Our client sought to create a living room that honors her Caribbean heritage while integrating the artisanal qualities of Southwestern style. Living in the US Southwest, she has a deep appreciation for the region’s design elements and a love for Moorish (Turkish and Moroccan) influences. Here’s how we curated a cohesive and well-thought-out space that beautifully marries these diverse styles.

Inspiration

West Indian Artwork and Warmth:

The main inspiration for this space is an artwork by the client's family member, depicting children running in the streets, reminiscent of her Caribbean childhood.  Given the feeling of warmth & familiarity the client feels towards this piece, we selected a sturdy wooden frame, to complement the art as well as draw attention to the art.

Oversized Jute Rug:

We chose an oversized jute rug in a brown-red color to anchor the room.  This piece would provide warmth as well as provide a tactile experience   reminiscent of the sandy shores of Caribbean beaches.  

 Wallpaper:

A large-scale scallop patterned wallpaper in black on mustard was selected to add depth and character to the walls, creating a striking backdrop that complements the room’s overall tropical theme.

 Furniture:

English Arm Roll Chair: This classic silhouette brings a touch of traditional elegance.

Vintage Bamboo Chippendale Chair: Quintessentially Old-World British Colonial, we recommend upholstering this chair in red and brown animal print to capture the Southwestern essence of an adventurous lifestyle and connection to the land.

 Green Throw Pillows:

To pull in the lush greens of the Caribbean landscape, we opted for throw pillows in forest and verdant green, adding vibrancy and a sense of nature to the space.

 Planter and Palms:

A contemporary stoneware planter inspired by traditional pottery techniques evokes natural aesthetics and rustic charm. Adding hearty and easy-to-maintain palms is essential for authentic Caribbean-inspired decor.

Southwestern Influence

Handmade distressed Pine Wood Coffee Table in soft white and brown tones, this table is finished with hand-hammered ponchos, reflecting the artisanal quality of Southwestern design.

Wool Throw Pillows: In Chimayo patterns, these pillows add a touch of Southwestern charm.

Moorish Influence

 Moroccan Mirror:

To complement the Moorish influence of the Turkish floor lamp, we added an arched traditional wood Moroccan mirror featuring hand-selected bone pieces and copper. This mirror is a perfect fusion of natural and industrial elements.

 Metal Side Table:

In antique gold, reminiscent of Moorish architecture, this side table adds a touch of elegance but is every bit of a functional piece.

 Hand-Hooked Rug:

This 100% wool rug features a rich, earthy color palette in deep greens, cream, navy blue, with accents of red and gold. Its transitional style combines heirloom motifs, geometric medallions, and floral designs, creating a timeless and classic appeal.

 Ambient Lighting:

The room is crowned with Asian-inspired metal ginkgo leaf fans and concealed candlelights, providing perfect ambient lighting and a unique design element.

Bringing It All Together

 In this living room, we leaned heavily into honest materials to capture the essence of West Indian, Southwestern, and Moorish styles. The result is a harmonious blend of these influences, creating a space that feels both personal and cohesive. This room is a testament to the client’s heritage, love for travel, and appreciation for artisanal craftsmanship.

 By thoughtfully integrating these diverse elements, we created a living room that is both functional and stylish, reflecting the client’s unique tastes and cultural background. This space not only serves as a comfortable living area but also as a celebration of her heritage and eclectic style.