How Native American Culture Has Shaped Interior Design

The Native American culture is a rich and vibrant one that’s full of color and incredible architecture. It has contributed so much to modern American culture, in ways that we fail to recognize. Modern interior design has borrowed a lot from the past and has taken some great inspiration from cultures all over the world. Everyone wants their home to feel unique and welcoming to them. Our living spaces are crafted to our desires by ourselves or sometimes, interior designers. We have often looked towards Native American culture to gain inspiration to make our homes, apartments, and condos comfy and cozy. 

The Architecture 

From patterns to architecture, many homes take a lot of design inspiration from Native American cultures. Native Americans were the first people to build in the land here in America, so naturally, they played a big part in how we build our homes. Native Americans in New Mexico were known for building adobe houses that have withstood decades, and sometimes even centuries. There are adobe houses still standing that date all the way back to the 16th century. They set the standard as to how to build a home for the dry and hot climate of New Mexico.

These homes were typically made of adobe, which comprised of sand, clay, straw, and water. They were very sturdy and influences of this can be seen in modern homes through stucco and the use of roof beams. You can also see the influence in the shape of modern homes. Many modern houses are square or rectangular in shape with flat roofing. These homes allow for heat to remain outside of the house during the day, and kept inside at night. This style of architecture has become synonymous with the southwest and has stood the test of time against the dryness and heat. 

Fabrics and Weaving

Many Native American cultures have introduced weaving techniques and unique fabrics, that were then very useful and practical, but now are mostly used for aesthetic and decorative purposes. Woven textiles have been used to make baskets with eccentric patterns on them and various pieces of fabric that have been used as tapestries and blankets. Weaving and fabrics have become very popular in modern southwestern style interior design. They allow for an earthier feel that’s welcoming and inviting. Typically made of wool, weaved fabrics are very strong and can last for years and years. Weaving can also be done with plants and is typically applied to weaving baskets. 

Baskets and blankets can also have a variety of patterns weaved into them. These patterns seem to be integrated into the natural weaving pattern of the fabric. The patterns are very angular, linear, and triangular in shape. These pieces of fabric can be both functional or just purely for aesthetic purposes. Many times, these pieces of fabric are hung up on walls so that they can be displayed as their own pieces of art to be viewed and admired. They are a great addition to any home, apartment, or condo. 

Patterns and Natural Materials

You see Native American inspired prints and art everywhere. Patterns can be used on almost anything, so it’s natural that Native American inspired patterns would find their way onto almost anything. You can find it on paintings, blankets, pillows, and even entire pieces of furniture. They are colorful and beautiful to look at. 

Leather is a big thing amongst modern interior design. These past few decades, we have been leaning little more towards faux or fake leather, as a more ethical and cost-effective way of achieving the same look like real leather. Leather furniture is long-lasting and looks very chic in any home.

Pottery has also grown very popular over the past decade or two. They are useful for both practical and aesthetic reasons. Many people use them to keep plants alive and just to store whatever they need to store, while also looking appealing in their homes. Native American inspired pottery is found everywhere in the wonderful state of New Mexico and for good reason. It looks great and is probably the most practical thing on this list. 

Native American culture has done a lot to improve and inspire the world of interior design. Whether it’s patterns, fabrics, or pottery, any of the elements listed above would look great in your home. National Furniture Liquidators has plenty of Native American inspired pieces to make your home complete. Call us and see how we can help you make your house a home.