see all of her family and ALL of Hania’s family. “What could this mean?” Macawi secretly hoped THIS was the day!

Hania’s mother and father were sitting with her mother and father with THE Wedding Vase. Macawi’s mother arose and approached with a proud smile. She said to Macawi, “It is time to bring out your wedding preparations”. Macawi stood as if in a dream – yes – a dream she had played over and over in her mind. Macawi went and brought out what she had prepared for her wedding; clothing, utensils, a mattress, moccasins, corn and a few other “homemaking” utensils she had prepared before hand. Lastly she got out her white Mata wedding dress.

Everyone was ushered out of the teepee except for Hania and his mother and father and Macawi and her mother and father. Both parents carefully explained Hania’s and Macawi’s new life together – sharing all the wisdom they had to give this new husband and wife the best start on life together.

Hania’s mother and father filled the Wedding Vase with holy water, sat it down and turned it around facing Macawi. Macawi picked it up and drank from one side of the Wedding Vase. After drinking, Macawi sat the Wedding Vase down, turned it around to face Hania, while quickly glancing to Hania seeing joy and love in his eyes. Hania then picked up the Wedding Vase and drank from the other side. Macawi’s heart lept with joy – she was now Hania’s bride! She silently thanked the Great Spirit for showing favor on her and granting her heart’s desire.

Hania’s and Macawi’s parents stood and said together, “This Wedding Vase was to be treasured and protected as a symbol of your union and love. It was never to be broken! If one of you should pass before the other, the remaining mate must find a couple that was happy together and give your Wedding Vase to this happily married couple”.

SW Home Decor

SantaFeDecor.com

WesternCowboyHorseDecor.com

How Healthy is your Living Space?

2009-03-23T13:32:00.000-07:00

Keeping your home healthy is about much more than dusting and sweeping once a week, or taking out the trash regularly. Here’s a quick checklist that you can use to scan your home and decide where improvements might be necessary. From dust-free floors to plant safety, follow these rules for keeping your home healthy – and safe for everyone who lives or visits.

Even if you aren’t allergic to dust, breathing it in regularly isn’t good for your health. How can you avoid, it though? It’s everywhere! If possible, opt for hardwood floors with area rugs. This will help to keep dust to a minimum. If this isn’t an option, vacuum regularly and avoid shag carpet.

Dust regularly, with a damp cloth, and avoid furniture polish. The chemical additives aren’t healthy. If you want to add a shine to wood furniture, choose lemon oil or an eco-friendly wood wax.

When using cleaning chemicals around your home, keep pets and small children in mind. Store these potentially dangerous items well out of reach, and use safety caps wherever possible to protect children from their own curiosity. Do the same with chlorine bleach and other detergents.

Unfortunately, the bathroom can often be a source of great interest – and great harm – for children and pets. Whenever possible, keep the bathroom door closed. Don’t store anything potentially dangerous under the sink.

Always keep the lid to the commode closed. Pets often view this necessary household location as a drinking fountain, and may get upset stomachs or intestinal infections in this manner. Small children who enjoy playing in bath water may not recognize the potentially dangerous attraction of this location as well.

If you aren’t able to keep the bathroom door closed, consider installing a safety closure device if young children or pets live at or frequently visit your home. Also use safety closure devices for cabinets that store potentially toxic chemicals. Electrical outlet covers are another inexpensive, easy to install device that can protect these visitors or residents.

Check outlet cords regularly, especially on small appliances, televisions, and lamps. Cords that become frayed can short and cause damage to these appliances, or even start a fire. Using electrical items with frayed cords can result in a nasty shock. Sometimes this shock is a painful reminder, or it can be potentially fatal. Replace damaged cords as soon as possible.

If you do have baseboard heat or use space heaters, be sure to keep clothing and other items away from the heater’s surface. Ceramic heaters are safest, but use these with caution, and never leave space heaters turned on when you are not in the room. Do not use kerosene heaters inside your home, garage, or any other building.

Everyone desires to be safe and comfortable in their own homes. Is your home safe for yourself and your family? Take these extra steps to ensure that your safe haven is safe for everyone who visits, as well. This small investment of time and energy can pay big dividends.

