The Sanctuary of a Southwest Bedroom

If you like the unusual, have a keen love of personal time and space, as well as an eye for color and flair, a southwest bedroom may be just the type of room you crave. Of course, we all know the bedroom’s main function is to seek the rest and relaxation we deserve…a retreat of sorts. We desire a bedroom that is personally ours to enjoy, maybe alone or with your partner. The first step when considering if a southwest bedroom is right for you, is to ask yourself if you find a rustic type of room to be comforting and restful, where the rules of interior design are not sought after, or if a room decorated in a more traditional way with standard styles and colors would suite you better. One key worth mentioning is that southwest décor is thought of as a non-conforming style of decorating where just about anything goes! 

There are many different elements to consider when choosing to decorate your bedroom in a southwestern style. Native American accents as well as Mexican, Spanish or western touches are all considered southwestern and work well together. It's a matter of personal taste. Choose a southwest feeling that gives you comfort and peace. Each morning, what would you like to open you eyes and see? There are many options when choosing the style of your southwest room. When deciding on the larger pieces of furniture, for more of a western theme southwest bedroom, you may feel inspired to purchase a bed frame made of black wrought iron. Combined with bedding that carries with it, a distinct bunkhouse ranch cowboy feel, you’ll easily have a winning combination. The increasingly popular Native American style is another southwestern choice. A rustic pine log frame bed, either stained or natural, would set a great tone for the room. Choose unique bedding that reflects the Indian culture. The use of hides and furs in the room would add warmth and texture. The history of Native Americans is fascinating and placing unique artifacts in your room, as well as artwork containing Indian images and village scenes, will complement nicely. 

The Native American culture is one to be respected and brings with it many stories passed throughout the generations. One such story is that of the dream catcher. According to Indian legend, this webbed circle flowing with feathers, hung above one’s bed, has the ability to sort dreams, good from bad, and in the morning light, leave the dreamer with only pleasant dreams. As for the floor in your southwest bedroom, adding a beautifully woven throw rug or runner will bring a creative touch and spark interest. A rug on the floor will warm the floor as well as cut down on noise. Try to choose a geometric pattern with compatible colors. This way, the rug or runner becomes a work of art decorating the floor. Something as simple as a Mexican blanket may also be used on the floor for an unusual look. A very important area to consider when creating your southwest bedroom is the window treatment. For restful sleep, light blocking measures should be taken. Colorfully woven draperies with blackout backing are ideal. The use of mini blinds combined with solid colored sheers can be a success also. Use complementing colors, taking care to match the room‘s color scheme. 

Another key element for calming and clearing the mind is the use of a small fountain on a nightstand. The soft flowing sound of the water helps to put even the most high strung insomniac into a peaceful slumber. The final completing touches that make your southwest bedroom go from ordinary to extraordinary are the accent pieces you use. Match them to your personality and they are sure to bring pleasure and create a sense of relaxation. Hand picked items such as a kiva ladder, hand painted hides, wrought iron lamps with leather lampshades, pottery, throw pillows, baskets and artwork, either sculptured or painted, are just a few ideas you may decide to import into you special room. Surround yourself with thing you love and be ready to experience a southwest bedroom of your dreams.

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