How To Create A Mexican Interior

Bright, zesty colours and lively patterns feature heavily in the decor of Mexican home interiors. This bold and fresh finish makes this design a popular choice with those who wish to create a uplifting and feel good atmosphere within their home.

These cheerful interiors are steeped in folklore and tradition and perfectly balance bold and abstract design features with natural and classic materials. From kitchens to bedrooms Mexican interior design will add a splash of energy and fun to your interior space.

Colour Schemes

When it comes to selecting colours for your Mexican interior then there is one simple rule; Go Wild! From bold reds, oranges and yellows to exotic purples, cobalt and turquoise, every colour in every tone and hue can be utilised. These bright and carnival inspired colours can be layer one upon another for a truly eye-catching interior colour palette or can be paired with crisp white walls, neutral backdrops and traditional terracotta floor tiles for a slightly more subtle and manageable look.

Wall Tiles

Instead of the textured and coloured wallpapers that are found across Europe, Mexicans follow the traditions of most Hispanic countries with its use of bold and artistic wall tiles to create a focal point within their home. Talavera tiles are often printed with Spanish colonial patterns while more elaborate designs are hand painted to feature images and characters from Mexican folklore. Much in the same style as the rest of the home, tiles are hand painted in bright and vivid colours and are often used to highlight specific areas such as a sink, a shrine or a bath tub.

Textiles

Mexican textiles and designs are steeped in history and have been a staple feature of Mexican interiors for more than 7000 years. Throws, blankets, cushions and rugs are usually woven from cotton or wool and feature brightly dyed threads in vibrant hues of yellow, green, blue, orange and red. Textiles often take inspiration from Central America with Aztec and Mayan patterns and Saltillo designs and frequently incorporate images of indigenous people, costumes and imagery from the mythological tales of the local area. Textiles also play an important role in the woven paintings of the Huichol Indians who live in the Sierra Madre region of Mexico and adorn the walls of many homes across the country.

Skulls

The intricately decorated skulls that are a frequent motif in Mexican interior design are representative of the Day of The Dead or 'Dia De Los Muertos'. Much as the druid religion celebrates All Hallows Eve, Mexicans use this day to remember loved ones who have passed over into the afterlife.

The skull motif is used prolifically throughout the home in ornamentation, food, decorations and lanterns and the skull itself features floral designs and intricate patterns that can be emphasised using fiesta inspired colours or more neutral palettes that will work fabulously as a wall covering or fabric in more refined, contemporary homes (right).

Furniture

Mexican interiors embrace a rustic and natural furniture finish that contrasts wonderfully against the bold colours of their interior backdrop. Chunky wood and textural grains are a reflection of Spanish colonial influences along with delicate and intricate wrought iron bed frames, table legs and ornaments that place emphasis on Mediterranean style and femininity. Furniture is designed to be functional and durable and materials are selected for their strength and local availability. Items can be left plain and natural for a hacienda feel or can be painted and decorated for a more vibrant and clashing burst of colour that works particularly well on statement items such as dressers, tables and wardrobes.

For more inspiration on how to create a rich and vibrant Mexican interior then head over to our latest Pinterest board -Pinterest - Mexican Interior where you will find an array of ideas that will transform any home into a Hispanic haven of colour and style.