The elements of Mediterranean decor typically come together to create a warm and inviting atmosphere that reflects the vibrancy of the cultures found along the Mediterranean coast. The key elements of Mediterranean decor include:
– Boldly colored walls: Rich and vibrant colors, such as shades of yellow, orange, red, and blue, are often paired together or accented by lighter shades like white or beige. Brightly painted ceramic tiles can also be used to enhance the look.
– Ornate furniture: Furniture pieces are usually made of dark, natural woods and ornately carved. Upholstered furniture is often tufted and covered in jewel-toned fabrics, such as velvet and silk.
– Decorative touches: Many of the decorative elements of Mediterranean decor draw on cultural and religious artifacts from the region. This often includes items such as hand-painted tiles, religious imagery, vintage pottery, and ornately detailed wall hangings.
– Natural materials: Natural fibers such as jute, sisal, and rattan create warmth and texture. A variety of plants and flowers complete the look.
– Metal accents: Wrought iron is often used to create light fixtures and accent pieces. Metal grilles, colorful ceramics, and antique art pieces are also commonly seen.
Ultimately, Mediterranean decor celebrates the warmth and vibrancy of the region by bringing together vibrant color, ornate furniture, decorative touches, natural materials, and metal accents. The resulting look is a stylish and elegant ambiance that brings a sense of the Mediterranean indoors.
How do I make my house look like the Mediterranean?
Creating a Mediterranean look for your home can be achieved in a few simple steps. The space should be filled with bright and bold colors, fabrics and finishes that evoke the feel of the Mediterranean landscape.
Start with a neutral-colored wall paint, such as a warm, off-white tone. A beige palette is often used as the base for a Mediterranean scheme. Accent the walls with vibrant colors like yellow, red, cobalt blue, and vivid greens inspired by the region’s seas, mountains and farmland.
Create a cozy and comfortable atmosphere with furniture that celebrates the region’s traditional styles. Rattan, wicker, and pastoral white-washed woods are all great choices. Include sofas and chairs upholstered in colorful fabrics such as printed stripes, floral prints, embroidery, and damasks.
Add beautiful pillows in a diverse range of styles with intricate and colorful fringe, tassels, shells, and pompoms.
Use natural ceramic floor tiles, such as terracotta, clay, or slate. Alternatively, reclaimed hardwood or porcelain tiles can also be used. Hang bright, airy curtains and layer rugs to add texture and color.
Fill the room with subtle Mediterranean decor pieces such as pottery, jugs, and trays filled with fruit; colorful mosaic mirrors; and rustic terracotta planters filled with herbs. Lastly, incorporate dried wildflowers, terra cotta urns, and painted ceramics to complete the look.
What is a Mediterranean look?
A Mediterranean look is a design style that is inspired by the colors, textures and elements found in coastal regions bordering the Mediterranean Sea. It is typically seen as a bright and airy design style that incorporates natural elements, simple patterns and rustic finishes.
Common colors associated with the Mediterranean look are aqua, blue, white, and terra cotta, as well as warm colors, like oranges, reds, and yellows. To create the look, homeowners should use textured fabrics and natural materials, such as wood and stone for their floors, walls and furniture.
Natural rattan and wicker furniture will also help to create the look, as well as pottery, potted plants and cut flowers for decoration. Mediterranean-style décor also often features Mediterranean-style tiles and archways, picture frames with floral motifs, terracotta pots, wrought iron accents and beamed ceilings.
Creating a Mediterranean look is not just about the colors and elements used, but also about creating a warm and welcoming feel by combining these elements in the right way.
What is the major feature of Mediterranean architecture?
The major feature of Mediterranean architecture is its affinity for courtyards and enclosed outdoor spaces along with an appreciation of the climate, culture and beauty of the surrounding area. This style incorporates Greco-Roman elements, as well as Islamic and Spanish influences.
Mediterranean architecture often includes large porticos, terraces, and balconies; long, outdoor corridors; tile roofs; and arch motifs. Sun-drenched courtyards typically serve as outdoor living spaces, providing privacy and respite from the hot, Mediterranean climate.
These outdoor spaces often feature a central pool for refreshment and relaxation. Mediterranean-style homes often attempt to capture the spirit of the Mediterranean lifestyle, featuring rich surfaces, details, and textures with an overall natural palette.
Additionally, arches, columns and loggias are also common features of Mediterranean building design. The exterior façade is embellished with terra-cotta tiles, handcrafted wooden elements, brightly colored tiles, shutters, and decorative iron work.
Ornamental details help to create a timeless charm, often one that evokes a rich historical history.
Is Italy on the Mediterranean?
Yes, Italy is on the Mediterranean Sea, as it borders the central Mediterranean Sea to the south. It is one of the countries in the Mediterranean region, commonly referred to as a Mediterranean country.
Various cities in Italy, such as Naples, Rome, and Venice, are situated along the coastline of the Mediterranean Sea. Italy is also home to several islands, such as Sardinia and Sicily, which are both located in the Mediterranean Sea.
