What is the Mediterranean Style of Decorating?

The Mediterranean style of decorating has its roots in Spain, Greece and Italy. Mediterranean decorating is also known as Spanish modern and Tuscan decorating. Interestingly, the Mediterranean style can be casual or formal as well as traditional or modern depending on the materials used.

Metal is popular in all types of Mediterranean decorating. You can use burnished or hammered copper or pewter for the traditional Mediterranean look and shinier metal for the contemporary Mediterranean look. Wrought iron is a must for capturing the Mediterranean look and it compliments both traditional and contemporary styles.

Wrought iron towel holders are the perfect accent in a Mediterranean-themed bathroom. Wrought iron candle holders and/or light fixtures look great in a Mediterranean-styled dining room, living room or bed room. Mirrors make beautiful accent pieces and fit in well with Mediterranean decorating if they are trimmed in wrought iron. You can find two main types of wrought iron mirrors. One kind has a more solid, heavy trim while the other kind of wrought iron mirror has an airy, curvy metal trim.

Metal bowls and vases, especially large ones, can add great impact to a Mediterranean decorating style. Large tapestry wall hangings are commonly used in Tuscan-style decorating. Textured walls such as a brushed terracotta paint effect really add to the Mediterranean ambiance.

Rich colors are a big part of Mediterranean decorating. You can capture this design element easily in a bedroom or living room by adding a group of solid-colored throw pillows to one end of a good-sized sofa or maybe to a large upholstered chair. Use pillows in rich velvety fabrics in opulent shades of any color you'd like, but mix the shades and tones. Tuscan-styled pottery in rich, warm shades such as brown or burnt orange can accent the Mediterranean look in a kitchen. Plums and burgundies can also be found in Mediterranean decor such as in floral and vine patterned textiles.

Mosaic tile floors are very Mediterranean and you can choose from a wide range of colors and patterns. Some Mediterranean tile floors are boldly patterned and colored while others are more subtle in both pattern and color. For example, some floors look like colorful patchwork quilts, while other Mediterranean floors have a delicate design in soft blues and greens. Bright, detailed designs in bold colors such as reds and yellows are also used in some Mediterranean mosaic tile floors.