Tropical Mexican Styles

• There is the Mexican Caribbean style of bright whites and cool blues, reminiscent of Playa del Carmen's white sand beaches. Then there is the earthier style, seen in beach palapa huts and houses on the Yucatan Peninsula, featuring red roof tiles, bold colors, Saltillo tile terracotta floors and plenty of greenery. Some people love the hacienda look of fountains, statuary, tile murals and big covered porches for outdoor dining.
  
  

Tropical Mexican Walls, Floors and Textiles

• In tropical Mexican decor, the walls are bold. Whether they are bright white stucco for reflecting the sun or antiqued, distressed washes with layers of color, they typically feature niches, pedestals and other architectural elements. Floors are never carpeted, but there may be grass mats or handmade throw rugs in doorways or to help define open spaces. In beach houses, curtains are translucent and made of thin material to allow breezes to flow through and sunlight to pour in. Throw pillows, bedding, towels and blankets may feature little handmade touches like embroidery trim.
  
  

Tropical Mexican Furnishings and Accessories

• Mexico has a wealth of handicrafts that look ideal in a tropical Mexican decor. Several areas, including the Oaxacan coast and the Yucatan Peninsula, sell handmade hammocks great for the porch, deck and garden. Hand-painted chairs, featuring tropical themes of parrots, coconuts, jungle vines and palm leaves, add rich color and style. Remember to get cobalt blue glasses and a pitcher for margaritas or lemonade. Talavera tile, made in Puebla, looks beautiful on vases, trivets, plates and serving dishes. Big pieces of pottery can serve as artwork, vases or even umbrella stands. Bright baskets are ideal for hiding clutter.