subject: How to Decorate Your Home in a Mediterranean Style [print this page] How to Decorate Your Home in a Mediterranean Style
One of the more popular concepts in interior design today is to come up with an overall theme for your home. Contemporary, shabby chic, French country, and tropical style are just a few of the design themes that are popular today. Another trendy design theme and style for homes today is Mediterranean.
This Mediterranean style features the use of of vibrant, bold colors, as well as using wrought iron for decorative accents. If you are thinking about a Mediterranean-themed design for your home, here are a few decorating ideas to keep in mind.
Color
The most important aspect of Mediterranean style and design is color. Colors in this style are heavily influenced by colors found in nature like browns and greens for earth shades, and bright blues for sky colors. Orange is one particularly popular color that is often used to contrast with blue shades. Any Mediterranean home will feature bright, exotic colors like these. Wall paints will often be textured to give an aged feel that is found in nature.
Furniture
Rustic wooden furniture is essential to any Mediterranean themed home. Wrought iron is commonly used as accent pieces throughout the home as well. Items like candle holders and towel holders are most often made from wrought iron. Large tapestries and oil paintings are often found in living rooms for their added color and effect. Terracotta pots and other earthenware are necessary additions for both the interior and exterior of the home.
Flooring
The preferred flooring choice in a Mediterranean style home is generally mosaic tiling. A mosaic pattern can also be applied to ceramic or terracotta tiled floors. These mosaic tiles are also commonly used as back splashes in kitchens. Favorite colors for floors include burnt orange and brick red.
Materials
Thick and heavy fabrics with bold colors and patterns are most popular in Mediterranean homes. Area rugs typically feature bright, colorful designs. Curtains do not necessarily need to match other decorative elements in the room, and are often contrasting in color. Preferred colors for couch pillows, throw blankets, and quilts include vibrant golds, oranges, and reds.
A Mediterranean style decorating theme is an increasingly popular choice for homeowners today. Keep in mind that the overall concept is to design a warm and comfortable home that is inviting and welcoming to both family and friends.
