Mountain Home Decorating Ideas

By Interior Designer TRACY SVENDSEN | Published on September 25, 2020 | Updated on April 27, 2025 |

Mountain Home Decorating Ideas: Step into the serenity of the mountains without leaving your home. Embrace the natural charm and tranquility of mountain living with these inspiring home decorating ideas. From rugged earth tones to cozy cabin aesthetics, there are endless ways to infuse your space with the rugged beauty of the mountains.

Imagine snuggling up in a living room adorned with warm, woodsy accents or gathering around a dining table that evokes the rustic appeal of a mountain lodge. With the right decor, you can effortlessly capture the essence of the great outdoors within your own four walls.

Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, an urban dweller craving a retreat, or simply someone who appreciates the allure of mountain-inspired design, these decorating ideas will elevate your space. Get ready to bring the soul-soothing ambiance of the mountains home and create an environment that speaks to your adventurous spirit and love for nature. Feature image above courtesy of Jeffrey Dungan Architects

Mountain Chic in Cashiers | Francie Hargrove Design
Image courtesy of Flower Mag

Embracing the Mountain Aesthetic

Infusing your home with a mountain-inspired aesthetic goes beyond decorating with nature-themed elements. It’s about capturing the essence of the mountains – the rugged terrain, the serene beauty, and the cozy, welcoming atmosphere. To achieve this, consider incorporating elements that mimic the natural allure of mountain living.

Start by integrating earthy textures, natural materials, and rustic accents that evoke the spirit of the mountains. Think about the warmth of reclaimed wood, the rugged appeal of stone, and the inviting softness of wool and faux fur. By embracing these elements, you can create a space that feels like a mountain retreat, offering a peaceful sanctuary from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Balancing rugged charm and cozy comfort is essential when embracing the mountain aesthetic. Aim for a design that feels natural and inviting, allowing you to experience the tranquility of the mountains.

Luxury Mountain Home
Image courtesy of Eden Luxury Homes

How to Decorate a Mountain Home

When you think of a home in the mountains, the first image that comes to mind is a rustic log home or cabin. Yet, mountain homes can also be modern and contemporary. Regardless of your design style, there are a few things to consider when designing a mountain home.

First, you want to incorporate natural elements into your decor, such as wood, stone, and other materials commonly found in the mountains. You also want to consider the color palette you use. 

Earthy tones like brown, green, and blue work well in a mountain home. Another essential factor to consider is the use of texture. Adding texture to your decor can help create a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Be sure to incorporate area rugs, throw pillows, and other textiles. Regardless of your design style, there are a few things to consider when designing a mountain home.

Cozy Living Room with Warm Tones
Image courtesy of HGTV

1. Bringing the Outdoors In: Nature-Inspired Decor

One of the key aspects of mountain-inspired home decorating is bringing the outdoors in. Nature-inspired decor plays a crucial role in creating a space that reflects the beauty of the mountains. Consider incorporating elements like botanical prints, wildlife motifs, and landscape artwork to infuse your home with natural wonder.

Incorporating natural elements like driftwood, river rocks, and live plants can also help blur the lines between indoor and outdoor spaces, further enhancing the mountain-inspired ambiance. Integrating these organic elements allows you to seamlessly transition from the natural world outside to the comfort of your interior space.

To truly capture the essence of the mountains, consider adding elements like antler decor, pinecone accents, and wildlife-themed textiles. These details can add a touch of wilderness to your home, creating a space rooted in the untamed beauty of the great outdoors.

Mountain Home with Earth Tone Colors
Image courtesy of Amber Interiors

2. Consider the View

Mountain homes typically feature large picture windows that allow homeowners and guests to take full advantage of stunning mountain vistas. Large windows frame the views and provide natural light throughout the home. 

To make the most of these spectacular views, leave the windows uncovered or use a rolling natural fiber to block out the sun and create privacy. Make furniture choices with these views in mind—think neutrals in the dining room to complement the mountains and greens in the master to match the forest.

