mediterranean interior design style guide

Whether you’re looking to evoke memories of warm and carefree European summer holidays in your own home or simply give your interiors a rustic refresh, Mediterranean interior design is a great source of inspiration. A warm and relaxing interior décor style and the perfect way to bring a sense of calm to your home, Mediterranean style décor is great for any room and is ideal for those looking for a simple yet stylish interior theme.

If you’re interested in upgrading your home with Mediterranean interiors and you’re looking for some inspiration, this guide has just what you need. In this interior design style guide we’ll explore the characteristics of the Mediterranean home aesthetic and take a closer look at how the style is incorporated in Italian, Spanish, and Greek Mediterranean décor. 

• Mediterranean décor: The basics
• Italian interior design
• Spanish interior design
• Greek interior design

Mediterranean décor: The basics

If you’re considering updating your interiors with this trend, you’ll first want to do your research on the specifics of Mediterranean style décor so you can create a comprehensive South European aesthetic in your home. Here, we’ll take a closer look at the characteristics of Mediterranean décor and the different varieties of the trend.

What is Mediterranean interior style?

Mediterranean interior design is a style inspired by the countries and cultures that surround the Mediterranean Sea, such as Italy, Spain, Greece, Turkey, and Morocco. This design style is characterised by its warm and inviting atmosphere, as well as outdoor living. It reflects the relaxed and casual lifestyle of coastal regions and often incorporates elements of the sea, sun, and nature.

Mediterranean style décor first rose to popularity in the 1920s when it spread across the pond to the US. Due to the style’s focus on outdoor living, it became popular in warmer southern states, such as California and Florida. However, in more recent years, the interiors trend has been used in houses across the globe, including in colder climates like here in the UK.

Characteristics of Mediterranean interiors

There are a wide range of types of Mediterranean interiors trends, however most of these sub-styles share the same or similar characteristics. Below are some of the key features of the Mediterranean interiors style: 

• Earthy colour palette: Mediterranean interiors typically use warm, light, and earthy colours inspired by the natural surroundings, such as terracotta, sandy beige, ocean blue, and olive green. White and light neutral shades are also often used, as these absorb less heat in warm Mediterranean climates.  
• Natural materials: The use of natural materials is essential in this style. You'll find plenty of wood, stone, and terracotta in flooring, furniture, and accents.
• Natural light: Sunlight is essential in Mediterranean homes. Windows are designed to allow maximum light penetration, and sheer curtains or shutters are often used to control the intensity of the light.
• Coastal influences: Given its proximity to the sea, Mediterranean design often includes coastal elements, such as seashells, maritime artwork, and blue-and-white colour schemes.
• Textured surfaces: Textures play a significant role in Mediterranean design. Plastered walls, textured tiles, and stucco exteriors are common elements.
• Greenery: Indoor plants and herbs are commonly used to bring the natural beauty of the outdoors inside.

Mediterranean décor in your home

We now know the characteristics of the trend, but how exactly can you incorporate the style in your own home? Below we’ve given you some Mediterranean décor ideas for the rooms in your home for some inspiration when it comes to updating your own interiors.

Kitchen and dining room

The kitchen is often the heart of the home in Mediterranean households, so it’s a great place to start incorporating the trend in your own home. Warm, earthy, and inviting shades are perfect for this style, and you can incorporate them in a number of ways, from making larger changes to your kitchen flooring and tiles, to smaller but still significant additions, such as plates, bowls, and serveware. We have a variety of neutral shades of ceramics here at Denby for your Mediterranean-style kitchen, including Linen, Impression Cream, Natural Canvas, and Kiln by Denby. 

You can also add some simple yet stylish Mediterranean table decorations. A floral bouquet displayed in a ceramic jug can add a rustic Mediterranean charm to the dining area, and you can use woven placemats to incorporate different textures.

Living room

Just like with the kitchen, your colour palette is key when creating a Mediterranean-inspired living room. You may want a mix of neutrals such as beige and white, and brighter Mediterranean shades like ocean blue, olive green, and warm orange and red shades. These can be incorporated in rugs, cushions, and other soft furnishings, as well as on your walls and in smaller room essentials, such as coasters.

You can incorporate natural materials through furnishings, such as with wooden tables and rattan chairs. Greenery is another key characteristic of this interior style, so consider adding more houseplants to the room or displaying flowers in a stylish ceramic vase. 