This article provided courtesy of PebbleZ – innovative designers of unique stone home décor products. The article was written by Joey Pebble, one of the key artists working with the PebbleZ team.

SW Home Decor
SantaFeDecor.com
WesternCowboyHorseDecor.com

NEW - Exciting Southwest Bedding Design - Cheyenne Turquoise

2009-03-12T15:16:00.000-07:00

SantaFeDecor.com is always on the look out for new and authentic southwestern home decor designs. We just recently had the pleasure of adding a new southwest style bedding design to our santa fe style decor.

The new design is Cheyenne Turquoise!

In todays home decor climate it is important for you to be on the cutting edge of newly released designs.

This new design, Cheyenne Turquoise is brand new! Be the first in your area to add the new design to your bedroom! You can become THE design expert...and you can claim ALL the credit.

Cheyenne Turquoise is a new, modern expression of southwestern bedding decor. Combines the looks of dark brown faux leather, silver conchos and grommets with the awesome coloring turquoise.

Get your set of Cheyenne Turquoise Southwest Bedding NOW!

SW Home Decor

SantaFeDecor.com

WesternCowboyHorseDecor.com

Closet Organizing the Easy Way

2009-02-19T13:02:00.000-08:00

If your closet is a chaotic mess of random junk then it’s practically useless. Anytime you need something you will end up spending more time on the search, than actually using it, and half the time the search itself will be a failure. That’s no way to live, and you don’t have to. Using the following quick and easy organizing tips, you will get your closet in order in no time, and save yourself the constant hassle of having to deal with the mess.

First you have to make a decision about which objects are important to your life, and which ones are just cluttering up the space. A good rule of thumb is that if something was placed in your closet more than six months ago, and hasn’t seen the light of day since, it is time to trash it, or at least donate it to a reputable charity. If you can’t remember how long it’s been since you last used something that is another indication that it is time for it to go, although if you’re really uncertain you can put it in a trash “staging” box, and give it another month’s reprieve before the final verdict.

Whatever remains constitutes the content of your closet. Now it is time to take that content, and divide it up into manageable portions. The use of clear plastic bins is one way to divide up stackable items such as shoes, and personal effects. Extra shelves are another great storage item. Clothes, ties, and other delicate cloth items will need to be hung, either from hangers, hooks, or tie racks. There are also a variety of multi-layered hangers on the market, which allow you to hang multiple instances of pants, shirts, or whatever from the same hook in a space saving, organized manner.

You should try and develop an overall strategy for your closet, dividing like items into different sectors of the space. One way to sort items is based on function, putting formal wear in one section of the space, and dividing work clothes and sports wear into another. This method is useful when you want to create coordinated “outfits” that will match perfectly. An alternative method involves dividing items based on similar characteristics. In this way all earrings go in one section, all hats go in another etc. etc. In this method everything is easy to find and grab at an instants notice, allowing you more flexibility when you go to build an outfit for yourself.

The more containers, hooks, and dividers that you have in a closet, the more organized it will be, but the harder it will be to maintain. That is because if you have seven bins for each particular type of earring you own, when it comes time to put those earrings away, you will have to find the exact, specific box that it goes in. However, when it is time to find that specific pair, you will know just where to look. This is a balance between ease and organization that each individual will have to make based on their personal preferences.

Closet organization can be greatly complicated if the closet you are working on is shared by multiple people. The only way to maintain such a space is to enlist the help of everyone involved. Make everyone aware of the organizational strategy you are following, and try and get them to actually help with the initial set up of the space. You can also make it easier by having clearly marked containers and dividers, which are easy to use, making the whole space as easy to maintain as possible.

Closet organization really isn’t that difficult. It is just a matter of dividing things up in a logical way that suits your own personality and habits. The real problem is in maintaining the space over time. This can be accomplished by developing a strategy, making certain that it is not too difficult to follow, and then forming a habit of organization that works with your everyday routine.

This article provided by PebbleZ’s line of elegant, upscale, marble drink coasters, and was written by Joey Pebble, a design and decorating expert that works with the company.

