Behind the Design

Hacienda Styling for Everyday Living

February 1, 2018

Hacienda is a Spanish word for an estate. Historically speaking, many original haciendas were plantations, mines or factories. In modern times, we can create the feeling of a classic hacienda in our every day homes by incorporating certain colors, furniture, and home accessories.

For the interior, the preferred colors are subdued natural tones such as beige, burnt sienna, dark orange, brown and earthy red. Floors are stone, clay tile or brick, with minimal covering by area rugs. The traditional ceiling of a hacienda displays exposed wooden beams joined by whitewashed plaster. Heavy wooden doors and tall, vertical window casements are common elements drawn from colonial style.

Spanish colonial interiors were often sparse yet were filled with elaborate furniture such as wardrobes, desks, chairs and bookcases that were tough and heavy. The dark tones of the wood can be set off with silver candlesticks and bright tabletop accents and wall decorations.

For accents such as rugs and pillows, bright colors such as red, yellow and orange in bold geometric designs provide contrast to the floors and walls. Woven throws and blankets are common items decorating comfortable places to lounge.

Painted Talavera pottery can be set up in corners and areas with less traffic. Tropical plants, cacti and desert flowers also work in a Mexican-style home, as do drying herbs, peppers and garlic in kitchens and dining areas.

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