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Mexican Talavera

mexican talavera ceramic and potteryTalavera is the term used to describe faithful reproductions of the china and pottery that is made in the Spanish village of Talavera de la Reina, whose craftsmen have made tremendous contributions to the world’s knowledge of fine ceramics down through the centuries.

Talavera pottery itself is a form of Majolica, which refers to all types of handmade enameled earthenware. It was first developed in ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt and was further refined in China where it became very popular. The craft came into use in Spain by the Thirteenth Century, where its development was heavily influenced by centuries of Moorish domination.

Within Mexico, this style dates back to the 16th century colonial era when it was first introduced to Mexico by Spanish guild artisans. Thus today, Mexican Talavera reflects the diverse cultural heritage inherited from the Orient, the Italian Renaissance, the Moors, Spain and the indigenous people of Mexico. Visit finecraftsimports.com for more Mexican Talavera home decor accessories.

Spanish Revival Architecture Styles

Spanish Revival Architecture is probably one of the most striking features of the erstwhile Spanish colonies that are there in the world. Although there may not be many homes currently here that dates back to this period, several architects also model their homes according to this distinct style of architecture. One of the most notable things that can be found in homes of this style is the presence of a large amount of hand painted tiles with rich pastel colors which are a trade mark of this design and is very Mediterranean in its influence. Architecture of the Spanish Revival style has several smaller elements to it and in fact this movement actually took so much wind that it lead to a consequent event which was known as the Florida Renaissance in the USA. There are also homes of such nature that are found in a lot of other places too and real estate is really popular among probable buyers. Check with real estate agents who do indeed deal in homes like this and find the plane which will suite you. Homes like this do indeed come in large sizes and they are generally above the mark of 3000 sq feet if not more. Get more facts on home styles and decor at http://www.higherhopedecor.com.

4 Keys to Southwestern Home Decor: Palette, Furniture, Fabric, and Accents

Mixteco Zapoteco Wool Mexican Handwoven RugsMexican or Southwest decor epitomizes a style that goes beyond borders. This warm, rustic style of old Mexico and the U.S. Southwest has become increasingly popular for its ability to provide a comfortable, relaxing ambiance. For those who have come to appreciate the importance of our home surroundings in offering a haven from the pressure and hectic pace outside, this style can be particularly effective.

The four keys to Southwestern decor are found in the colors, furniture, textiles, and accents that evoke the natural landscape and the human history of the region. Gone are industrial high tech materials and designs in favor of leather, wood, terra cotta, ceramic, and such. The mix of earthy tones and natural materials, often hand worked, punctuated by bright woven textiles and beautiful handcrafts, creates a surprisingly livable blend of calm and energy. Visit www.mez-decor.com for more home decor.

(1) Color Scheme: Your color palette starts with walls and floors with neutral desert tones (think sand!), or perhaps pale cactus green or the softest adobe pink or cream, and rich terra cotta. These neutral tones serve as a perfect foil for the splashes of primary yellow, turquoise, and sunset orange that lend that southwestern touch.

(2) Low Tech Furniture. If you’ve always wanted leather, consider collecting pieces of equipal furniture. Complement them with knotty pine tables and chairs, some with rush or leather seats or painted frames, Choose rustic metal knobs pulls or other accents that reveal the human touch. An advantage of this style is that the well-built pieces will withstand years of heavy use.

(3) Natural Fabrics. Think fiesta! Find gaily-colored woven throws and pillows the above colors that automatically elicit smiles and positive energy. The traditional striped serape wool capes can easily be transformed into curtains, pillows, and other coverings to pull the look together. Handwoven wool rugs with natural dyes and indigenous themes instantly become conversation pieces, whether used as throws, on the floor or as wall tapestries.

(4) Rustic Accents. Continue the theme by adding light with Mexican tin mirrors and rustic light sconces. Some carefully selected Talavera pottery and hand painted ceramic tiles will give your home an individualized touch that lifts it out of the ordinary, as will other Mexican and indigenous handicrafts, from figurines to bowls, and even a well-placed cactus in a hand thrown pot.