The Secret to Mediterranean Style
Mediterranean living is all about that breezy coastal living, with a slow pace of life enjoyed to the fullest on long sunny days and bright nights. Mediterranean design comes from Greece, Italy, Spain, and Morocco, where we see beautiful houses with an effortless sense of style. This style is all about indoor-outdoor living, natural light, and natural materials with many elements being deeply rooted in traditions.
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Many of the defining characteristics of Mediterranean-style houses come from old architectural elements being allowed to shine. Exposed wood beams, terracotta tiles, and natural stone walls are distinctively Mediterranean, preserved in a way that feels traditional yet timeless.
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Indoor-outdoor living is central to this style of home, which will have lush outdoor living spaces that flow seamlessly out from the interiors. Hospitality is key, and decor may mix traditional rustic elements with more contemporary pieces to create a warm and inviting space.
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The color scheme in Mediterranean designs tends to be quite neutral and minimal, emphasizing natural materials. When color is used, it’s often the blues of the ocean or the yellows of the sun, alongside white and shades of off-white.
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Natural materials like wood, rattan, jute, cane, linen, and cotton come together in Mediterranean homes to create a light, bright, and breezy aesthetic. The emphasis is on natural finishes and textures, with plenty of layers of different types of natural materials to create a cohesive and comprehensive look.
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Pottery and stoneware are decorative accents that echo an ancient Grecian style. Ceramic urns, vases, and candelabras can help create a Meditteranean look, along with woven baskets and stone sculptural pieces.
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Arches and niches are key features in Mediterranean homes, offering a nod to historical architecture. Emphasize arches with simple whitewash finishings, or recreate these arched designs with paintwork, curved furnishings, and arched windows.