Mediterranean Decorating Styles

If you love the vibrant colors of Mediterranean interiors, consider decorating your home in the Mediterranean style, which was born in countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, specifically Greece, Italy and Spain. The uniquely Mediterranean look can be achieved easily by following a few simple guidelines. By choosing the right colors, materials, furniture, accessories and other design elements, you can decorate your home with all the attractive warmth of Mediterranean decor.

Color Scheme

The originators of Mediterranean style looked to the landscape around them for the color scheme. Sky blue, sea green, sunny yellow, terra cotta and lavender are frequently employed in achieving this look. Lovers of the Mediterranean look aren't afraid to splash richly colored paint on the walls and bring out those same shades in throw pillows and other accessories.

Furniture

Mediterranean furniture is handsome, with striking details such as intricately carved legs and arms. Furniture is upholstered in fabrics in the color scheme discussed above and tends to be low to the ground. Furniture is frequently made from wood or wrought iron.

Accessories

Attention to detail is vital when creating Mediterranean interiors, and well chosen accessories can really make this look. In addition to paintings on walls, colorful woven tapestries are popular in Mediterranean decor. Large decorative vases and urns can be used on a fireplace mantel or in a corner of the room. In the spirit of bringing the outdoors in, plants are frequently used in Mediterranean style rooms. A row of fresh herbs growing in terra cotta pots on a sunny kitchen windowsill, a potted tree tucked away in the corner of the living and a vase of colorful flowers in the foyer are a few examples.

Materials

There are several materials that are commonly used to achieve Mediterranean decor, including tile, terra cotta and wrought iron. Mediterranean interiors are known for their use of decorative tile and tile mosaics, which add a striking design element to a room. You can achieve this effect with your floor tiles, or in the kitchen on counters and backsplashes. Terra cotta can be used in pots and planters, while wrought iron candlesticks and table legs are frequently encountered in Mediterranean style homes.

Textured Walls

In addition to color, furniture, materials and accessories, texture is an important element for achieving the Mediterranean look. Mediterranean interiors boast old textured plaster walls that hint of a long, rich history. If you don't have the old walls, don't fret. There are several products on the market to help achieve the desired effect, such as drywall compound and sand paint.