RH Ski House
Image courtesy of Business Wire

3. Keep it Warm and Inviting

A snowy mountain retreat should be cozy and inviting, with a roaring fire, earth-tone colors, plush fabrics, and unique artwork. The best way to achieve this is by layering textures. Think upholstery, area rugs, throw pillows, blankets, and window treatments. These components create a room you’d like to relax in.

Soft layers don’t only work to create a cozy space; they also work to soften the acoustics. Use local materials such as timber and stone that instantly create a homey feel.

Search for textiles with texture, such as a chunky knit throw, rough wooden surfaces, and deep pile area rugs. Texture comes from various sources – from soft fabrics and textiles to harder materials like wood and stone.

Also, add texture through natural materials such as seagrass, leather, and linen. Effective layering includes everything from textiles (pillows, area rugs, throws), lighting (overhead, table lamps, ambient features), furniture (sofas, chairs, coffee tables, accent tables), wall hangings (artwork, mirrors, photos), wall treatments (paint, wallpaper) and décor (vases, floral arrangements, books).

Mountain Home Decorating Ideas
Image courtesy of West of Main

4. Color Palette: Earthy Tones and Cool Blues

When it comes to mountain-inspired home decorating, the color palette is pivotal in setting the tone for your space. Embrace earthy tones such as warm browns, rich greens, and deep grays to evoke the rugged beauty of the mountains. These colors can create a sense of grounding and connection to nature, infusing your space with a serene, earthy ambiance.

Incorporating cool blues and misty grays can also mimic the tranquil hues of mountain lakes and misty peaks, adding calming serenity to your decor. Consider using these colors for accent walls, throw pillows, and artwork to infuse your space with a refreshing and tranquil vibe.

To create a harmonious balance, mix these earthy and cool tones with touches of creamy whites and warm neutrals. This blend of colors can evoke a mountain landscape’s peaceful harmony, creating a cozy and expansive space.

Mountain Home Decorating Ideas
Image courtesy of Locati Architects

5. Art and Décor: Showcasing Nature’s Beauty

Art and decor play a crucial role in capturing the beauty of the mountains within your home. Look for artwork that showcases the natural allure of mountain landscapes, wildlife, and flora. Consider incorporating landscape paintings, wildlife photography, and nature-themed prints to infuse your space with wonder and tranquility.

In addition to artwork, consider incorporating decor elements like botanical arrangements, natural stone sculptures, and wildlife figurines to add a touch of organic elegance to your space. These details help create a sense of connection to the natural world, further enhancing the mountain-inspired ambiance.

When selecting art and decor, aim for pieces that reflect the mountains’ rugged beauty and timeless allure. Look for items that evoke a sense of adventure, serenity, and natural wonder, allowing you to create a space that feels both inspired and inviting.

6. Textures and Fabrics: Cozy and Rustic

The textures and fabrics you choose can significantly impact the overall feel of your mountain-inspired space. Embrace cozy, rustic materials like knitted blankets, faux fur throws, and plush area rugs to create a sense of warmth and comfort. These textures can evoke the cozy ambiance of a mountain cabin, inviting you to unwind and relax in your home.

Natural materials like leather, weathered wood, and rough-hewn textiles can add a rugged charm to your decor, enhancing the mountain-inspired aesthetic. Consider layering different textures to create depth and visual interest, infusing your space with tactile richness.

Add tactile elements such as chunky knit pillows, raw-edge wool throws, and woven baskets to elevate the cozy, rustic vibe. These details can add a touch of handmade charm to your space, evoking the artisanal spirit of mountain living.

RH Ski House
Image courtesy of Business Wire

7. Don’t Forget Antlers | Mountain Home Decorating Ideas

A mountain home would only be complete with an antler or two. Antler chandeliers have been a highly sought-after lighting fixture for many interior design styles. Gone are the days when they were considered only for rugged and dark trophy rooms in rustic lodges or log homes. 

Now, they are used anywhere, from a home in the Hamptons to mountain-style living rooms and high-rise apartments. Whether you choose natural or faux, antlers add the perfect touch. Hang them on the wall, place them in decorative wooden bowls, display them on fireplace mantels, or use them as unique racks to hold hats or coats.