SW Home Decor
SantaFeDecor.com
WesternCowboyHorseDecor.com

Honoring and Remembering Pearl Harbor Day - The "Day That Shall Live In Infamy"

2008-12-05T13:42:00.000-08:00

The Navajo nation of the southwest was instrumental in our winning WWII. The Navajo language answered the military requirement for an undecipherable code because Navajo is an unwritten language of extreme complexity. Its syntax and tonal qualities, not to mention dialects, make it unintelligible to anyone without extensive exposure and training. It has no alphabet or symbols, and is spoken only on the Navajo lands of the American Southwest.

The Navajo Code Talkers, whose ranks exceed 400 during the course of World War II in the Pacific Theater. Have been credited with saving countless lives and hastening the end of the war. The Code Talker's served in all six Marine divisions from 1942 to 1945. Many ranking military officers have stated that the United States would never have won the Battle of Iwo Jima without the secrecy afforded by the code talkers.

Pearl Harbor day is December 7th and in honor of those who served, Santa Fe Decor wants to offer a 12.07% discount on any purchase.

Use coupon code: PEARLHARBOR

Shop SantaFeDecor.com

Shop WesternCowboyHorseDecor.com

Take advantage of our Pearl Harbor Day Honors discount of 12.07%, good from Friday 12/05/08 thru Friday 12/12/08.
Use coupon code: PEARLHARBOR

P.S. Honoring Pearl Harbor Day, take advantage of our 12.07% Pearl Harbor Discount. (Discount good from Friday 12/05/08 thru Friday 12/12/08).

SW Home Decor

SantaFeDecor.com

WesternCowboyHorseDecor.com

LUMINARIAS AND FAROLITOS, A TRADITIONAL SOUTHWESTERN CHRISTMAS

2008-12-02T13:59:00.000-08:00

Want to create a unique southwestern “feel” to your home this Christmas holiday? Each of us have Christmas Holiday traditions; religious, cultural and family “pass-downs” that we enjoy every year. You can “spice up” your Christmas season with a traditional Southwestern flavor. New Mexico simply “glows” during this season; every curb, roadway or roof there will be a line of small fires. You will see little rivers of light, “rios de luces”. LUMINARIAS and FAROLITOS create a rich, picturesque warm glow to nearly every building in the area.

FAROLITOS create a unique and beautiful home highlight, while welcoming family and friends. First, let us share little bit of the history behind these FAROLITOS, “little lanterns” or “street lamps”. It’s a wonderful story to share with your friends!

In the Southwest, the terms “LUMINARIAS and FAROLITOS” have come to be used almost interchangeably. For example, in Santa Fe the little lanterns are called FAROLITOS, while people in Albuquerque tend to call them LUMINARIAS.

So which are which? What "IS" the real name?

In the 1800’s luminarias were small bonfires built along the roadside to commemorate Christ’s birth and to guide people to Midnight Mass, the final night of LAS POSADAS, “lodging or inn”. Farolitos are small bags with sand in the bottom and a small candle inside. Children reenacting the night of Las Posadas often carry farolitos. In modern times they are used to line walkways, roadsides and roof tops.

The night of Las Posadas is a festive celebration first introduced to the Mexican Indians by European missionaries reenacting the story of Joseph and Mary’s search for lodging in Bethlehem in a series of NOVENA, “nine days”, beginning December 16th.

Each night a group of carolers will go from house to house, carrying small lanterns made of a paper bag with a lit candle inside (farolitos). The carolers would sing a song pleading for food and shelter. Some homes would turn them away, but others would invite them in and offer food – posole, red and green chili stews, Christmas Eve tamales, biscoshitos, etc.

The tradition of luminarias and farolitos comes from Mexico, celebrated in New Mexico for many years before spreading across the United States, Canada and Europe.

