No Mediterranean-inspired room is complete without a few wrought iron accessories.
Mediterranean style is influenced by Spanish, Italian and southern French design. These three countries top the Mediterranean Sea and allowed for travelers to share ideas that culminated into the creation of a sea-and-fire-inspired style. From Italy's Tuscan design, Mediterranean uses dark, heavy wood for furniture. The bright, vibrant colors of Spain contrast with the dark woods, and the French lend the ornate scroll work for iron wall grilles and mirror frames. The sea is included in the softer tones of blue and green that are also at home in Mediterranean decor. Does this Spark an idea?
Colors
Create the ideal backdrop for Mediterranean accessories with a high contrast color palette. Dark wood furniture and cabinetry are staples in Mediterranean style decorating. Furniture is dark, substantial in scale and often has metal inlays on doors. The darkness of the furniture is in high contrast to white or cream walls that make the darkness pop and creates an air of luxury and sophistication. A Mediterranean kitchen is warmer with yellow-gold, orange or red walls as a backdrop for dark cabinetry.
Metal Accessories
Prominent in any Mediterranean style room is metal. Dark metal is intricately shaped to create wall art, candle holders, frames, mirrors, baskets and decorative accents on furniture. For kitchens and baths, use oil-rubbed bronze fixtures in sinks and bathtubs. Hang an ornate piece of metal relief art on the wall in the living and dining rooms. Place metal base lamps on tables and desks, and display magazines in wrought iron stands.
Terracotta Accessories
The bold rich colors of Mediterranean decor are found in terracotta pottery. Arrange a collection of vases, bowls and pots in every room of your home. Rich orange, red and yellow pop against the dark metal and wood. Place a tall terracotta yellow vase on a table or kitchen counter. Store rice and beans in jars with wrought iron bases. In a bathroom renovation, opt for a terracotta vessel sink on the vanity.
Tapestries, Rugs and Drapery
Richly-colored wall tapestries and floor rugs add texture to a Mediterranean room. Frame windows with silk or velvet drapery for opulence and luxury. Balance the hard lines of wood and metal accents by layering in tapestries and drapery. Rugs anchor furniture and create seating areas while protecting hardwood floors from scrapes. Place matching and coordinating pillows on seating to reinforce the color palette. Add a throw to the back of the couch.
Tags: Mediterranean style, wrought iron, color palette, high contrast, Mediterranean decor