Warm & Cozy Ski Resort with Antler Chandelier
image courtesy of Valdisere Agence

8. Mountain-Inspired Furniture and Accessories

A mountain home should be comfortable, warm, and inviting. Oversized furniture layered with pillows and throws creates a space that promotes relaxation and great conversation. It’s essential to anchor the furniture with area rugs, defining the seating area. It’s also a perfect way to introduce color and texture – from lanterns and candles to picture frames, rattan baskets, mirrors, and blankets.

Leather furniture is a popular choice for mountain homes for a few reasons. First, leather is a durable and long-lasting material that can withstand the wear and tear of an active lifestyle. Second, leather has a classic, rustic look that perfectly fits a mountain home’s natural surroundings. Whether you are looking for a cozy chair to read in or a comfortable sofa, leather furniture is an excellent choice.

Choosing the right furniture and accessories is essential for creating a mountain-inspired home that feels stylish and comfortable. Look for pieces that feature natural materials like wood, stone, and metal, evoking the rugged appeal of mountain living. Consider furniture with clean lines and simple silhouettes to create a sense of timeless elegance that complements the rustic charm of the mountains.

Accessories like wooden bowls, antler chandeliers, and stone accents can enhance the mountain-inspired aesthetic, infusing your space with natural beauty. Look for pieces that showcase the raw, organic essence of the mountains, adding visual interest and character to your decor.

When selecting furniture and accessories, aim for a balance of functionality and style. Choose practical and visually appealing pieces, allowing you to create a space that feels inviting and well-appointed.

Mountain Home Decorating Ideas
Image courtesy of West of Main

9.  Use Area Rugs for Warmth, Color & Texture

When decorating a mountain home, area rugs bring warmth, comfort, and style. These rugs are perfect for defining living areas, adding texture, and creating a cozy atmosphere. The living room is one of the best places to use area rugs in a mountain home.

Place a large rug under the seating area to anchor the space and create a focal point. Additionally, you can use smaller rugs in the dining area, entryway, and bedrooms to add color and texture to the space. Ultimately, the key is to choose rugs that complement the style of your home and add a touch of warmth and comfort to the surroundings.

Arhaus Tonal Area Rugs 

10. Make the Bedrooms Havens

The bedrooms in a mountain home should be luxurious and provide peace and relaxation at the end of the day. High-quality linens, cozy duvets, and comfortable pillows enhance well-being. Add a faux sheepskin throw over the end of the bed for additional warmth.

RH Ski House
Image courtesy of Business Wire

11. Lighting: Creating a Warm and Inviting Ambiance

Proper lighting is essential for setting the mood and ambiance in a mountain-inspired space. Embrace warm, soft lighting that evokes the gentle glow of a mountain sunset, creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Consider ambient lighting, such as pendant lights, sconces, and floor lamps, to infuse your space with a warm, welcoming glow.

To enhance the mountain-inspired ambiance, consider adding natural elements like driftwood lamps, woven light fixtures, and candle holders to evoke the rustic charm of the mountains. These organic lighting elements can add a touch of natural elegance to your space, creating a warm and inviting environment.

In addition to ambient lighting, consider incorporating task lighting in key areas such as reading nooks, workspaces, and dining areas. By layering different types of lighting, you can create a versatile and well-lit space that caters to your daily activities while maintaining a cozy, mountain-inspired ambiance.

A Cozy & Inviting Log Cabin Bedroom | Jackson Wyoming Design
Image courtesy of Architectural Digest

12. Warm & Inviting Outdoor Spaces

Outdoor entertaining areas in a mountain home are essential for embracing the natural beauty and relaxed lifestyle associated with these settings. They serve as extensions of the indoor living space, designed to maximize enjoyment of the crisp air, stunning views, and connection with the surrounding landscape.

Terraced decks and patios can navigate sloped terrain while creating distinct zones for dining, lounging, and gathering. Opt for durable, weather-resistant materials that complement the natural environment, such as natural stone, timber, composite decking, or stamped concrete. Locally sourced materials enhance the rustic charm and blend seamlessly with the landscape.

