Exploring Some of My Favorite Design Styles: Mediterranean Revival and Spanish Revival
Exploring Some of My Favorite Design Styles: Mediterranean Revival and Spanish Revival
When it comes to interior design, I find that some styles resonate more deeply than others, creating spaces that feel warm, inviting, and timeless. Two of those are Mediterranean Revival and Spanish Revival. Both styles are rich in history, cultural influences, and natural beauty, but they each offer a unique approach to design, blending elements from the old world with a relaxed, comfortable sensibility. Today, I’ll dive into how these two iconic design styles are being used in modern kitchen and bathroom renovations to create spaces that are both functional and full of character.
Mediterranean Revival: A Sun-Drenched, Timeless Style
Inspired by the countries surrounding the Mediterranean Sea—like Italy, Spain, Greece, and Morocco—Mediterranean Revival style embodies a relaxed yet sophisticated atmosphere. The style is known for its connection to nature, an abundance of natural light, and a combination of luxurious and rustic elements. I’m particularly drawn to its warm, earthy tones, intricate tilework, and elegant yet lived-in feel, making it a perfect choice for both kitchen and bath renovations.
Mediterranean Revival in Kitchen Renovations:
When renovating a kitchen in the Mediterranean Revival style, the goal is to create a space that feels open, airy, and inviting. These kitchens often serve as the heart of the home, blending rustic charm with modern functionality. Here are a few key elements I love in Mediterranean kitchen renovations:
Hand-Painted Tile Backsplashes: One of the most iconic features of Mediterranean kitchens is the use of hand-painted ceramic tiles. In a Mediterranean kitchen, the backsplash is often where the eye is drawn. Imagine colorful tiles in shades of blue, yellow, and green, forming intricate patterns or floral designs.
Wood and Stone Materials: Mediterranean kitchens often feature a mix of rustic materials, such as wooden beams, stone countertops, and terracotta tiles. These natural elements evoke the feel of the Mediterranean countryside, where earthy tones and textures reign supreme. I love the look of stone used for countertops or islands, offering durability while creating a luxurious, organic feel.
Open Shelving and Rustic Charm: Mediterranean kitchens are often designed to feel welcoming and lived-in, with open shelving that displays everything from decorative bowls to fresh herbs in terracotta pots. The warm, rustic wood shelving adds a touch of charm while remaining practical for everyday use. Pair this with wrought iron accents—such as in light fixtures or cabinet hardware—and you’ve got a perfect Mediterranean-inspired kitchen that feels both timeless and functional.
Mediterranean Revival in Bathroom Renovations:
The bathroom is another area where Mediterranean Revival style shines. In the bathroom, the goal is to create a space that feels relaxing, sophisticated, and connected to nature. Here’s how Mediterranean elements come to life in bathroom renovations:
Colorful Tiles and Mosaic Patterns: Just like in kitchens, the use of hand-painted tiles is a key feature in Mediterranean bathrooms. Mosaic tiles in all shades of blues, rich reds, and vibrant greens can create a stunning backdrop in the shower or around the vanity. These tiles often feature intricate patterns that mimic the coastal landscapes of the Mediterranean, adding both color and texture to the room.
Freestanding Bathtubs and Elegant Fixtures: A freestanding clawfoot tub is often a central feature in a Mediterranean-style bathroom. The elegant curves of the tub, paired with vintage-style faucets and decorative mirrors, create a luxurious, old-world feel that’s perfect for relaxing. These fixtures evoke the beauty of Mediterranean villas, where bathtime becomes an indulgent escape.
Natural Light and Soft, Earthy Tones: Mediterranean bathrooms often maximize natural light, with large windows or skylights letting sunlight pour into the space. The color palette is typically soft and neutral, with shades of terracotta, sand, and soft whites, allowing the room to feel bright and serene.
Spanish Revival: Rustic Elegance Meets Colonial Charm
The Spanish Revival style is inspired by the Spanish colonial architecture found in California and other parts of the southwestern United States. It combines old-world charm with rustic elegance, blending Spanish, Moorish, and Mediterranean influences. Spanish Revival design often incorporates bold, earthy colors, handcrafted materials, and a sense of warmth that immediately makes a space feel welcoming.
