When you’re designing your home, it’s natural to want it to reflect your personality.
But did you know where you live can have just as much of an impact on your decor choices?
From the materials you choose to the colors you use, the region you call home often plays a big role in how you decorate.
Climate and geography don’t just shape your environment—they influence how homes are built and styled, too.
By understanding how regional styles tie into climate, you can make informed choices that enhance both the beauty and functionality of your space.
Whether you live in the snowy Midwest, the sunny Southwest, or somewhere in between, adapting your decor to your region can make your home feel even more like, well, home.
Climate’s Role in Shaping Home Decor
Climate affects almost every aspect of home design. It impacts the materials we use, the layouts we prefer, and even the colors that dominate our interiors.
Homes in colder regions prioritize warmth and insulation, while those in warmer areas emphasize airflow and lightness.
For instance, in regions with cold winters, heavy drapes, layered rugs, and dark, warm tones are common decor choices because they help create a cozy atmosphere.
On the other hand, in sunny, hot climates, people often lean toward breathable fabrics, lighter colors, and open layouts to make their spaces feel airy and cool.
No matter where you live, designing your home with the climate in mind can help you create a space that’s not only stylish but also practical.
The Midwest: Embracing Warmth and Practicality
Rising housing costs in urban and coastal areas are leading more people to move to upper, colder states where home prices are more affordable. With Minnesota mortgage rates being among the most competitive in the country and often falling below the national average, the state has become an attractive option for homebuyers.
This affordability makes it easier for families and DIY enthusiasts to invest in larger properties and pursue their dream home decor projects.
The Midwest’s cold winters and varying seasons heavily influence its decor trends. Homes here embrace warm, cozy aesthetics, often featuring rustic and farmhouse styles.
Elements like reclaimed wood, layered textiles, and earth tones create spaces that feel both inviting and practical. DIYers can easily bring this charm to life by installing shiplap accent walls or crafting furniture from thrifted wood.
Living in a state like Minnesota means having the room to make your home exactly what you want.
Whether you’re adding a mudroom to combat snowy winters or designing a cozy family room, the Midwest’s affordability and charm make it a top choice for homebuyers.
Coastal Styles: Light, Airy, and Relaxed
Coastal decor takes inspiration from the beach, with a focus on light, breezy designs and ocean-inspired colors.
Popular elements include natural materials like weathered wood, rattan, and linen, along with a color palette of whites, blues, and sandy beiges. These elements create a laid-back vibe that perfectly matches the relaxed pace of coastal living.
If you’re drawn to coastal decor, consider incorporating DIY projects into your home. For instance, you could create a driftwood mirror or make nautical-style rope accents for curtain ties. These small touches can bring the beach to your space, even if you’re miles from the ocean.
Coastal styles work especially well in homes with lots of natural light. If you have large windows, take advantage of them by keeping window treatments simple and airy. Light, sheer curtains can let the sunshine in while maintaining a sense of privacy.
The Bold and Earthy Southwest
The Southwest is all about bold, earthy vibes inspired by its dry, sunny climate. Terracotta, leather, and stone are common materials, while vibrant geometric patterns and pops of turquoise bring energy to the space.
Decor here reflects the rugged beauty of the desert, blending natural elements with colorful accents.
DIYers can easily incorporate Southwest-inspired decor into their homes. Try using stencils to create an accent wall with bold patterns, or add succulents in handcrafted pots for a touch of greenery. Terracotta planters or leather throw pillows can also add texture and warmth to your space.
The Southwest’s decor style is bold but grounded, making it a great choice for anyone who loves vibrant yet natural designs.
The Pacific Northwest: Green, Rustic, and Modern
Known for its lush landscapes and rainy climate, the Pacific Northwest has a decor style that emphasizes sustainability and rustic charm. Homes in this region often feature earthy tones, sustainable materials, and large windows that bring the outdoors in. Think natural wood furniture, stone accents, and lots of greenery.
DIY enthusiasts in the Pacific Northwest might enjoy building a vertical herb garden or creating eco-friendly furniture pieces from reclaimed wood.
These projects not only reflect the region’s love for sustainability but also add a unique, personal touch to your home.
The Pacific Northwest style strikes a balance between modern minimalism and rustic warmth, making it a favorite for those who appreciate understated elegance.
Tips for Blending Regional Styles with Personal Preferences
While regional styles are a great starting point, your home should ultimately reflect your personal taste. It’s possible to combine elements from different styles to create a space that feels uniquely yours.
If you live in a colder climate but love coastal decor, try incorporating lighter curtains or sandy-colored accents into your space.
Similarly, if you’re drawn to the bold patterns of the Southwest but live in the Midwest, you can add a vibrant rug or colorful throw pillows to your otherwise rustic decor.
Mixing and matching regional influences allows you to create a home that’s practical for your environment while staying true to your individual style.
When designing your home, it’s important to think about both form and function. Regional decor trends, shaped by climate and geography, offer inspiration that’s as practical as it is beautiful. The Midwest, with its cozy, practical charm, is a great example of how location can influence design.
Wherever you live, your home should be a reflection of you. By incorporating regional influences and personal touches, you can create a space that’s both stylish and perfectly suited to your needs.
So, whether you’re adding a rustic accent wall, a beachy rope mirror, or a vertical garden, let your creativity shine—and make your dream home a reality.