Mediterranean style interior design combines the warm, carefree summer vibes from the Mediterranean and the popular indoor-outdoor living practised there.
This minimalist-chic approach to decorating makes full use of natural materials and finshes. Mediterranean is a branch of coastal design, which is a broader term used for seaside living.
Interior & image by Pufik Homes
WHERE DOES THE MEDITERRANEAN INTERIOR ORIGINATE FROM?
Mediterranean style generally refers to the aesthetics of Southern European countries such as Greece, Italy, and Spain.
Keep in mind that there are actually 21 countries that border the Mediterranean, meaning that you can see design influences from Israel, Morocco, and beyond.
These countries share a collective sensibility related to their shared proximity to the Mediterranean Sea, they each still possess centuries of distinct culture and design traditions.
Interior & image by Pufik Homes
MODERN MEDITERRANEAN
Modern Mediterranean architecture and interior design focuses on the current ways we like to live, with bigger rooms and large energy efficient windows but paired with classic materials, ensuring that the building will still pay homage to history.
Use contemporary furniture and decor with original features such as natural stone walls, exposed wood beams and tiled floors.
Read on to discover more detailed elements of the Mediterranean style and how to adapt it for your interior regardless of location or climate.
KEY ELEMENTS OF MEDITERRANEAN STYLE DESIGN
Emphasis on indoor-outdoor living
Open plan living
Maximises natural light and views of the outdoors
Arched windows and doors
Exposed beams, natural stone walls, tile or hardwood floors
Keep the design paired back, use the less is more approached
Use of natural materials in finishes and decor such as wood, rattan, ceramics, tiles, terracotta, wrought iron, linen, and cotton
Neutral palette with white plaster walls
Draw on the natural environment and use blues from the ocean, yellows from the sun and greens from the vegetation for bolder colours
A large dining area is a must with multiple seating for big gatherings
Interior & image by Pufik Homes
MEDITERRANEAN STYLE INTERIOR DESIGN TIPS
Declutter to keep the space minimal
Opt for shades of white or cream on the walls
Allow natural imperfections on surfaces to show through to add texture
White wash walls or floors to add texture and patina
Choose wide plank wood flooring or tile depending on preference and climate
Use same flooring throughout to create a cohesive look
Leave flooring bare or use flat-weave rugs in natural materials and muted colours
For other surface finishes, consider raw materials such as natural stone, unfinished wood, bamboo, or cement
Interior & image by Pufik Homes
Incorporate natural materials for furniture and decorative objects, such as rattan, wicker, straw, rope, jute, linen, cotton, and wool
Highlight existing architecture or add in details such as exposed beams, stone or vintage tiles to add character to a newer build
Choose rustic, handcrafted, sculptural decor objects, like ceramics, baskets, and vases
Make the most of natural light with bare windows, linen or cotton unlined curtains
Create indoor-outdoor living with French, sliding or bi-folding doors
Why not try mosaic tiles to add interest and detail to an area
Combine multiple textures to create warmth and interest
Take the same care and attention to detail to decorate outdoor spaces like a patio, balcony or terrace as you would with interior spaces, think about tying these two spaces together with textile print
Use open shelving to display curated dinnerware, glassware and accessories
Place Mediterranean greenery like a potted olive or lemon tree to complete the look
Below I have done two mood board for the Mediterranean style interior
This mood board is a modern take on a classic.
Keeping with traditional seaside colours of blue, white, light beige and terracotta but using them in modern designs and fabric patterns.
With this mood board I've taken a more modern and paired back approach.
Drawing on the natural beauty of materials like rattan, ceramics and wood.
Colours are muted and soft creating a cool interior for those hot days.
Interior & image by Pufik Homes
I hoped you have enjoyed this article - let me know what your favourite design style is?
jx
