❝Simplicity is the ultimate form of sophistication❞ - Leonardo da Vinci
There are many types of interior design and each style consists of distinctive furniture, decors, lighting, and accessories that give it its signature look. By getting to know some of the most popular styles, you’ll better understand what styles stand out to you and meet your preferences. From the famous Leonardo da Vinci’s quotes, keeping things simple is really smart, even though it might seem basic. Another interior design style with a simplicity concept which we will be discussing in today’s “Know Your Interior Design Style Series” brings us a warm and utterly timeless style! Taking reference to the aesthetics of southern European countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, it is mediterranean interior design style!
Get to know mediterranean interior design! Mediterranean interior design stands as a globally beloved style, imparting spaces with a distinctive and chic aesthetic while maintaining a sense of cleanliness and simplicity. As its name implies, this style draws inspiration from Southern European countries such as Italy, Morocco, Greece, and Spain. Renowned for its refreshing ambiance, reliance on natural materials, and inviting atmosphere, Mediterranean-style interior design transcends trends, offering a timeless allure. Ideal for enthusiasts of minimalist and refined aesthetics, it effortlessly combines clean lines with a touch of regal elegance. When adopting the Mediterranean style, some key aspects stay the same. These include highlighting nature, using natural materials and colors, and embracing outdoor living and the sea, so here are some key elements of this interior design style!
1. Use neutral color palette
In Mediterranean interior design, white, off-white, or cream plaster walls are a common feature. Stick to a neutral palette with white plaster walls that serve as background, enabling smaller bursts of color and accentuating the warmth of natural materials used and natural finishes. Choose color schemes inspired by nature, such as ocean blues and sunlit yellows and golds.
2. Use natural materials
Stone, terracotta, and wood are essential elements of Mediterranean style, found throughout its architecture. Simply using these materials can achieve the desired aesthetic. Additionally, Mediterranean interiors often incorporate natural finishing touches and decor, including rattan, linen, cotton, ceramics, terracotta, wrought iron, wood, and tile.
3. Bring outside indoors
Mediterranean design emphasizes both indoor and outdoor spaces. Outdoor areas like balconies and front yards are furnished to blend seamlessly with indoor spaces, using consistent materials like stone or wood. Ample outdoor seating provides comfort, while interiors prioritize airy atmospheres with natural light and outdoor views.
4. Incorporate arches
Arches are a distinct feature of Mediterranean-style houses, commonly seen above main entrances. These homes also incorporate arched windows, doors, door frames, and interior passages. Arches can range from simple and white to elaborate, adorned with patterned tiles or mosaic glass.
5. Maximize natural light
The airy ambiance of Mediterranean design is enhanced by large windows, French doors, or sliding doors, along with light and breezy window treatments. These features promote an open-air feel and take full advantage of the abundant sunlight in temperate climates. White window sills are commonly used to maintain a clean and crisp appearance, complementing the overall aesthetic of the interior design style.
6. Less is more concept
Despite incorporating stone walls and vibrant colors, Mediterranean design maintains a minimalist and uncomplicated aesthetic. It avoids excessive elements, adhering to the principle that less is more. When planning the space, prioritize hospitality and family gatherings, focusing on creating ample common areas with multiple seating options and a spacious dining table.
7. Designed to entertain
Mediterranean-style homes typically feature large, open common areas designed for hosting family and social events. These spaces facilitate shared meals, engaging conversations, and seamless transitions between indoor and outdoor living.
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Mediterranean interior design styles encompass a rich tapestry of influences from the diverse cultures surrounding the Mediterranean Sea. In this part of the article, we will look into the four major types of Mediterranean interior design, exploring their defining characteristics and cultural influences.
1. Greek Mediterranean
In Greek Mediterranean style, simplicity, light, and airy spaces take precedence. Whitewashed walls, blue accents, and natural textures such as stone and wood mirror the hues of the sea and sky. Furniture typically follows a minimalistic approach, focusing on comfort and functionality.
