The Spanish are known for their elaborate architecture, including lots of natural light and religious inspired iron work.

You can add these magical touches to your own home by incorporating today's Southwestern iron work into the existing design.
photo credit: jillclardy

Southwestern iron work, which has been passed down by generations of Hispanic artisans throughout the centuries, dates back to the time when the Spanish inhabited the lower states.

They brought with them the influence from Spain, from clean white buildings with high arched windows and doors to the elaborately formed wrought iron work found everywhere.

Many times, this iron work was imported directly from Spanish churches and buildings and added to the homes built in this area.

This iron work is an integral part of the architecture and it's found everywhere in the Southwest from windows to entranceway's, lending itself as part of the structure of the buildings themselves.

You can add Spanish touches to your home by incorporating Southwestern iron work into the existing design of your home.

Always shop with authentic artisans of the Southwestern United States to get the best products.

Wrought Iron Entry

The entryway is always a nice place to add this touch as it generally has plenty of natural light and traditionally it’s where much of the Southwestern iron work is found in homes. You will want to find a good sized piece of Southwestern iron work, such as a window piece called a "reja" and hang it over a rustic wood table or bench.

Using Iron In Interior Design

Or you may want to move into the living room and add a few pieces of wrought iron above the fireplace.

Another great idea is to use a large piece of iron work as a headboard in the bedroom.

Exterior Iron Decorating

photo credit: piermario

You may want to add some pieces of Southwestern iron work to the outside of your home such as along the tops of the doors, iron balconies for windows or in your Spanish Style Patio.

A Spanish Style Home is essentially a Ranch Style Home - with Spanish Accents. You can use the same Remodeling Ranch Style Homes techniques in both styles.

Just keep the lines clean and let the artwork speak on its own.

The powerful lines of the iron and the religious or spiritual theme alone does all the speaking and will become a beautiful focal point for your home.