subject: Use Mediterranean Furniture, Mediterranean Decor To Add A Touch Of Exotic Drama To Any Room [print this page] Mediterranean furniture, Mediterranean decor and Mediterranean accent pieces have long been popular choices for the home. There is a touch of the exotic about the designs that captivate decorators everywhere. The style, which is sometimes called Spanish Modern, originated in countries such as Italy, Greece, and Spain. These countries lie along the north shore of the Mediterranean Sea, which has given the style its name. However, there are also definite Moroccan influences in the category as well.
Most Mediterranean pieces of furniture have a short stature when compared to most other categories. The legs and feet are usually intricately carved by hand. Hardware is commonly burnished and heavy. Typically, the wood is stained to a dark finish.
Mosaic tiles are an integral part of Mediterranean style. Tiles can be used on the floor or kitchen walls, either as a back splash or a decorating accent. They also add an interesting touch on a tabletop or used to frame a picture or mirror. For a less expensive option that offers the same feel, stencil designs can be painted on furniture or used as borders.
The color schemes used in Mediterranean decor are usually subdued shades of blue, green, and turquoise. Yellow, terra cotta, and pale gold also have a place in the palette. Some areas also used more vibrant colors, such as sapphire, lavender, burgundy, and emerald for accents.
To create a room with a true Mediterranean feel, you might want to add texture to the walls. A plaster wall over which several layers of paint and glaze have been applied by hand rubbing will add a pleasing look. The depth can be simulated by a tinted paint accented by colored beeswax.
Accessories that feature bronze and wrought iron complete the look of a Mediterranean room. Covers for light fixtures, fireplace screens, or accent pieces may be airy in design, similar to a filigree, or heavier, thicker pieces. If the room is large enough and bright enough, you might consider a tapestry on the walls or a tapestry table runner. In a small, dim room, however, they can make the room feel even smaller and darker.
When buying Mediterranean furniture, expect to pay more than you would for many other styles. True Mediterranean furniture is constructed from genuine wood and craftsmen use traditional techniques to hand craft each item. This means that even when several pieces are made from the same pattern, each will be different in some way. The quality of the construction and materials means that it should give you many years of use with the proper care. Some pieces have been used for generations and still appear new.
The Moroccan or Moorish influences will show in several different aspects. Arches are popular, over doorways, windows, and in the furnishings such as mirror frames. Grills are often used over the windows or hung on the wall alone to simulate windows. Burnished bronze urns, candle holders, and mounts used for tapestries or pictures are also common.
Plush pillows add another nice decorating touch. Rectangular and roll shapes are more common than square ones. Pillows are often larger than those typically seen, and some can be used on the floor for seating.
Some people are more comfortable by adding a few touches before committing to a complete make over. If so, you might consider beginning with one or two large pieces, such as an area rug or a table. You might also consider handling the paint job or installation of tile first. If you are pleased by the feel this creates, you can then easily expand, since one of the most important attributes of Mediterranean style is that there is no precise matching. Rather than perfectly coordinating, pieces blend with each other. This lets you take your time to complete the room, making it easier on you and your wallet.
