More and more sunny Tuscan villas are emerging throughout the country as people attempt to recreate the holiday-like look and feel that is just one of this style’s many characteristics. A need in the market to create a home that is haven away from stressful reality is certainly one of the biggest reasons why this style is so popular at the moment.
The appeal also lies in its simplicity as this style combines worn, loved items with natural elements and is completely without pretence. The natural elements of stone, wood, water and colour are essential in any Tuscan style home.
History and origin
During the Renaissance, people in Florence (the capital city of the Tuscan region) started to move to the beautiful hills of central Italy to remove themselves from city life, escape the intrigue of politics, and embrace the idealized culture of the country. They enjoyed the beauty of nature and incorporated the elements into their villas. Herb gardens were planted just outside the kitchen door, and long tables were placed in courtyards for hours of relaxation while dining on the local fare, including wine. This tradition of indoor/outdoor living continued, and the Tuscan countryside became known for its easy lifestyle and quaint interiors.
Characteristics
Tuscan décor is mainly characterised by a rustic, warm and inviting look, created by sturdy materials that can withstand the test of time.
Flooring: Due to the fact that Tuscan style décor was mainly inspired by the natural elements that could be found in the countryside, limestone or sandstone became the general material used for flooring – this material is still used in Tuscan style décor today. Marble and hardwood are also used as Tuscan floor coverings. Floors are often covered with colourful rugs to add warmth and colour to a room.
Roofing: Terracotta roof tiles are mainly used when building Tuscan villas. The roof is normally square (to fit the square building style of the foundation) with a sharp pitch on top.
Outdoors: The outside area of a Tuscan style villa is normally characterised by:
- Patio/porch
- A central water feature like a bubbly fountain
- Tall trees and lots of green grass
- Central courtyard
- Walkways and driveways made from natural stone or brick
- Statues made from marble or cement usually grace outside gardens
Natural elegance: Marble is also commonly found in Tuscan villas and is often used for decorative details, flooring, arches, and pillars.
Windows: Another charming characteristic of the Tuscan style is the deep set window frames, surrounded by wooden shutters. Windows are often left uncovered during the day to take ample advantage of natural light.
Colours: Rich colours inspired by nature like Terracotta, brick, ochre, olive green, rusty red, deep blue and golden yellow are often seen in Tuscan villas. Walls are mostly plastered and often yellowish in colour.
Furniture: Plain furniture, made from wood or wrought iron is prominent in Tuscan furniture design. Cupboards, armoires, kitchen tables and chairs are made of wood and have a heavy, solid look to them. Tuscan homes don’t come with built-in closets, so cupboard and armoires store dishes, linens and clothes. Open shelves provide storage and a place to display dinnerware and ceramics. Many accessories are made in wrought iron. Bed frames are common both in solid wood and in wrought iron.
Accessories: Tuscan home decor is completed with brightly coloured ceramic bowls and serving dishes in the kitchen, majolica plates on the walls or shelves in the kitchen or common areas and plants in ceramic pots around the house.
The Tuscan kitchen
This is one of the easiest areas to establish a Tuscan theme. If you want to recreate a Tuscan style kitchen in your home, ensure that it has the following Tuscan elements:
- Dark colours like burnt orange, burgundy or olive green go well with the Tuscan theme.
- Kitchen cupboards made from dark wood like mahogany or cherry.
- Brick or stone walls and floors are ideal to carry the theme through.
- Copper ornaments on display is also a true Tuscan characteristic.
- Marble tops on the kitchen counters are essential for creating the perfect Tuscan kitchen.
Also visit these websites for more information:
No comments on this post yet.