Marvelous Mexican

The Kitchen Connection

Freda Kahlo, the famous Mexican artist, had a favorite spot in her home. The spacious kitchen which opened into the courtyard behind the house her father built in Mexico, remained a place of comfort and connection to the often troubled artist.

There is something about the kitchen that evokes a sense of closeness to family and this is especially prevalent in the Mexican kitchen. Bright, clear colors displayed with abandon in the form of pottery, ceramics, tiles and textiles, vie for the attention of the eyes that survey the space. Open and airy, functional and busy, this kitchen calls people to join together over simmering sauces and hearty laughter.

That's Some Spicy Tamale!

If you are thinking that hot sauce and spice are missing from your life, this just may be the right décor for your kitchen to satisfy that yearning.

The walls of the Mexican kitchen are usually stucco and if your walls are stucco, you're ahead. If not, adding texture to the paint with rags or sponges works well. Color is the key to Mexican style and it makes a huge difference to the end result. Hot colors like sunflower yellow, red or bright blue on one, three or all four walls, combined with white or contrasting colors on the trim will set the stage for your Mexican kitchen. If painting the walls with bright colors scares you, then go for a neutral shade and use the floor and furniture as color bearers. Hanging bright, native paintings and wall hangings, platters and pottery plates or wrought iron shelves to hold décor items will take the walls from tame to terrific without painting them.

The Excitement Is In The Small Things

Colorful ceramic and pottery bowls, dishes and serving pieces are easy complements to the look. Mexican textiles, rugs, wall hangings, tablecloths and napkins continue the feeling. A huge clay pot with a small tree or plant is also a common sight in such a kitchen.

Rustic furniture is the favorite for this kitchen. Don't worry if the table and chairs don't match, it really isn't necessary. Paint them in a variety of bright colors or use items that have a painted distress finish, which is closer to reality. Extra chairs just seem to be part of the design and are found placed in corners or against a wall.

Don't Shut Out The Light

Cover the windows with shutters or use a valance that is painted to look distressed. If using fabric for window coverings, remember to keep it light and natural, allowing the maximum amount of light into the kitchen. Heavy fabrics, drapes or modern shades don't fit well with this style of décor.

Fill your colorful bowls with fruit, tomatoes, garlic and onions and include a rack full of wonderful spices and you've created your very own Mexican energy center.