Here’s an interesting variation on luminarias we came across. Luminarias or luminaries are linked throughout history to the ancient tradition of communicating, warning and celebrating through linked bonfires. For example, in the 19th century, German and French settlers who migrated to Louisiana, lit hundreds of bonfires along the Mississippi river. Not only did the lights symbolically guide Joseph and Mary, they were also meant to guide the Acadian version of Santa Clause, Pa Pa Noel. These lights enabled Pa Pa Noel to navigate through the thick river fog to bring presents to the children.

Let's all celebrate a warm and inviting Christmas this year with "rio de luces"!

You can view pictures and order electric luminarias here:
Southwest Farolitos

SW Home Decor
SantaFeDecor.com
WesternCowboyHorseDecor.com

Earth Tones in the Kitchen

2008-10-29T08:43:00.000-07:00

The kitchen is a place of warmth, where loved ones gather around to savor enticing smells, and delightful treats, while basking in the glow of one another’s company. It is the traditional family room, where everyone who wants to eat, comes together to share in this mutual necessity, and are thus, bonded together. That’s why earth tones work so perfectly in this space. They naturally foster a sense of home and hearth that intensifies the communal spirit of the kitchen.

Petroglyphs kitchenware (shown in photo above) accessories available at SantaFeDecor.com.

Earth tones are also really easy to incorporate into a kitchen. Many surfaces such as cabinets and countertops have a tradition of being built from a variety of hardwoods. These can range in tone from dark to light but all share the same earthy brown / tan colors that occur naturally in all hardwoods.

There are also a variety of hardwood accessories which can be purchased, that will match the theme throughout the space. Tables, chairs, barstools, wine racks, and kitchen islands are all large pieces that can be made from oak, ash, pine, cedar, redwood, teak, or any of a hundred other types of wood, and can be stained in a wide variety of earth tone colors. You can even purchase these pieces unfinished and stain them to your desired tone.

If you like the natural earth tone look you can also consider using slate, in backsplashes, flooring, and countertops as another way of incorporating these colors throughout the kitchen. Slate is a type of stone which is available in about 100 different colors. These colors span the entire rainbow of hues found in the various mountains from which they are quarried, but almost all of these variations share an earthen quality which hints at rustic browns and greens, the colors of the earth itself.

If you want to use earth tones in a more contemporary manner, there are a variety of paints or wallpapers that can be used. Resurfacing cabinets is a relatively painless way to makeover the look of the entire space using whatever colors you desire. You can also consider painting molding and trim, to create contrasting accents against a lighter colored wall. Colors such as sage, camel, rust, or tan are all very soft, soothing tones that can relax the energy of the space.

Wall accessories are another good way to spread the warm hearth earth tones throughout the space. Your walls are a canvas for a variety of items, from clocks, to prints, to novelty kitsch signs. Decorative items made from whicker or straw are a traditional country style way of adding these elements. Curtains are another easy way to add a splash of earthy color to the space.

Earth tones can provide you with a wonderful palette of colors to use when decorating your kitchen. The warm and hearty comfort that they elicit flows naturally with the purpose and function of the space. In fact, they can actually enhance the communal properties of your kitchen, by creating an atmosphere of safety and love which will register on the subconscious mind of anyone who enters.

This piece was written by Joey Pebble, a stone artist and designer, who specializes in rustic stone home furnishings made from a variety of natural stone materials including slate, sandstone, travertine and marble.

SW Home Decor

SantaFeDecor.com

WesternCowboyHorseDecor.com

Unleash Your Creativity and Have Fun!

2008-10-13T13:31:00.000-07:00

Unleash your creativity and have fun…

Decorating with a southwestern theme opens up a “huge window” of themes - colors - textures and patterns.

Southwest decor theme(s) can be as easy as adding just a small accent item like a kiva ladder draped with a southwest style hand woven rug ornamented with traditional geometric southwestern patterns and colors.

OR your southwestern decor can be as extensive as changing the main furniture in your living room like replacing a couch or chair and even adding a nice travertine tile to the floor… going all out with southwestern colors, textures and patterns.

