Coastal Mediterranean Style Color Palette
The color palette varies slightly depending on the region around the Mediterranean. Italy loves the earthy color palette of warm tones of brown and terracotta and greens where Greece’s color palette is more connected to the sea and its various hues of blue. There is a strong Moroccan influence in this design style as well. All these areas use vibrant hues along with either pure crisp white or warm neutral walls.
Mediterranean Forms & Line
The bulbous round shapes of pottery
- curved and organic
- decorative ornamentation
- simple
- arches
Mediterranean Style Furniture
A variety of furniture styles can be paired with this design style. Think natural woods and comfort when choosing furniture. Low profile seating is often seen with this style for a comfortable and easy going aesthetic. Natural materials like this bamboo sofa frame and rattan pendant light pairs well as in this picture from artfasad.com. Wrought iron accents and vintage pieces are also often used.
Mediterranean Style Architecture
There is a strong architectural statement in this style. Whether the walls are white or a creamy neutral, the textured stucco or plaster walls create a rustic and inviting atmosphere. The stone or hardwood floors are often distressed and earthy as if they have stood the test of time where generations have walked. Arched windows and doors abound with their gracious curves. Colorful tile is often seen in the kitchen and decorative ironwork may be seen.
- terra cotta tile
- arched doorways
- natural exposed wood beams
- decorative ironwork
- french doors
- natural stone
- colorful tile
- outdoor spaces for family living
Patterns & Prints
This style loves its pattern. Even though Morocco is on the other side of the sea, it does have its influence. You may see this influence in the cut metal pattern in the light fixtures which create unique patterns of light on the stark walls. The prints are in delicate balance with the solid neutrals.
- arabesque
- moroccan
- upholstery is often a solid neutral but the pillows can bring in pattern and color
- repeating geometric
Textures, Materials and Finishes
The textures of nature abound in this style offering a cozy atmosphere.
- natural textures and materials
- patina
- rattan
- wicker
- bamboo
- wrought iron
- terra cotta
- distressed and weathered woods
- mosaic and patterned cement, porcelain or ceramic tile
- clay pots
- dark metal finishes
Fabrics
Unfussy and natural fibers
- natural fabrics like cotton, linen and wool
- seagrass
- rattan
Window Treatments
The architecture offers ample amount of light. Light and airy window treatments keep the rooms bright and airy. Choose fabrics from this style to create window treatments.
- sheer curtains
- wood shutters
- wrought iron grillwork
- lightweight shades
Lighting
Lots of natural light through large windows and doors.
- wrought iron chandeliers and glass
- lanterns
- sconces
- woven shades
Art & Decor
In keeping with the connection with the outdoors, green plants are used generously in these neutral rooms. in this example a large potted plant is used along with woven baskets on the wall and on the floor. A highly textured pillow is thrown on the floor which adds more high texture. The bed look as if it has natural cotton linens. A vibrant color was not chosen for this room but they let all the textures be the star. Even the rug is high in natural texture.
- ceramics
- mosaics
- vibrant colored rugs
- jute or sisal rugs
- woven baskets
- pottery
- minimal wall decor
This video from Suzie Anderson Home does a fabulous job explaining the Mediterranean style with lots of pictures.
