This style, also known as Spanish modern, originated in the north Mediterranean Sea countries of Spain, Greece and Italy. The sun and heat in these climates helps to create the purpose of this style. In Mediterranean interior design there is an emphasis on thick walls, white plaster and stone with deep niches for windows shielded by louvered shutters. Walls are textured and bull-nose edges are found on countertops and mantels. In these interiors, colors reflect the sea and sky and include warm terracotta, lavender and yellow.

Mediterranean Décor

Mosaic tile designs embody Mediterranean design. These tiles can be found in the floors, in a kitchen backsplash, in mirror frames or tabletops. Additional design materials include rich woods, tile, terracotta bricks and embroidered linens. Visual depth is added to walls through sand texture or layers of paint and glaze hand rubbed on plaster. Common Mediterranean accessories include burnished bronze urns, filigree light fixtures and a wrought-iron fireplace screens.

Mediterranean Furniture

Mediterranean-style furniture ranges from functional to formal. Wooden pieces are short with ornately turned legs and feet and hardware is heavy and burnished. Wrought iron furnishings are also common. These different styles of furniture are brought together within a room - such as wooden and iron mixed chairs that may be found in dining rooms, balconies, terraces and gardens.