Additionally, on can use patterns and textures. In short, textures can be used for many purposes like:

you can use a pattern or texture to create a focal point
you can use it to create a theme that goes throughout the space whether it's your living room, bedroom or bathroom
you can enhance an otherwise dull space
you can add a little bit of excitement or add “flair”

So whatever you decide to do, one of the great things about doing this yourself is being able to express YOU – express your very own persona. You can feel proud when your family and friends express awe at the atmosphere you created.

So let's start a new redecorating project and let's have fun with it!

SW Home Decor
SantaFeDecor.com
WesternCowboyHorseDecor.com

Choosing The "Perfect" Wall Color

2008-09-04T12:35:00.000-07:00

As you start your decorating project, choosing the right wall color can make the difference between a “so-so” room and a living space that your friends just RAVE about. Today, there are so many different colors that choosing the perfect color can be an exciting task! Just remember, the wall color will set the tone of your entire room.

Most of us will be redecorating one room at a time. If you are redecorating your living room, decide which piece you are going to use as the main “color” item. For example, your sofa has a fabric with a central color theme that you will use to set the tone of your room. Take a piece of fabric from the sofa (for instance a pillow) to the paint store to help you choose your wall color. Use this same process for your bathroom or your bedroom.

Let’s say you choose the bedroom for your makeover project. Usually your bed comforter will be the largest item on which to base the “color” theme.

Now may be the perfect time to browse either the SantaFeDecor.com or WesternCowboyHorseDecor.com website to choose a new comforter design to begin your bedroom project.

After you've chosen your comforter ensemble, study the colors to find the underlying tones or hues that can be used to enhance your decorating project. Many times, interior decorators will choose one of the lighter background shades in the fabric as their wall color.

MOOD
The color tone will set the overall mood for your new room, either a warm or cool tone. Southwestern decorators often use what is considered “warm” colors. Today, EARTH TONES are very popular; light browns, yellows, turquoise, sage, and very light rose. Darker blues, greens, and violets are considered “cool” colors and are typically not used with Southwestern color schemes.

TIP
Some decorators choose a “focal wall”, using a slightly darker color tone on that wall while using a complimentary lighter color on the other three walls.

WHITE
A note here about “white”, white is not always white – seems a funny statement, doesn’t it? Beiges and off-whites have very subtle color, make sure you compare paint chips along side your printed fabric, in the room with the light you would normally use. Most decorators recommend that you trim (window trim, door trim, etc.) your room in a shade of off-white or white. Some will also use the lightest shade of the color in your printed fabric for the trim.

Paint finish is an important consideration. Matte or flat finishes tend to hide underlying wall imperfections. Glossier finishes reflect light and are easier to clean, but often cause wall imperfections to be more noticeable.

Knowing the dimensions of your room is very helpful. You may want to create an “approximate” drawing of your room on a piece of notebook paper and keep it with you as you shop for paint. Professionals at the store can assist you with the proper quantity of paint from the dimensions you have on your drawing. Don’t be afraid to ask questions! Enjoy your makeover project and get ready for those RAVE reviews!

SW Home Decor
SantaFeDecor.com
WesternCowboyHorseDecor.com

Western, Cowboy, Ranch style a "look" that reminds us of the Old West and is always in fashion!

2008-08-25T14:10:00.000-07:00

Western, Cowboy, Ranch style a "look" that reminds us of the Old West and is always fashionable!

Natural materials is an essential element in decorating in a western themes. Normally, local rock, wood, metal and leather are materials used in basic construction with the adding of wool, beadwork and Deer or Elk antler making up the "accent" items.

Furniture used in creating a Western or Cowboy style are usually large and sturdy looking wood pieces. Today many use log constructed furniture in their western decorating. Older is usually preferred to a new furniture piece. Many awesome decorating themes include cracked leather living room furniture, old indian blankets and even old ranch work implements.

Bedrooms done in a western style usually have a masculine feel. Mixing a variety of styles for your desired effect can include Native American, denim or wool blankets just to name a few.

Fabrics in a Cowboy, Ranch room are tough and textured. Usually lots of leather, suede, wool, denim and fur is used. Most are usually matte finished - look used and weathered. Upholstered furniture can have woven chenilles and fabrics with various patterns.

