Explore how to design your very own stay-cation setting and bring the Greek islands, to you. Read on to learn all the details of Mediterranean style design.
What is Mediterranean style?
Mediterranean style actually draws inspiration from a wide range of countries. From Santorini, to Marrakesh, to Naples, there are iconic local details that are specific to their cultural identity.
However, there are core, underlying design values that connect these countries. These design values are what we call, Mediterranean style. In this article, we look at 5 main design values and how you can integrate them into your home.
Indoor-outdoor living
Before looking at the finer details of furnishing and decorating, first consider the flow of your space. How do you move through it? Are there stark differences as you move through rooms? Is there a connection between your inside and outside spaces?
The Mediterranean style is all about embracing the indoor-outdoor lifestyle. Courtyards, balconies, front and back yards; they should all be different rooms of the same home. To achieve a harmonious indoor-outdoor flow, consider:
- Wide doorways or bi-folds
- Floor-to-ceiling windows
- Gas strut windows
- Outdoor rooms
- Internal courtyard, garden or atrium
- Mud room
- Outdoor showers
- Continuing interior design into outdoor spaces
- Bring outdoor features, like pants and water installations, inside
Stone textures
Another common design feature is the use of stone textures. Whether they be raw sandstone, polished marble or something in between, this element adds the atmosphere of the historic architecture celebrated throughout the Mediterranean.
Depending on your budget and space, stone textures can be added to your outdoor space in a number of ways, including:
- Stone feature tiles or cladding
- Pavers or flagstones
- Rockeries
- Statues or boulders
- Stone planters and decorative elements
- Marble tables, counters or splashbacks (if you have an outdoor kitchen)
Warm or rustic metals
Although it may seem like a small detail, your choice of metal can make a big difference to your overall design. To achieve a Mediterranean look and feel, choose finishes that are warm toned or rustic, such as:
- Brass
- Copper
- Gold
- Rose gold
- Wrought iron
Furthermore, metal finishes can provide added design details, too. For instance:
- Hammered metal offers a unique textural interest
- Antiqued metal enhances the historic feel
- Brushed metals will add a subtle, hand-made effect
- Polished finishes create a luxe, high-end aesthetic
- Satin offers a smooth finish that disguises fingerprints better than polished
Case Study: Three Birds Renovations #makeitmodular for Mediterranean Farmhouse
Mediterranean style and rendered finishes go hand in hand
Ranging from clean, modern whites, to rustic Tuscan renders, this canvas is what brings all your elements together to create one, harmonious space.
…in fact, what better way to frame your Mediterranean-inspired outdoor oasis than with our premium modular fencing?
Wood and rattan accents
Continuing with the earthy textures, the use of timber is another key element in Mediterranean design. Rattan, cane and timber can be included in your furniture or styling, whilst ensuring your options are treated specifically for outdoor use.
Cool, pale timbers can add a modern touch, but may lean toward a more Scandi finished effect; we’d recommend sticking to warmer or deeper tones, preferably with a raw finish.
