Southwest design for kitchens has become increasingly popular due its ease of use and casual atmosphere for family living. Influenced by Native Americans as well as Mexican and Spanish heritage, Southwest design is an engaging mix of simplicity, repeating shapes and designs,rustic furniture and earthy, bold color. Does this Spark an idea?
Beyond the Obvious
Stereotypically, Southwestern design for kitchens incorporates touches like chili peppers or Indian themes. Break away from these and include new ways of combining old and new appliances, hardware and lighting. Flooring and cabinetry can also expand beyond the expected way of Southwestern decorating.
Use modern cabinetry highlighted with black wrought iron or copper hardware. By adding your own eclectic touches with bold color choices, you can create a unique and innovative Southwest design in the kitchen. Explore colors for your kitchen like sky blue, bright turquoise, terra cotta, cobalt and bold chili pepper red. Your Southwest kitchen does not have to be dull. Add handcrafted touches of ceramic and stoneware to complement the Southwest look. Copper is a great metal to use for faucets along and lighting fixtures to create a beautiful Southwest kitchen.
Tile Floors
For a true Southwest look for your kitchen, add a Saltillo tile floor. Saltillo tiles are considered clay pavers and add instant depth and lots of color to your kitchen. These tiles are handmade, and some may be more rustic than others. It is not uncommon to find a footprint from a chicken or other roaming animal in these tiles. This tile comes in two types, the Mexican, or rounded edge, which is slightly less expensive, or the Spanish or Italian Saltillo tile, which is denser and harder. The latter is a better value because it will hold up to the wear and tear of daily use in a kitchen. Both of these tiles must be sealed with sealer prior to installation, as well as being sealed again after being grouted.
Finishes, Accents and Appliances
Choose old world style finishes for an authentic-looking Southwest kitchen. Avoid surfaces that appear too polished, such as chrome or satin nickel. Copper or oil rubbed bronze finishes are better choices. These finishes look great on plumbing fixtures as well as lighting fixtures and cabinetry hardware.
Stick with stainless steel appliances. These act as a neutral background and blend with just about any type of kitchen. For a more traditional look, try Aga appliances, which feature rounded edges and give a more vintage look. Avoid bright white appliances.
Look for accent touches like copper switchplate covers, wrought iron handles for doors, furniture or cabinets. Incorporate Southwest design by stenciling over a doorway or window.
Using just a few of these ideas will easily transform your ordinary, everyday kitchen into a Southwest kitchen that is comfortable and practical.
Tags: Southwest design, Southwest kitchen, your kitchen, bold color, design kitchens, lighting fixtures, Saltillo tile