Colors most commonly found in a Western home are light brown to honey shaded wood, rock and metals. Colors used to accent the main colors are terra cotta, brown, sienna red, sedona red, blues - including navy and gray. This wide variety of colors gives the decorator total freedom in decorating styles and color themes.

Floors are almost always hardwood. Wide plank flooring, especially some from an old barn or cabin is an absolute "Winner"! On top of these wood floors, are a variety of woven wool rugs, furs and animal hides.

The overall cowboy - western - ranch look is normally a blend of new and old, rugged with some soft accents. The modern western, cowboy or ranch style home can be as much of new or old as you would like. Some of the most compelling rooms is using a tasteful blend of the old, rough, timber look combined with the new softer leather and wools.

SW Home Decor
SantaFeDecor.com
WesternCowboyHorseDecor.com

Native Americans - The First Americans

2008-08-20T12:39:00.000-07:00

Came across an interesting website the other day. Native-Americans-Online.com, a real interesting site covering many varied aspects of the Native American culture, pictures and traditions.

On this site there is a link to the Seven Philosophies for the Native American Man

Here is just the start of those philosphies:
The following was from the Gathering of Native American Men in June 1996 at Colorado:

The wisdom of Native Elders is contained in the Seven Philosophies and is offered to Native American men so that they may be better fathers, sons, husbands, uncles, relatives, friends, Tribal members and citizens of the countries in which they live. The Seven Philosophies point the way towards a return to the values of Native American culture for the healing of individuals, families and Native Communities.

First Philosophy - TO THE WOMEN
The cycle of life for the woman is the baby, girl, woman, and grandmother. These are the four directions of life. She has been given by natural laws, the ability to reproduce life. The most sacred of all things is life. Therefore, all men should treat her with dignity and respect. Never was it our way to harm her mentally or physically. Indian men were never abusers. We always treated our women with respect and understanding. So from now on:

I will treat women in a sacred manner. The Creator gave women the responsibility for bringing new life into the world. Life is sacred, so I will look upon the women in a sacred manner.
In our traditional ways, the woman is the foundation of the family. I will work with her to create a home atmosphere of respect, security and harmony.
I will refrain from any form of emotional or physical abuse. If I have these feelings, I will talk to the Creator for guidance.
I will treat all women as if they were my own female relatives. This is my vow.

Second Philosophy - TO THE CHILDREN
As an eagle prepares its young to leave the nest will all the skills and knowledge it needs to participate in life, in the same manner so will I guide my children. I will use the culture to prepare them for life.
The most important thing I can give to my children is my time. I will spend time with them in order to learn from them and to listen to them.
I will teach my children to pray, as well as the importance of respect.
We are the caretakers of the children for the Creator. They are His children, not ours.
I am proud of our own Native language. I will learn it if I can and help my children to learn it.
In today's world it is easy for the children to go astray, so I will work to provide positive alternatives for them. I will teach them the culture. I will encourage education. I will encourage sports. I will encourage them to talk to the Elders for guidance; but mostly, I will seek to be a role model myself.
I make this commitment to my children so they will have courage and find guidance through traditional ways.

You can read the rest of the 7 Philosophies

SW Home Decor
SantaFeDecor.com
WesternCowboyHorseDecor.com

Denim Bedding - Hard To Find?

2008-08-15T11:33:00.000-07:00

We've searched the web for an long time with little success finding good denim bedding. We thought "denim" would be a natural fit for accenting western or cowboy styles, but have had a hard time finding some denim bedding that would be a thoughtful addition to a cowboy or cowgirl's bedroom.

We've finally come across some denim bedding that looks like it is a winner! This denim style we found is a nice blend of blue and red denim with bands of leather brown in between. It also sports a high quality distressed faux leather look!

Check out our new find in denim bedding for that casual cowboy look.

SW Home Decor
SantaFeDecor.com
WesternCowboyHorseDecor.com

New JOHN WAYNE Design Home Decor

2008-08-07T11:39:00.000-07:00

John Wayne, (The Duke) was the icon of the Western movie. Many of his westerns were set in New Mexico and Arizona, the last cowboy bastian of the Southwest.

