4 Essential Elements For A Tulum-Inspired Patio

You've possibly visited, and have certainly heard of, Tulum, the fast-growing Mexican resort hotspot where beach meets jungle and ancient Mayan ruins abound. The city draws tourists not just for its white sand beaches and turquoise waters but for its laid-back, bohemian vibe. And while you might be able to travel to Tulum only every so often, there's no reason you can't infuse some of that quintessential boho aesthetic into your living space. The best place to start? Your patio or outdoor area, perfect for both lounging and hosting.

Tulum-inspired decor is characterized by neutral color palettes, such as on rugs; natural materials, like wood, rattan, stone, and linen; boho touches; and lush greenery. While items that fall into these categories can be purchased from a variety of retailers, you might want to consider getting some products from shops that feature and support Mexican artisans, including Nakawe Trading (these macrame curtains – wow), Ensamble Artesano, and Obakki.

The best place to start your Tulum-inspired patio transformation is on the ground. An area rug will pull the whole space together and act as a jump-off point to inspire the rest of your decor. Consider something earthy, like this Safavieh rug from Amazon, made from natural fibers, or for a funkier option, consider something with a simple black-and-white pattern, like this Shimeek mat from Wayfair, which is both waterproof and reversible.

Next up, add natural elements like bamboo or rattan. These are commonly found in wicker-style decor, which can be incorporated as an accessory, like these handmade pendant lights from Lighting-Forest. It can also serve as the main statement piece in a room, such as this luxe sectional sofa from West Elm.

Tulum is green and lush, so plants are a must for your patio, and the more the better. There are several options for plants that are easy to keep alive, like palms, which lend themselves to the tropical vibe, and pothos ivy, which you can hang from the ceiling (in a wicker basket, perhaps?), or string some of its long vines along the wall. When deciding on planters, look for something aligned with the earthy vibe, like those made from terracotta. 

Lastly, add some bohemian touches. One of the easiest ways to do this is with decorative throw pillows, like these from Ramble & Roam, which would be perfect with their tassels and texture. You can also opt for woven decor, like this stunning wall hanging from Nakawe Trading.