You are probably familiar with the vibrant South American festivities, but how about bringing this vibe to your own interiors?

Go ahead and experiment with Latin American style if you miss the brightness or you just want to add more colors to your own space.

Small renovations and design adjustments can diversify your home and give it unusual exotic features –creating a dramatic effect.

You can either decorate the entire interior in a spectacular southern style or simply add a few quirky accessories to bring variety to an otherwise monotonous space. Because Latin America is so diverse, many designers are attempting to create an original author's interior in their own interpretation, bringing forth the alluring vibe of the Argentine tango or referring to the theme of religious Indians who practiced a variety of unique and mysterious pagan rituals.

Eclecticism and many surprising color combinations are allowed in this style, so if you can't stop at one thing, it won't be a problem. To have a better understanding of the principles used in eclectic design, have a quick read of this short piece "Get to Know the Eclectic Interior Design."

Those who can't imagine living without vivid colors and ethnic motifs, and prefer incorporating the presence of ceramic, clay, or even reed decorative elements, are advised to pay attention to interior design that reflects all the rules of the Latin American style.

As much as possible, pay attention to color performance. Hispanics generally prefer bright, rich colors, so don't skimp on the color palette. Because the rules concerning base colors are quite vague, you don't have to be hesitant about "overheating" your interior space with vivid reds, oranges, or deep greens –all these are in keeping with traditional Latin carnival culture. Get more ideas from “Beautiful Decor Ideas From Latin America.”

The basis of the Latin American style is vibrant, rich colors that blend in the most stunning way --but always harmoniously. Therefore, the most common color combinations are pink mixed with blue, orange, green, and burgundy. And by the way, these hues have long been used to decorate the walls and ceilings of Indian homes, but it appears that a riot of colors has sunk into the soul of Latin Americans; and such an original, unique palette is regarded now as virtually a national hallmark.

Recently, designers have decided not to disregard the country's color, embracing bright colors and simple furniture, spacious wardrobes, curved headboards of spacious beds, and colorful textiles. Learn more in “Latin America’s Approach to Interior Design” and discover Influential Latin American Interior Designers.

So, how to get started with your modern Latin American interiors? Continue reading to learn how to bring the layered Santa Fe or Hispanic aesthetic in your own home.

Welcoming Foundations

Santa Fe style is defined by an earthy comfort inspired by the city's history, desert landscapes, and Native American and Spanish design influences. It is cozy, modern, and a little edgy all at the same time. Here are the main core aspects to keep in mind when recreating the style in your own home.

1- Work with a warm palette

Ala Hispanic or American Southwest interiors use a vividly warm color palette that includes rusty reds, burnt oranges, deep browns, and shades of natural and earth tones, rather than light neutrals, pristine whites, and blue tones. The colors work together to create a warm, welcoming palette that evokes the arid desert terrain.

2- Lay out focus areas

The layout of modern southwestern-style spaces is carefully curated. These spaces often consist of smaller focused sections within a bigger living space, such as comfy conversation spots and nooks turned into reading corners. To begin, try strategically placing rugs to generate visual distinction between areas and use plants to create a visual contrast between areas.

A cowhide laid on top of a classic rug, for instance, can extend your seating area, while a tall cactus or fiddle-leaf ficus tree can inadvertently serve as a room divider.

3- Eclectic appeal

Southwestern-style interiors are known for their colorful and eclectic appeal, which is achieved by combining a stylish blend of modern design, navajo patterns, and bohemian accents. And the overall feel is inviting and comfortable, but with plenty of luxurious textures.

4- Build on the patterns

Because real splashes of color, pattern, and texture exist in Santa Fe-style interiors, make sure you bring in items you really like and can see yourself living with. Where should one start?

Navajo-inspired pillows, whimsical-themed blankets, or a geometric kilim rug are all excellent foundations from which to draw colors for accents throughout the room. When it comes to selecting art, go for landscapes or go abstract with graphic paintings and prints; just be mindful to keep the hues in the earthy desert palette.

5- Think modern, not sleek

Choose mid-century silhouettes and furniture with modern frameworks for your anchor pieces. Tapered-leg seats, braided leather armchairs, and even a metal bar cart are all excellent options.

The vibrant colors and patterns of such accessories give a cool contrast to the clean-lined charm of these pieces. Just keep in mind that you want to stick to rustic materials and even look for pieces with some patina. Starting with worn leather, weathered woods, or softly faded carpeting is a brilliant way to go!

6- Keep it organic

As much as possible, choose natural materials for your furnishings and décor. Then take that same ethos and apply it to your smaller furniture pieces. Adobe architecture is mirrored in designs with curvy silhouettes and organic shapes, which can serve to emphasize the southwestern aesthetic. 

7- Get the greens on

Cacti are probably the most important piece of the southwestern style puzzle; without them, the statement isn't complete. So make sure to include a variety of plants that reflect the region's unique combination of lush and arid landscape. A giant potted cactus, as well as tiny cacti and other leafy plants, add vibrant touches essential for completing the Latin American look.

Still can’t make up your mind which color theme to go with and what accents to use? Get more ideas here “How to Properly Mix and Match Styles When You Can’t Pick Just One.”

We hope we've given you enough tips to work with. Transforming your space into a Latin American look is going to take time. Take it slow, enjoy the process, and let the experts from Jarvis Interiors help you!

 

Content Credits

Latin America’s Approach to Interior Design

Influential Latin American Interior Designers

Get to Know the Eclectic Interior Design

Beautiful Décor Ideas From Latin America

How to Properly Mix and Match Styles When you Can’t Pick Just One

Destination Style: Bring Home Eclectic Santa Fe Style