How to Create a Tuscan Kitchen
Tuscan design styles, inspired by the Tuscany region of Italy, are a popular paint choice in American homes. Based on earth tones, the Tuscan look can add a warm, welcoming feel to your kitchen. Contemporary Tuscan interior paint styles in the United States do not mirror the decorating styles of Italy, but instead take elements such as color, texture and finishes that are popular in the region and use them as a base for a modern look. Does this Spark an idea?
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Instructions
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Paint your walls in colors that imitate a sun-baked or plastered appearance. The colors of the sun--reds, yellows, oranges and shades of gold--are excellent choices. Textured painting that brings in more than one shade is definitely a recommendation if you're willing to make the effort.
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Bring the outdoors into your kitchen wherever possible. Pick materials that are made of clay, wood, stone and metal to create the natural look you're attempting to achieve. The more aged these items appear, the better for creating a Tuscan kitchen.
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Install stone floors in your kitchen, if possible, to solidify the Tuscan decorating theme. Wood floors or terra cotta tiles are excellent alternatives.
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Paint the kitchen cabinets in an antique white finish or select a dark wood stain. Also, replace the hardware on the cabinetry for a quick change with noticeable impact, and without the expense of new cabinets.
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Use wrought iron freely in wall sconces and chandeliers, and for wine and pot racks. This style is authentic to the Tuscan region and can be budget-friendly as well.
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Bring in clay pottery, canisters, baskets and metal bowls to hold food, utensils, recipe cards, napkins and potholders, as well as pens, pencils and notepads. These items will authenticate the atmosphere, while proving useful for organizing your Tuscan kitchen.
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Tips & Warnings
Check with local home improvement stores for classes on textured painting and faux finishes. The classes are typically free and provide valuable information, as well as the opportunity to practice before painting your walls.
If real stone is out of the budget (and you prefer the look of stone), consider realistic stone laminates as an alternative.
