Tuscan Style Interior Design

Tuscan style interior design draws its inspiration from the country homes of the rolling hills of central Italy's wine country. The rustic farmhouses of this region were, traditionally, made out of easily available materials: straw, limestone, clay, and wood. Tuscan design reflects this simplicity.

Colors

The colors of the Tuscan countryside are the centerpiece of this design style. Soft lavender evokes the fields of lavender grown for the perfume industry there. Sunflower yellow, deep red, and bright orange come from the sun-filled days. The deep, azure blue comes from the pure blue sky. White, ranging from pure white to slightly yellow, linen white reflects the dazzling sunlight shining through the windows. Gentle green mirrors the rolling, grassy meadows. Tuscan style mimics the life of rural Italy: carefree, relaxed, and friendly.

Textures

The walls of an Tuscan style house may be lime-washed, timber-beamed, or roughly plastered. Again, the aim is to capture the feel of a country farmhouse. Wall colors are natural in shades of local stone and clay, from mustard to a red, dusty clay color. Stenciling on the walls, perhaps a wheat shaft design, may be used to add interest.

Floors

As with the walls, floors typical of the countryside are used to create Italian country style. Clay tiles, in shades of pink, honey, or deep brown, are common. So are wooden parquet floors rubbed with white paint to achieve an aged look. Natural reed matting or Oriental, Turkish, or Indian rugs over wooden floors are other options.

Lighting

Lighting is also important to this look. Think of large, multi-paned windows filled with natural sunlight. To impart this feeling, use soft, shaded lighting. Table lamps should be unobtrusive. Chandeliers and door hardware is typically rustic iron or distressed brass. Think of horse gear in an old, country barn.

The Fabrics of Tuscan Style Interior Design

Cotton and lace are the definitive fabrics of Tuscan style interior design. Lace curtains, tablecloths, and pillowcases predominate. Starched damasks and chintz are widely used for upholstery, and floral toile de jouy patterns are common for draperies. Again, the colors are lavender, mustard, russet, deep cherry, and buff.

Furniture

Furniture, too, reflects farmhouse living. Handcrafted, wooden pieces define typify country style. In the 18th and 19th centuries, craftsmen came from all over the world to the ports of the Mediterranean and the Adriatic seas. Skilled furniture makers carved large buffets, chairs, tables, and storage boxes with the motifs of the region: corn, olives, lavender, myrtle leaves, and music. Since houses of that era had no closets, large armoires were popular for storing clothes. Furniture makers used the woods that were cheap and plentiful – walnut and pine. Another centerpiece of an Tuscan style home is a large, wooden, dining table. Since the kitchen was the hub of activity in a farmhouse, this table was very important. The ideal country table is sturdy, rectangular, and large with simple lines and lots of eating space. Mismatched, high-back, wooden chairs with woven, reed seats are the perfect accompaniment.

Accessories

Accessories in an Italian country home should be kept simple and useful. In the original farmhouse, there was little money for frivolous items. Colorfully painted, earthenware crocks; shiny, copper pots; natural, reed baskets; sturdy, wooden wine racks; iron baker’s racks; are commonly used.

Tuscan style interior design is a great choice for a kitchen, bedroom, or dining room. By combining natural materials, earthy colors, and simple lines, Tuscan style interior design will turn your home into a cheerful, sunny refuge.