In addition, a number of important Italian ports, including Genoa and Livorno, are situated on the Mediterranean coast. Italy’s location on the Mediterranean has played an important role in its history, culture, and economy, and the country’s cuisine is largely influenced by the flavors of the Mediterranean.
What is the difference between Mediterranean and Spanish style homes?
Mediterranean and Spanish style homes are both very distinct architectural styles that; although originating from the same area, have some distinct differences.
In general, Mediterranean style homes are characterized by their stucco exteriors, low pitched red tile roofs, and terracotta flooring. They are also known for their courtyards, balconies, and terraces that make their outdoor living spaces great for entertaining guests or relaxing.
The design normally follows the classic tile flooring, warm earthy colors, arches and vaulted ceilings, large fireplaces, and symmetrical accents.
On the other hand, Spanish style homes usually have a more muted color palette, characterized by white stucco walls, red-tiled roofs, and arched doorways. The exterior design also is known for its spacious balconies, wrought-iron detailing, and courtyard gardens.
As for the interiors, generally the design follows the classic Spanish style which has white walls, plaster or beamed ceilings, tiled floors, and dark wooden furniture. These homes also feature wrought iron details and more ornate features than their Mediterranean counterparts.
They are also known for the grand entryways and patios that lead directly into the interior of the home.
What type of architectural style is found in the Mediterranean?
The Mediterranean style of architecture is seen in many different regions around the Mediterranean Sea. It was developed by people who lived in settlement areas of the Mediterranean Basin, which included the Iberian Peninsula, the Greek Isles, and North Africa.
This style of architecture is characterized by its spreading, horizontal roofs, extending low to the ground, and cascading curved archways, which often open out into terraces. Inside the homes is often an open, more open plan layout with walls painted in a light hue, often white or cream.
It often has large windows and doors that are typically constructed with iron or wood, allowing a lot of light in to the home. Exterior finishes can be stucco, whitewash, stone, or tile, which often includes arches or niches over windows and doorways.
These exteriors are often decorated with ornamental iron or stonework, creating intricate designs. Mediterranean homes are perfect for those who like to bask in the Mediterranean sun and enjoy the cozy, relaxed atmosphere of Mediterranean living.
Is Greek architecture Mediterranean?
Yes, Greek architecture is considered to be part of the Mediterranean style of architecture. This type of architecture is characterized by its white stucco walls and bright red or blue ceramic roofs.
It also features columned porches, rectangular courtyards, and geometric mosaic floors. Greek architecture often uses stone, wood and other natural materials, often utilizing a variety of decorative and practical architectural elements, including archways, columns, and tympana.
The Parthenon at the Acropolis in Athens is perhaps the most iconic example of classical Greek architecture. Greek architecture is widely considered to be a source of inspiration for many other types of Mediterranean architecture, including that of ancient Rome, the Islamic world, and Renaissance Italy.
Which feature do Mediterranean countries have in common?
Mediterranean countries share a number of features in common. One major characteristic of Mediterranean countries is their warm climate, with temperatures rarely dropping below 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
Additionally, these countries are surrounded by a variety of bodies of water, including the Mediterranean Sea, Adriatic Sea, Aegean Sea, and Ionian Sea. This geography naturally lends to their influence in both fishing and maritime trade.
Mediterranean countries, which include Spain, Italy, Greece, Croatia, Morocco, and others, are generally considered to be in the region of Southern Europe, although some may technically straddle both Southern Europe and Northern Africa.
Along with a shared climate, they tend to have notable agricultural industry, with olives, grapes, and citrus fruits being some of their major agricultural exports. In terms of architecture, many of these countries share a focus on outdoor living, with open courtyards and patios that allow citizens to take advantage of their temperate climate.
Generally speaking, Mediterranean countries are known for their rich history, culture, art and architecture, as well as for their love of food and wine.
Do Mediterranean houses have shutters?
Yes, Mediterranean houses often have shutters. Shutters provide a layer of protection against the elements, as well as add a decorative element to the exterior of the home. Depending on the region, shutters are generally made from lightweight materials like wood, plastic, or aluminum.
They are often painted in Mediterranean colors, such as bright white, beige, light blue, or even yellow. Mediterranean shutters typically open outward and are used to protect the home from high winds, intense sunlight, and to offer more privacy from neighbors.
Shutters can also help to conserve energy by keeping the home cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter.
Why do houses in Spain have shutters?
Houses in Spain often have shutters, which provide a combination of form and function. The shutters provide an aesthetically pleasing accent to the traditional architecture of the region, as well as serve as a practical way to keep the home cool and comfortable while blocking out the intense sunlight.
The shutters are also an added protective level of security, as they can be fully closed and locked in order to make the home harder to enter. In the hotter months the shutters can be opened partially to allow for a natural air flow, providing cooling and ventilation indoors.
With their elegant design and versatility, it’s easy to understand why houses in Spain are fitted with shutters.