Style Spotlight: Tuscan Design

When Tuscany comes to mind, images of vineyards, old stone homes, and beautiful woodwork are recalled. Perhaps this is why the Tuscan style of interior design is so popular. It’s vintage European, old world, and of course, wine is involved.

Although Tuscan style may come from an older era, it most definitely does not represent a simpler time. Its influences are true: Imagine ornate carvings in olive wood, huge wine jugs painted in rich colors, an enormous wood-burning oven, an elaborate hand-pump for washing, and an immense tub for soaking. These are some visions to consider when looking for inspiration for a Tuscan style design.

Appliances

This isn’t a time to think “sleek and modern.” Consider appliances with large handles and elements. Think about choosing one in a darker finish, like copper, bronze, black or even a pop of a darker hue, like red.

When you picture your range, remember that woodburning oven and pair it with a large oven hood.

Faucets

Picture an old hand pump, in an opulent copper, its handles ornamentally styled. Use this as your inspiration when choosing a Tuscan-style faucet.

Sinks

Consider cast iron, porcelain, or enamel for an authentic look and feel. Choose a sink which is deep enough to accommodate your needs and wide enough to suit the Tuscan style you’ve chosen.

Cabinets and Hardware

When choosing cabinets, consider light or darker woods, but not white. When it comes to hardware, favor heavier pulls and knobs and perhaps elaborate designs in darker colors.

Flooring

Terrazzo is the epitome of Tuscan flooring. Large tiles in earthy yellows and oranges often brighten can be an otherwise neutral color palette. Experiment with brick and terra cotta tile as well, in your flooring and other places in your kitchen.

Lighting

Tuscan lighting will be gilded without being showy. Choose lighting with frames made of materials like wrought iron, copper, and brass.

Rugs and Decor

Rugs and decor are, as always, a way to personalize and add more color to your space. With Tuscan style, rugs are generally a floral pattern and, less often, a geometric pattern. Choose one that coordinates with your color palette, while brightening the area.

When it comes to decor, continue with the “large” theme. Experiment with oversized vases, baskets, and jugs. Try heavy, gilded framed landscapes and mirrors. Don’t forget that the Tuscany region is known for its wine, and draw inspiration from that as well.

Furniture

Couches and chairs can be oversized or just right, but never small with this design style. Living room furniture is often leather and accented by colorful pillows. Tables are grand enough to feed a large Italian family, sometimes topped with a marble finish.

Consider a fireplace in the main living area, shop for one which is expansive enough to anchor the room.

Wine Not?

Of course, no Tuscan style home would be complete without a bar area. Whether it’s a bar cart, an under-counter wine refrigerator, or something even more elaborate, pay homage to Tuscany with a designated wine area in your home.