Mexican Culture in Interior Design

The answer lies deep in its deep-rooted culture. While Mexico has had a tremendous transformation in recent years, smaller communities remain crucial in keeping the country vibrant. The start of Mexican culture dates to the Aztec and Mayan people, who controlled most of Central America and the Spanish, whose colonisation further influenced Mexican tradition and culture. Mexican cultural elements include clay pottery, embroidered cotton garments, shawls, angular designs, baskets and rugs. Some other traditions are silver smithing, mosaics, textiles, pottery and basket weaving. This article will discuss how Mexicans show their culture in the interior space.

Bold Colors

What makes Mexican design stand out is mainly the use of bold colours. Mexican design embraces vibrant colours to bring out the happiness of a space. From colonised buildings to local art, colours can be seen everywhere. The colours used are oranges, reds, yellows and blues. They balance the space by using neutral-coloured sofas so that space does not drain the users. The Mexican landscape inspires the usage of colours for a welcoming atmosphere.

Variety of textiles

Mexican textiles are known for their diversity, whether hand weaving or embroidery. Various colours and patterns are used. The tribes Mixtec and Nahua are from the city of Oaxaca and are known for their beautiful weaving. These textiles from Oaxaca show symbols that reflect the indigenous traditions. The intricate pattern design can also be seen in Serapes, traditionally worn by Mexican men but used as upholstery and curtains in Mexican homes. These textiles are used on pillows to give an accent touch. Another pattern is the Otomi pattern, which is playful and vibrant and best used in children’s spaces; these patterns are seen on blankets and lampshades.

Rustic Materials

Rustic looks can be seen all over Mexico, whether in homes or restaurants, and are brought out through different materials like terracotta, wood and wooden beams, wrought iron, and clay. Terracotta is used in patios and balconies of Mexican homes as pots and has different shapes and sizes. Terracotta tiles were taken from the Spanish colonisation and used in interior and exterior spaces; these tiles come in various shapes and sizes, like squares, diamonds and hexagons. Clay pots are also often hand-painted and are used for décor, while some houses use adobe, which is sun-dried clay bricks that provide natural insulation while providing a rustic look. On the other hand, wrought iron was used in lighting fixtures like chandeliers, furniture, headboards for window and door grilles, and stair railings and gates. This wrought iron was primarily due to the Spanish colonisation, and over the Mexican blacksmith developed various ironworking styles, making it a key feature in Mexican interiors.

Tiles

Tiles are the most important part of Mexican culture and are the heart of many houses. Mexican tiles go back to pre-Columbian times, specifically the Aztecs and Mayans; they made decorative clay tiles, but the most well-known tiles are the Talavera tiles, which the Spanish colonisation introduced. The Spanish brought in the techniques to create these tiles, which is still a tradition in Mexico. Talavera is the most famous in Mexican culture. It is made from red clay and is hand-painted. The usual colours are cobalt blue, yellow-green, red, black and white. These designs are usually floral, geometric, or Moorish-style patterns and are used as backsplashes in kitchens, bathroom walls, and stairs. Tiles like these are also used in churches and colonial buildings. Apart from being unique, these tiles are durable, timeless and eco-friendly.

Art and Decorative accents

Another central element of Mexican interiors is the handcrafted decorative elements, which create a warm and lively atmosphere. These crafted items usually tell a story; one example is the Alebrijes, brightly painted animals made of paper mache. These figures have exaggerated features and originate from Oaxaca, representing mystical creatures. Papel Picado are paper banners used for decoration during a festival and often include flowers, birds and geometric designs. Huichol art came from the indigenous people and is vibrant, intricate beadwork used as wall art and sculptures. 

Wooden Accents

Wood plays a central role in Mexican interiors, bringing warmth, textures and tradition to our homes. The traditional Mexican woodworking techniques are hand-carving, embossing and painting. They are used as carvings in furniture like tables, bed frames, and chairs, which are usually floral, animal or geometric; hardware such as studs and handles are also styled. Wooden doors are also carved and are often painted in vibrant colours. Wooden beams are used for a rustic effect, giving a space a warm and traditional feel. Wooden columns and archways were used in the Spanish colonisation to separate open spaces and rooms while adding elegance.

Mexican interior design is a fusion of history, craftsmanship and culture; every element has its own story and a sense of hospitality. These elements perfectly represent Mexico’s rich cultural values and bring the communities and families together.

References:

1. Zimmermann, K.A., Gordon, J. and Bradford, A. (2022) Mexican culture: Customs and traditions, LiveScience. Available at: https://www.livescience.com/38647-mexican-culture.html 
2. Martin, C. (2022) 7 elements for Mexican inspired design, The Good Abode. Available at: https://www.thegoodabode.com/post/elements-for-mexican-inspired-design 
3. Around the world in interior design: Mexico (no date) Pooky Lighting. Available at: https://www.pooky.com/blogs/inspiration/around-the-world-in-interior-design-mexico 

Image References:

1. Vibrant Mexican interiors_wsucm (Website) https://www.wsucm.store/?path=page/ggitem&ggpid=2319670 
2. Vibrant Mexican Textiles_iStock (Website) https://www.istockphoto.com/photo/colorful-vibrant-floral-patterned-mexican-fabric-for-sale-gm1362278534-434281983 
3. Rustic Interiors_HGTV (Website) https://hgtv.co.uk/inspiration/what-is-mexican-interior-design/ 
4. Various Talavera tile_Ubuy (Website) https://www.istockphoto.com/photos/mexican-textiles 
5. Alebrijes Monument in Mexico_Mexicotravel.blog (Website) https://mexicotravel.blog/what-are-alebrijes/ 
6. Carved Mexican Furniture_Spaish Furniture (Website) https://mexicanfurniturehacienda.com/project/carved-furniture-2/