Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Spanish Decorating Ideas For Family Room

Spanish floor tile design


Decorating with a Spanish flair makes for a comfortable and inviting atmosphere which is perfect for a family room. Spanish colonial may come to mind as the definitive Spanish decor style, but trade between Spain and other European countries, such as Italy and France, produced a Mediterranean influence in architecture and home interiors that was embraced by the Spanish people. Spanish decor pulls design elements from Tuscan and French Country, as well as old world Spanish styles. Does this Spark an idea?


Paint


Spanish interiors are well-known for their boldly painted and equally pronounced stark white or cream walls. Aged wall treatments such as stucco, plaster and color washes create old world elegance. Touches of ocher, ocean blue, bright pink, bold red and terracotta make for a lively and cheery environment in a family room.


Metal


Metal door pulls


Iron and copper are prolific in furniture designs. Wrought iron table bases with glass or wood tops work well as occasional tables in the family room. Cut out wood panels in the front of an armoire or hutch and install hand beaten copper panels in their place. Create interest and texture on walls with wrought iron wall grilles. Add family photos to silver frames and place on table tops and walls. Too much metal makes for a harsh look, so intermingle metal with other materials such as tile, wood, fabric and textiles.


Wood


An essential element of Spanish style, distressed wood gives a rustic look to your family room. Add a distressed wood table with iron accents in front of a leather sofa. Combine fine hard wood pieces with rustic ones for a sophisticated look. Lay wood floors for warmth. In a larger room, make a bold statement with an over-sized hutch or entertainment center in fine or distressed wood. Place a painted wood table and chairs in a corner to create an area for activities such as playing games or doing homework. Install an antique or rustic wood fireplace mantel to add extra enjoyment while the family enjoys a roaring fire.


Hand-Painted and Terracotta Tile


Tile is a staple in the Spanish home. Combine hand-painted tiles to make patterns on shelves, table tops and floors. Use terracotta tiles throughout the room or combine with wood for more warmth. Install a mosaic tile design in the middle of the floor with brightly colored tiles or in front of the fireplace. Hang a tile medallion on the wall to create a Spanish-style aesthetic focal point.


Textiles


Handmade textiles are seen throughout Spanish interiors. Woven in traditional Spanish designs, brilliantly colored rugs warm tile floors. Hang a large wall tapestry in a family room with a high ceiling to make it more intimate. Place table runners on wood table tops to add a splash of color and texture. Keep handwoven throws out for family and visitors to cover up with while watching television, studying, reading or simply relaxing.







Tags: family room, distressed wood, table tops, wood table, Spanish decor