If you remember the movie McClintock, that was based on real events that happened in Lincoln County New Mexico just 100 miles southwest of Albuquerque. It was based on the Lincoln County Wars in the late 1800's.

Famous names like Billy the Kid and Pat Garret came from the events surrounding this story.

We now have a grouping of great western decor items to remind us of John Wayne's desire to tell the story of the beauty and bravery of the old southwest and the cowboys and ranchers that made it great. These make great decor items for the John Wayne fan in your family. It's great for an office, family room or game room - where he hangs out.

Take a look at some great NEW John Wayne western decor items.

SW Home Decor
SantaFeDecor.com
WesternCowboyHorseDecor.com

NEW Web Site Launched For Western Home Decor Lovers

2008-08-05T14:56:00.001-07:00

Western style home decor is ever popular and as a style, is "timeless". People who are coordinating themes from pure western to lodge to mountain rustic, use many of the elements in traditional western decor.

WesternCowboyHorseDecor.com, a new website was launched to serve those who are looking to decorate with this outstanding style.

Why not take time out today and do some browsing through this new website!

SW Home Decor
SantaFeDecor.com
WesternCowboyHorseDecor.com

Easy, Beautiful Home Addition - Wallpaper Border

2008-07-31T12:49:00.000-07:00

Wallpaper Borders add a quick touch of southwest or western style to your rooms. The borders are great as a design element right next to the ceiling or used as a chair rail height. While living in heart of cowboy country, in Houston, Texas (before we moved to Albuquerque), we had teenagers still living at home.

Have you ever noticed how much your teenagers have to caress all the walls as they walk by? We had a hallway that lead from our great room to their bedrooms. I was constantly washing their dirty finger prints off my pristine white walls. We got the great idea to install a southwestern style wallpaper border right where their fingerprints used to end up. Afterwards the fingerprints didn't stick any more, problem solved!

Western or Southwest Style wallpaper borders add that hint of color and design to a bedroom, dining room or kitchen. You'll love it. Your friends will love it too!

Southwestern Design Wallpaper Borders Here

Western Design Wallpaper Borders Here

SW Home Decor

SantaFeDecor.com

WesternCowboyHorseDecor.com

Southwestern Painted Wall Color Is An Easy Decor Change

2008-07-30T08:54:00.000-07:00

You don't have to live in Arizona or New Mexico to enjoy Southwestern style interior design. Every house can adapt to this casually-elegant style that draws its inspiration from nature and the Spanish and Pioneer settlers that populated the American Southwest in the 18th and 19th centuries. Southwestern style, as we know it today, evolved over time. It takes the colors and textures from the desert with the Mexican and Spanish additions of ironwork, textiles, and wooden carvings.

Southwestern style interior design follows the soft lines of traditional adobe houses and reflects the easy, relaxed Southwestern lifestyle. It's a simple -- and affordable -- style to achieve, if you pay attention to the details.

The colors of Southwestern design are the colors found in the American desert. Rich, rust terra cotta, soothing sand colors, sage and cactus greens, reddish rust, sienna and deep mahogany brown combine to form a relaxed, natural palette. Sometimes, the bright colors common to the Native American and Mexican cultures, such as bright red and deep azure blue are used as accent colors.

The textures of Southwestern style interior design also mirror those elements found in nature in the American Southwest. Natural clay tile, pine wooden structural beams and furniture, and woven grasses are all key elements in this design style.

You can find all of these colors at your paint store. Try to stay away from Navajo White as a background color. It's much better to use light browns and terracotta for large wall surfaces. Our adobe home here in Rio Rancho has most of the walls painted a deep adobe brown. It is really fantastic and blends very well with the natural wood accents and southwestern accents.

Many people will add a single accent wall in a room with a deep rich color of the southwest. Maybe colors like deep rust, plum, sage or cactus green or maybe deep rich yellow for a striking color. Whatever color you decide, be sure to test a 4'x4' area of a wall to see how that particular tint looks when dry.

SW Home Decor

SantaFeDecor.com

WesternCowboyHorseDecor.com