2. Spanish Mediterranean
Spanish Mediterranean interiors are defined by their warm earth tones, wrought iron accents, and vibrant tiles. Stucco walls, terra cotta floors, and wooden ceiling beams are common features. Furniture tends to be rustic and substantial, often embellished with intricate detailing in fixtures and decor.
3. Italian Mediterranean
Italian Mediterranean interiors exude elegance and sophistication, emphasizing luxurious materials like marble, granite, and polished wood. Soft, muted colors create a tranquil atmosphere, while intricate detailing in furniture and architectural elements adds a touch of opulence.
4. Moroccan Mediterranean
Moroccan Mediterranean interiors burst with color, pattern, and texture, inspired by the lively culture of North Africa. Deep blues, rich reds, and golden yellows are paired with intricate tile work, ornate textiles, and carved wood furniture, creating an extravagant and exotic ambiance. Traditional Moroccan motifs and decorative elements enhance the authenticity of the space.
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Incorporating Mediterranean interior design into your home is a wonderful way to infuse it with warmth, charm, and a sense of relaxation. Creating a Mediterranean-style look is straightforward when you remember a few key points. Here are some tips to help you achieve the ideal design :
1. Allow sunlight in
Make sure the room receives plenty of sunlight. You could install extra windows to achieve this. Using sheer curtains can help maintain the bright and breezy feel, allowing natural light to fill the space, perfect for creating a Greek or Italian-style Mediterranean ambiance.
2. Use lots of white
Using white helps to brighten up the space and effectively reflects sunlight, creating a vibrant room. Opting for white walls, furniture, and ceilings is an excellent way to achieve a Mediterranean ambiance.
3. Create accent walls
Introducing an accent wall with a different color or texture adds character to the space and helps define it. Options like blue textured walls or stone walls work well for creating accent walls.
4. Stick to a color scheme
While Mediterranean styles typically favor warm-toned colors, there are also many options in soothing tones available. However, it's important to stick to one color palette for consistency. Mixing palettes can result in an incomplete and disjointed look.
5. Add in an arch
Incorporating round arches near doors and corners adds an Italian flair and delineates spaces effectively. If your home lacks architectural arches, you can create the illusion of one by painting over a door or using an arched mold for dimension.
6. Use natural elements
Natural elements such as stone, terracotta, wood, and marble should be prominently featured. Organic textures and fabrics like linen, cotton, rattan, and wicker complement Mediterranean designs. Whether it is furniture or decors, it is always good to use those natural elements for elegance that fit the overall aesthetics of this interior design style.
7. Balance in symmetry
In Mediterranean decor, symmetrical designs are favored for creating balance within the space, where paired features or parallel arrangements enhance visual harmony. This approach applies to matching items like sconces, chairs, plants, pottery, mirrors, woven baskets, and other elements.
8. Use mosaic and patterned tiles
Colorful mosaic tiles serve as striking accents in Mediterranean-style homes, whether as focal points in bathrooms, backsplashes, or flooring. Patterned tiles, especially popular in Moroccan and Spanish-inspired designs, add depth and character to the space.
9. Add rustic and antique touches
While it's advisable to keep accessories to a minimum, incorporating antique or handmade elements such as clay pots, tiles, or ceramic ware enhances the artisanal ambiance of Mediterranean interiors.
10. Keep it simple
Despite their elegant appearance, Mediterranean interiors prioritize functionality. Maintenance can be challenging due to the predominant use of white, so it's important to prioritize functionality over design.
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That is all our discussion about mediterranean interior design! What do you think of this interior design style? Is it your preference? Consult your dream house with Livvy Luxury Living! Contact us on Whatsapp : +62 878 6894 8000 or visit us at 18 Office Park 25th floor Suite A, Jalan Simatupang Kav 18, South Jakarta.
Content Writer : Arcelia Emmanuella Adiwinata