Spanish Revival in Kitchen Renovations:
Spanish Revival kitchens are rich in texture and detail, offering a sense of history while also embracing the practicality of modern living. Here’s how Spanish Revival elements come together in kitchen renovations:
Saltillo Tiles and Terrazzo Flooring: One of the most iconic elements of a Spanish Revival kitchen is the use of Saltillo tiles. These handmade terracotta tiles are often used for flooring or as a backsplash in the kitchen. Their warm, earthy tones add a rustic yet sophisticated charm to the space.
Iron and Wood Accents: Spanish Revival kitchens often feature wrought iron elements, from light fixtures to cabinet hardware. These pieces bring a touch of Mediterranean elegance and contrast beautifully with the warmth of wooden cabinets or beams. I love the rustic appeal of exposed wooden beams on the ceiling, which give the space an authentic Spanish feel and create a sense of openness and airiness.
Bold Color Palettes and Decorative Details: Spanish Revival kitchens embrace vibrant colors, often drawing inspiration from the sun-drenched landscapes of Spain. In the kitchen, you might see deep oranges, bright reds, and turquoise used in accents like ceramic pottery or tilework. Hand-painted tiles with intricate geometric patterns can be used as a backsplash or to frame the stove, adding a pop of color and artistry.
Spanish Revival in Bathroom Renovations:
Spanish Revival bathrooms are all about creating a sense of old-world charm while providing modern comfort. This style often features natural materials, bold patterns, and a sense of elegance that feels at once rustic and refined.
Mosaic Tiles and Colorful Accents: Like Mediterranean bathrooms, Spanish Revival bathrooms often incorporate mosaic tiles, but with a bolder, more dramatic flair. I love the idea of using colorful or patterned tiles in the shower or around the bathtub to add vibrancy and texture. Spanish Revival bathrooms often feature a mix of bold hues like deep reds, turquoise, and golden yellows, creating a warm and inviting space.
Handcrafted Sinks and Fixtures: The use of handcrafted pottery for sinks or accessories is another key element in Spanish Revival bathrooms. These clay or ceramic sinks, often in earthy tones, bring a rustic, artisanal touch to the space. Pair these with wrought iron light fixtures or towel racks, and you’ve got a bathroom that feels both rustic and refined.
Wood and Tile Accents: Spanish Revival bathrooms often feature wooden vanities or cabinetry, paired with decorative tiles on the floor or as accents on the walls. These materials bring warmth and richness to the space, while decorative mirrors and vintage-style faucets help to elevate the design and create a sense of timeless elegance.
Mediterranean Revival vs. Spanish Revival: Which One Fits Your Style?
While Mediterranean Revival and Spanish Revival share some similarities—such as their reliance on natural materials and earthy color palettes—they each have their own distinct flavor. Mediterranean Revival tends to embrace lighter tones, airy spaces, and intricate, colorful tilework that evokes a more coastal, European feel. Spanish Revival, on the other hand, leans more toward bold, rustic colors, artisan craftsmanship, and a deeper connection to colonial Spanish influences.
Both styles are ideal for creating timeless kitchen and bathroom renovations that reflect warmth, heritage, and authenticity. Whether you’re drawn to the sun-soaked elegance of the Mediterranean or the earthy richness of Spanish Revival, both offer the opportunity to craft a home that feels connected to the past while embracing modern sensibilities.
Color in Design: No More Grey – Bold and Natural Hues Are In
Color in Design: No More Grey – Bold and Natural Hues Are In
Gone are the days of sterile, uninspired interiors dominated by endless shades of grey. While neutral tones once ruled the design world, they’re now making way for something more exciting, vibrant, and—dare we say—alive. Bold, natural colors are taking center stage in both interior and graphic design, bringing warmth, energy, and personality into every space and project.
So why the shift? What’s behind the growing rejection of dull, cold greys in favor of vivid and earthy tones? Let’s dive into this colorful design revolution and explore why it’s time to say goodbye to the greys of yesterday and embrace the bold and natural colors of today.
