Mediterranean and Tuscan decorating styles share several similarities, because Italy’s Tuscany area lies along the shore of the Mediterranean. The main distinction is that Tuscan style is focused solely on influences from Italy, while Mediterranean decorating comprises components from other cultures, including Spanish, French, Moroccan, Turkish and Grecian impacts. A closer look at each style will be able to help you decide if either one makes a good fit for your private decor strategy.
Characteristics of Mediterranean Decor
Mediterranean decor’s main inspiration is derived from the natural splendor of the Mediterranean landscape and its mild, temperate climate. Vivid shades of green and blue reflect the hues of the Mediterranean Sea and sky. Earthy tones of warm terra-cotta, sand and burnt orange have been combined with whitewashed stone, along with lavender, yellow and other bright stone tones affected by vibrant Moroccan tile and tapestries. Spanish roof tiles and stucco walls offer a signature appearance in this style. Interiors contain an eclectic mix of Italian, Spanish, French and Moroccan fashion furniture and accessories. Interior courtyards and rooms which open to outside living spaces are common. Less common, but nevertheless considered Mediterranean fashion, are Greek-inspired interiors with more of a modern feel.
Tuscan Style Characteristics
Textured walls in hues of lotion, pale yellow or darker earthy tones of rust, burnt orange and also terra-cotta mimic the aged plaster walls of Tuscan farmhouses. Vibrant golds, earthy greens and also accents of blue, sunlit yellow and also bright pops of red reflect the natural colours of the Tuscan countryside. Terra-cotta tile or reclaimed wood provides a Tuscan texture to flooring. Tuscan furniture is pastoral, with natural wood finishes. Light-colored upholstery and simple window therapies with natural fabrics in neutral colours create a relaxed, comfortable atmosphere. Wall art in the form of framed prints, stencils, hand-painted tiles and custom murals features the scenic Tuscan countryside along with wine-inspired motifs. Wrought-iron candle holders, large earthenware vases, urns and vibrant Italian pottery give a completing touch.
Mediterranean Elements Absent From Tuscan Style
You won’t find many Moorish influences in Tuscan-style decor. While Moroccan lanterns or vibrant Alive poufs look at home in a Mediterranean-inspired room, then they’d look out of place in a Tuscan home. Predominantly white or blue-and-white color schemes, modern furnishings and signature Greek important patterns common in Greek Mediterranean design also seem far removed from traditional Tuscan interior decorating. Modern Mediterranean decorating tends to encompass transitional blends of modern and traditional furnishings, whereas Sliding decorating leans more toward Old World, traditional elements.
Choosing Between the Two
If you are thinking of a style makeover for your house and like the appearance of both of these similar yet different decorating styles, examine the items which make them different. If you adore the appearance of the Old World components but also prefer contemporary designs in your house, such as the sleek appearance of stainless steel kitchen appliances along with the lighter appearance of contemporary furniture, Mediterranean design makes a much better fit. But if you are more attracted to rustic furnishings and desire more of a country feel to your house, Tuscan decorating will suit you better.
