So, you’re back from your sojourn around the Mediterranean coastline, and you can’t get over the vivid memories of the architectural magnificence of the region. The upshot of the trip is that you want your home to have the same European look and feel. You have some ideas, but you’re not sure where to start and how to go about it. Let’s take it one step at a time.
The Mediterranean coastline running from south of France, through Greece and down the western coast of Italy to Venice, has an eclectic blend of different architectural styles. While each region has its own distinctive style, architecture across the region is largely an amalgamation of Roman, Venetian Gothic, Greek and Italian Renaissance influences.
Selective touches, both on the exterior and interior of the house, can add to the home’s curb appeal and give it the Mediterranean look and feel. Start by setting a budget and then see what you can accomplish within it.
Wrought iron
It can be something as simple as a wrought iron gate that leads to your back yard, to an intricate iron railing on your stairway inside the house. Iron hardware is both affordable and easy to integrate in your existing spaces, and doorknobs and cabinet pulls are some other simple ways to give your space the desired look.
Shutters
Think of all the gorgeous houses along the canals in Venice, and how most of them have shuttered windows. At one level, shutters give that classic Venetian visual appeal, while at a more practical and functional level they allow protection against the sun and heat, thereby reducing your utility bills.
The Shutter Store is your one-stop destination for affordable luxury shutters. Each order is made to measure and to your specification. This prevents any issues while installing the shutters. They offer a wide selection of shutter styles and materials, at affordable everyday prices.
Colored tiles
Selective use of Mediterranean or Venetian tiles around the house can go a long way towards giving your home a vibrant and earthy look. You can use these tiles as risers on your steps to the kitchen and bathroom walls and floors.
Wood details
This can range from interesting bathroom cabinet doors, to an arched wooden doorway. Arched doorways are elegant and capture the look you desire. An ornately carved door is a unique point of interest on its own. Wooden ceilings with exposed trusses and beams give your home the classic Spanish Riviera look.
Stone pavers
You can recreate the charm of southern Europe by redoing your driveway, courtyard or patio with stone pavers, and accent it with tiles featuring classic designs from the region. This gives a visual pop to the house and piques the visitors’ curiosity, even before they enter your house.
As a last word, don’t be afraid to mix and match styles, as long as they don’t clash. The same idea can be used as a major look in one space and as an accent in another space. This also helps in maintaining continuity and flow in the design.