Karen McCartney finds inspiration in the rich textures and warm palette of Mexican-inspired style.



What better way to honour the genius of Mexican artist Frida Kahlo than surround her portrait with decorative objects of Mexican origin. By restricting the tonal range to deep reds and silver the arrangement takes on the feel of an art installation. Image via Free People. (Right) At the Hotel Casa Lecanda in Mérida, the detailing in the traditional tiled floor and the linear timber treatment in the ceiling effectively draw the eye along the space. Furniture is kept simple in form and white in colour so as not to compete with the flourish of the central light fitting.



There is something achingly beautiful about the combination of ancient doors, their colour faded by time, tiles that subtly echo their colour, flowering plants and the addition of soft diffused light. If ever there was a combination of elements that called you to be there - this is it. Image by Brydie Mack.(Right) In a simple rustic room the inclusion of a massive tiled bed head creates a highly decorative wall, acting as a room divider while adding colour and pattern. Image by Andrea Ferrari.



There is something so right about this chrome-based chair, in its concrete context, covered in the traditional stripe of a Mexican blanket. Other quirky pieces of furniture and lighting give this hotel the feeling of personality and character. | Photo by Adrian Gaut for The Line Hotel, LA. (Right) This photograph shows just how little you need to create a really great fresh bedroom look. The bleached floorboards, classic iron bedstead and artisan timber side table all play a supporting role to the indigo striped perfection of a simple Mexican throw. Image via Urban Outfitters.



The classic tones of Mexico are showcased on this rust painted wall with a timber barn-style doors contrasting in a wash-out celadon. The interesting decorative touch is the playful row of straw hats arranged above a small outdoor console. (Right) There is something very evocative about a stairway that has been so thoughtfully tiled in soft shades of green. The decorative touch is all the more marked because it is enclosed by unadorned walls of concrete and curves appealingly - drawing the eye to a new vista. Image by Zena Woron Quinn.



I have always loved the idea of casually throwing a blanket over a table as a sort of outdoor table cloth. The deep red works well as a shot of colour in this natural context with the circular form of the table echoed in the softly rounded arch. (Right) The detailed patterns and subtle shifts in colour in these textiles are remarkable. This picture showcases a range of intricate treatments that would look great as floor covering, throws, or cushions. Unless you are decoratively brave, just stick to one bold piece.

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