Four décor trends from four fabulous Southern cities
When you think of the South, what comes to mind?
That will probably depend on where you are, but coastal waters, gauzy fabrics, soulful music and cold drinks are all top contenders.
There are so many classic and glamorous décor ideas that can inspire you, whether you live in Savannah or Seattle.
Gorgeous Lazy Verandas From Charleston, South Carolina
Cool breezes, the perfect amount of shade and the right outdoor furnishings are all you need to create a space that you will want to live in full time, at the height of summer.
Light, gauzy drapes give a hint of privacy to an otherwise open space and also the impression of coolness as they flutter in the breeze. If you can, opt for an outdoor swing chair, or if you have the space, what about a swing bed? Soft pillows and a throw for when the evening air chills you, a good book and … peace and quiet.
Ideal for this space is a rolling drinks cart, for when guests pop in unexpectedly, with extra bench seating handily placed where the view is best.
Colonial Delights From Key West, Florida
When we think of Key West, we think of laid back style combined with colonial touches. Your home can feel tropical and light with just a few easy décor ideas.
Light, fluid colors, inspired by nature are ideal—natural blue, green, yellow and whites / off whites— are gorgeous as the background to dark wood and leather pieces. The contrast is eye-catching. The dark wood is necessary to add gravitas and anchor an otherwise airy feel, and typifies the Spanish coastal influence.
Similarly, window coverings in opaque shades and translucent fabrics allow essential light to come through while maintaining privacy. The snow in upper New York State can’t bother you in your tropical paradise if you can’t see it 😉
French Inspired Beauty From New Orleans, Louisiana
Two things that personify the French Quarter are shutters and French doors.
If you want to give your home an immediate touch à la Française, you can’t go wrong by adding either of these two additions. Delicate wrought iron railings on the porch or on a Juliette balcony is also a gorgeous touch.
Inside, beautiful stone tiling—either on the floor or in other spaces like backsplashes and bathrooms—is quintessentially French. Silk curtains for your windows in warm shades provides another beautiful accent.
Our advice? Go Louis XIV in your dining room with an elegant table and upholstered chairs to welcome your guests in elegant comfort.
Ornamental, almost rococo chandeliers complete the look, along with sturdy yet embellished console tables and cabinets to add a touch of fancy to the room.
Terroir Inspired Décor From Napa Valley, California
Just the name Napa inspires visions of ridiculously good food, impeccable wines and the laughter of friends and family gathered around an outdoor table.
Natural vineyard colors dominate this style of décor, on the lighter end of the spectrum. Think: beautiful dining room sets in light, almost blonde, shades of wood and minimalist chairs that shift your guests’ focus entirely to what is on the table.
Ivy greens and gentle florals are perfect complements to this design style, whether through upholstery or window coverings.
Of course, you can’t go wrong by including all the shades of wine, from a light Sauvignon Blanc through a yellow Chardonnay, a peony colored Rosé or dramatic dark red Pinot Noir. Whatever your choices, the vineyards inspire earthy yet elegant design.
Do you have a favorite design inspired by a Southern city? Have you designed your home based on the décor of a southern clime? Tell us!