Interior design elements used in Tuscan decorating include murals, pottery and earth tones.
Tuscan interior design is influenced by rustic decorating elements common in villages throughout the Mediterranean region. The style uses earth elements and natural colors to create a relaxing and comfortable living environment. Tuscan decor can create a vibrant and cozy kitchen and dining space, or you can use Tuscan elements throughout the home for a fluid transition from room to room. Does this Spark an idea?
Colors
Appropriate colors for Tuscan design include shades commonly found in earth, stone, wood and water. Rich yellow, orange or tan walls create a warm surrounding. Painted faux finishes can create texture and give more depth to wall colors. Tile or wood floors often feature the darkest shades, including browns, burnt crimsons and orange hues. Hand carved wood furniture in dark brown or black makes a striking accent against the light, warm room.
Wall Decor
Tapestries are a common choice for Tuscan wall decorating. Use colorful fabrics with complex floral patterns as a base for the color palate for other accessories in the home. Large pieces of decorative ironwork or mirrors with intricate iron frames work well on accent walls or in alcoves. Mirrors can also help to multiply natural light, which is an important aspect of nature in Tuscan design. Murals are a more permanent option for decorating alcoves, and garden and village scenes are a colorful and cozy way to invoke the life of the Italian landscape in your home.
Accent Pieces
Handmade pottery is a vital element in Tuscan design. Vases, urns and canisters in rich accent colors are nice additions to living spaces. Colorful ceramic pieces with hand-painted fruit and garden themes are often used in kitchen and dining spaces. Floral arrangements and fruit displays are another necessary element to pull together a theme that embodies the importance of nature and gardening in Tuscany. Wrought iron candelabras and chandeliers should grace dining spaces to provide warm, low lighting. Functional accessories, such as leather-bound books, maintain Tuscan color and style on a bookshelf.
Furniture
Tuscan furniture is simple, rustic and usually handcarved, and the dark colors of rustic wood furniture complement the subdued earth tones on walls. Solid wood benches and accent tables match the purpose of entry spaces and living rooms. Wood hutches or display cabinets can showcase pottery and accent pieces in the living or dining area. Dining tables may be round or rectangle, combined with solid wood chairs with leather seat cushions. Tall headboards are an elegant hallmark of Tuscan bedroom furniture. Built-in marble countertops in gold or deep orange shades add an opulent touch to kitchens and bathrooms.
Tags: Tuscan design, dining spaces, earth tones, kitchen dining, wood furniture
