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The Tuscan style takes its name and traditions from the region of Tuscany, a hilly area in central Italy. This decorative approach relies heavily on natural elements that are indigenous to that region.
It is also a very simple style, with rustic, functional pieces being the most common furnishings. The emphasis is on durable material and designs, and pieces that will last for centuries. You should try to focus on natural elements when striving to create a Tuscan style. Draw from the features of the land itself. Tuscany is rich with a variety of natural stones. Travertine and sandstone allow you to create an aged look while polished marble in flooring and mosaics can add a bit of sophistication to the design. The use of slate in coffee tables and as kitchen flooring is a great way to add a splash of color to your rooms.
Natural hardwoods are also good elements and can be used in floors and interiors. Many Tuscan inspired homes will feature hardwood floors with wide planks, matched with natural wood furnishings to compliment the space. Although wrought iron is a man made material it is associated with a rustic, basic manufacturing process.
It has been with us for thousands of years, and has a rich and lustrous history which lends itself to a Tuscan decorating style. Wrought iron furnishings are very common, and can range from bistro tables to decorative pieces. The walls in a Tuscan home are generally painted with a very reserved white or gray color. In some cases the interior can also be covered in a hardwood or natural stone veneer. The backdrop remains a neutral while accessories become the color contrasting focal points in this arrangement. The main colors found in a Tuscan decorating style are earth tones, browns, tan colors, terra cotta, and brick tones. You also find a lot of natural greens and rich golden hues. Blue can be used throughout as an accent color and faded reds can create a sense of elegant history. A Tuscan home also tends to feature outdoor spaces.
Patios, lawns, and yards are all important, and windows should be used to connect them to the rest of the home. Traditional outdoor furnishings are going to be made from hardwood, natural stone, and wrought iron, and these pieces can be matched with similar furnishings indoors. All of the furnishings should be simple, sturdy, and functional. Avoid ostentation, and instead search for pieces that will last a lifetime. In fact many people will take new items and distress them in order to give them a more “Tuscan” feel. Distressed décor is all about the piece having individual personality. Tuscan décor is a popular style that features simplicity and natural elements.
It hearkens back to a quieter, less complex age, where things were built to last a lifetime. By taking elements from the pastoral landscape of Tuscany, you can create an environment which is both warm and welcoming. This article is brought to you be PebbleZ’s line of natural stone cocktail tables which are hand crafted in the united states from real earth born materials. The article itself was written by stone designer Joey Pebble.
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