The Rise of Bold and Natural Colors
Grey has long been a staple in modern design. Its versatility made it a go-to neutral, perfect for creating sleek, minimalistic environments or a sophisticated backdrop in offices and homes. However, in recent years, there's been a shift away from this cool, restrained palette toward more expressive, earthy, and bold tones. Why? There are several reasons:
The Call for Warmth and Comfort: After years of living in minimalist, monochrome spaces, people are craving warmth. Natural colors like terracotta, olive green, mustard yellow, deep burgundy, and even rich ochre offer a sense of grounding, comfort, and connection to the outdoors. In the wake of global crises, many are looking for design elements that make them feel rooted and emotionally at ease. Soft neutrals and grey tones can feel isolating and cold; earthy, rich colors, on the other hand, evoke feelings of coziness and invite connection.
Reconnection with Nature: We’ve all been spending more time indoors in recent years, whether it’s because of the pandemic, remote work, or a desire to retreat into our homes for rest. As a result, there’s been a growing demand for nature-inspired color schemes that reflect the world outside our windows. Green hues reminiscent of forests, blues like clear skies, warm browns like wood, and deep terracotta tones reminiscent of sunsets offer a sense of serenity and balance that greys simply can’t.
Bold Colors for Bold Personalities: People want their homes and spaces to reflect their individuality. There's a growing trend toward personalization in design, with more and more people opting for vibrant, bold colors that make a statement. Whether it's a rich teal accent tile, a mustard yellow armchair, or a bright red piece of art, these colors inject life and personality into a room, helping to create an environment that feels uniquely theirs.
Breaking Away from Monotony: Let’s face it: grey can sometimes feel uninspiring. While it's an excellent base, when overused, it can create spaces that feel monotonous or emotionally flat. Bold colors, by contrast, bring excitement, energy, and movement to a room. They can set the tone for an entire space—whether it’s a productive home office, a relaxing living room, or an uplifting kitchen. Rich, saturated hues allow designers to experiment and push boundaries, infusing spaces with fresh energy.
How to Incorporate Bold and Natural Colors
So how can you introduce these vibrant colors into your space without it feeling overwhelming? Here are a few tips to ensure you strike the right balance:
Start Small, Go Big Later: If you’re hesitant to completely ditch grey in favor of bold colors, start by adding smaller accents. A terracotta throw pillow, a mustard rug, or a rich emerald vase can add subtle pops of color. Once you’ve built confidence in how these hues affect the space, you can move on to larger elements like wall paint, furniture, or even a statement piece of art.
Mix Neutrals with Bold Tones: You don’t have to completely abandon all neutrals to embrace color. Mixing neutral tones with bold, earthy hues can create a perfect harmony. Think of deep blue walls with neutral beige furniture or olive green accents paired with soft whites. The contrast allows the bold colors to shine while maintaining a sense of balance.
Draw Inspiration from Nature: Nature’s color palette is rich, varied, and timeless. From the soft greens of a forest to the deep blues of the ocean, these colors naturally evoke calm and relaxation. Incorporating natural colors inspired by your favorite landscapes—whether it’s a desert palette of oranges, reds, and browns, or a coastal combo of seafoam greens and sandy tans—can help your home feel like a retreat.
Use Color Psychology: Don’t forget the emotional power of color! Bright colors like red and yellow can evoke energy and excitement, while softer tones like sage green and lavender encourage relaxation. Think about how you want to feel in a particular space. Is your bedroom a place of serenity? Try soft blues and light greys mixed with earthy accents. Is your kitchen a space for creativity? Bold reds, oranges, and deep greens may be just what you need.
Layering Textures with Color: Color and texture go hand in hand. Experiment with layering different textures in your bold color choices to add depth and dimension to your design. Velvet cushions in jewel tones, patterned rugs in warm hues, and matte-painted walls paired with glossy accents can create visual interest while maintaining a cohesive look.
The Future of Design: More Color, More Life
The future of design is clearly moving towards a more vibrant, nature-infused aesthetic. As people continue to seek ways to make their environments feel more personal, more connected, and more alive, bold and natural colors will remain at the forefront of this evolution. The days of grey-as-default are over. People want spaces that speak to their souls and reflect their individuality.
Whether you’re redesigning your home or rethinking your next branding project, consider embracing bold colors and letting nature’s palette guide you. These hues bring warmth, personality, and energy into spaces, creating environments that are not only visually stimulating but emotionally engaging as well.
In a world that often feels grey and cold, it's time for a little color—and a lot of life.