Mountain Outdoor Entertaining Area
Image courtesy of Amanda Wyatt Design | Design Insider

DIY Mountain-Inspired Projects

DIY projects can be a fulfilling way to infuse your space with a personalized, mountain-inspired touch. Consider creating handmade decor elements such as driftwood wall art, macramé plant hangers, and nature-themed crafts to add a unique and artisanal flair to your home.

DIY projects also offer the opportunity to incorporate natural materials and textures into your decor, allowing you to create a space that feels personalized and connected to the natural world. Whether crafting wooden shelves, creating nature-inspired art pieces, or upcycling vintage finds, DIY projects can add a touch of individuality and creativity to your mountain-inspired space.

When including DIY projects, consider incorporating elements that reflect your connection to the mountains and nature. Whether collecting driftwood from your favorite hiking spot or foraging wildflowers to create botanical arrangements, infusing your space with personal touches can elevate the mountain-inspired ambiance and make your home truly unique.

Mountain Home Decorating Ideas
Photo Credit: Arhaus

Embrace the Spirit of the Mountains

When infusing your home with the spirit of the mountains, it’s all about creating a harmonious blend of natural elements and rustic charm. Start by incorporating earthy hues such as deep greens, warm browns, and shades of grey to mimic the colors of the mountains and forests. 

These tones will set the foundation for your mountain-inspired space, evoking a sense of peace and tranquility. Introduce textures like rough-hewn wood, cozy wool, and natural stone to enhance the rugged appeal of your decor further.

Next, consider adding elements that pay homage to the wildlife and flora found in mountainous regions. This could include incorporating botanical prints, wildlife motifs, and nature-inspired artwork into your decor. Think about bringing the outdoors in, whether through a collection of pinecones and acorns or a gallery wall featuring landscape photography of majestic mountain vistas. These touches will help connect to the natural world and infuse your space with the untamed beauty of the mountains.

To truly capture the essence of mountain living, focus on creating a cozy and inviting atmosphere. Soft, plush textiles like faux fur throws, knitted blankets, and plush area rugs can evoke the warmth and comfort of a mountain retreat. Consider layering textiles to add depth and dimension to your space, and don’t be afraid to mix and match patterns and textures for a relaxed, lived-in feel. By incorporating these elements, you can transform your home into a welcoming sanctuary that reflects the rugged yet inviting spirit of the mountains.

In addition to decor elements, pay attention to the power of scent in creating a mountain-inspired ambiance. Consider incorporating essential oils or candles with scents reminiscent of the great outdoors, such as pine, cedarwood, or lavender. These natural fragrances can transport you to a mountainside forest with their calming and grounding effects, adding an olfactory dimension to your mountain-inspired space.

Mountain Home Decorating Ideas
Photo Credit: Arhaus

Mountain Home Decorating Ideas Conclusion

Elevating your space with mountain-inspired home decorating ideas offers a unique opportunity to capture the rugged beauty and tranquil charm of the mountains within your home. By embracing elements like earthy textures, nature-inspired decor, and cozy, rustic furnishings, you can create a space that feels both inspired and inviting.

Whether you’re drawn to the timeless allure of mountain living or simply seeking a retreat from the urban hustle, these decorating ideas provide a versatile and stylish approach to infusing your space with the soul-soothing ambiance of the mountains. Embrace the natural charm and tranquility of mountain-inspired design, and transform your home into a sanctuary that speaks to your adventurous spirit and love for nature.

With these mountain-inspired decorating ideas as your guide, you can embark on a journey to create a space that reflects the serenity and rugged beauty of the mountains, allowing you to elevate your home into a haven of natural wonder and timeless allure. Let the mountains inspire your decor, and embrace the soul-soothing ambiance of mountain living within the comfort of your own four walls.

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Mountain Living. Mountain Home Makeover February 12, 2020

Cochran, Samuel. Gary Friedman Talks Shop About RH Ski House, RH’s Uber-Cozy New Brand. Architectural Digest. November 7, 2019.

Businesswire RH Introduces RH Ski House. Inspired by the World’s Epic Alpine Destinations, New Concept Debuts with Dedicated Source Book Showcasing Distinctive New Collections by Acclaimed Global Designers.