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Top Features of Southwest-Style Homes: What You Need to Know

A southwest-style living room in a home in Las Cruces.

A Southwest-inspired home can bring a lot of culture-inspired architecture and design elements to the property. If you’re looking to design a home in the Southwest, there is no better inspiration than the environment around you. In this article, we will discuss different features that you will find in a Southwest home. 

At Villa Custom Homes, our Southwest style homes in Las Cruces are a beautiful choice for those looking for a durable and affordable option. Our homes stand the test of time with a modern touch. If you want to see our design options, call us at (575)-650-7377 today!

Design Elements

Southwestern homes draw inspiration from Mexican, Pueblo, and Spanish cultures. From Territorial style, Santa Fe style, or Spanish colonial style, there are a lot of beautiful design features to look at when shopping for homes. Not only do these homes incorporate cultural elements, but they can last a long time with the proper maintenance. If you’re looking at Southwest style homes, be on the lookout for the features listed below. 

  • Wood Corbels- This design can be used on either the interior or exterior of a home. Wood corbels are made from a highly durable material that prevents color fading, pest damage, and decay. Because of their durability, they require low maintenance and are UV-ray resistant. 
  • Stacked Stone- Though wood is commonly used in Southwest style homes, stone is a popular choice as well. Using stacked stone as a retaining wall is a unique design element in these homes. The stone can be wrapped around columns or exterior walls as a nice accent look. Fauxstone is recommended due to it being durable and lightweight. 
  • Viga Tails- A viga is a wooden beam that supports the roof. A viga tail is a part of the beam that is visible from the exterior. Though the viga as a whole is a support structure, the protruding tail is for design only. So they aren’t susceptible to rot, it’s recommended to have viga tails that are made of polystyrene. They are typically finished with a thin layer of concrete to make them more durable. 
  • Wood Beams- Visible wooden beams (or wood in general) are a common Southwest style. These beams create a rustic charm that can make a home stand out in its style. Wood beams are usually installed on the exterior in either a front or backyard entryway. 

These listed items are typically found on the outside of a home. However, there are a plethora of indoor design elements that shouldn’t be missed. Search for features such as:

  • Rustic Textures
  • Natural Foundations
  • Handcrafted Decor
  • Natural Lighting
  • Woven Textiles
  • Earthy Tones
  • Southwest Motifs
  • Daring Patterns
  • Fireplaces
  • Clean Line Aesthetics

Southwest Style Homes in Las Cruces

At Villa Custom Homes, our Southwest style homes in Las Cruces are inspired by Spanish textiles, adobe homes, and the desert palette. We also have the materials to make it a greener home if that’s what you’re looking for. To hear design options, call us today at (575)-650-7377!