Bedroom

When it comes to Mediterranean inspired interiors in the bedroom, try to choose bedding in shades of white, cream, or soft blue. Not only do these fit the theme perfectly, but these are calming colours making them ideal for your sleeping environment. Consider using lightweight fabrics such as linen or cotton to create a breezy, relaxed vibe. Decorative throw pillows with Mediterranean-inspired patterns or textures can also enhance the look of the room, as can small decorative items that tie the theme together, such as coastal-inspired accessories like seashells and driftwood.

Bathroom 

When decorating the bathroom with Mediterranean home décor, keep in mind that sometimes less is more with this style of interiors. You can use storage solutions made out of natural materials, such as rattan or bamboo, to create a clutter-free, relaxing space. That’s not to say that you should completely avoid décor in the bathroom however — decorating with houseplants is a great way to bring natural elements in and a scented candle can make the room feel incredibly zen and an ideal space for pamper sessions.

Types of Mediterranean interior design style

When discussing Mediterranean interiors, we often think of one overarching theme and style. However, there are actually a variety of different types of interiors inspired by this corner of the world. The traditional version of this interior theme is somewhat eclectic, with a wide mixture of earth-inspired shades and patterns. However, in recent years we’ve seen a more modern Mediterranean interior design style emerge. This trend takes the rustic charm and earthy and neutral hues of traditional Mediterranean interiors and combines these characteristics with aspects of minimalism. In modern Mediterranean style houses, clutter tends to be kept at a minimum and focuses more on simplicity. This is a great option for those looking to incorporate a clean, fresh interior style with rustic charm.

Not only are there both traditional and contemporary variations of this interior style, but each Mediterranean country has a different take on the home aesthetic. To give you even more inspiration, we’re going to take a look at three of the most iconic Mediterranean interior styles and explore ways you can incorporate them into your own home.

Italian interior design

Italians are known for their style, so it’s no surprise that Italian interior design is one of the most popular types of Mediterranean aesthetics. Here we’ll go through exactly what makes Italian interior design unique and look at how you can take inspiration for your home.

Characteristics of Italian décor 

Mediterranean-style Italian interior design is heavily influenced by the wider Mediterranean interiors trend, but does have some distinctive features which set it apart from the rest. Below are a few common characteristics found in Italian décor to help you emulate the homes on the Adriatic coast:

• Colours: While neutrals are a staple of Mediterranean interior design as a whole, they are particularly prominent in Italian-style interiors. White is a popular choice for walls in Italian homes, and shades like cream, beige, and sandstone are also often used.
•  Artwork: The home country of Da Vinci and Michelangelo, it’s no surprise that high-quality artwork and ornaments are a key part of Italian interiors. From ornamental serving plates to canvas paintings, incorporating these in your home is a great way to emulate the Italian aesthetic.
• Wood furnishings: Italian wood furniture is known around the world for its excellent quality and design, and it’s a key part of Italian Mediterranean décor. Walnut, cedar, and chestnut are three commonly used woods for furniture in the country.
• Quality: In Italy, it is common for people to spend more on higher quality goods, whether this is clothing, food, or homeware. Investing in more durable, reliable products is the Italian way.
• Luxury rustic: Mediterranean interior design is rustic, and Italian interior style is no exception. However, in Italy, this rustic simplicity is also often mixed with luxurious décor to create an eclectic mixture of these two styles.

Italian dinner table ideas

Food is a very important part of Italian culture, and for many Italians socialising around the dinner table is one of the main parts of the day. This is why focussing on your tables and table setting ideas is so important when trying to emulate the distinct Italian Mediterranean aesthetic in your kitchen or dining room. 

Coastal-inspired shades of blue and green are sure to be welcome on an Italian table, as well as of course an array of warm neutrals. If you’re looking to incorporate these colours in your tableware, our Regency Green and Mediterranean-inspired Azure ranges are sure to be a welcome addition to your tablescape. You could complement these colourful plates and bowls with neutral table linen. 

As already mentioned, mixing rustic and luxury is a key element of Italian interiors. If you’re looking to incorporate this eclectic mix at the dining table, consider investing in high-quality glasses, such as crystal, to add a touch of luxury to your mealtimes. For your table décor, consider having a natural centrepiece in a vase or jug to bring the outside in. 

These Italian table decorating ideas are sure to help you elevate your interiors, but if you’re looking to capture the true Italian feel in your kitchen, you’ll want to set up a feast of some of the country’s best dishes. Check out the pizza menu section of our summer food blog post for some inspiration for Italian mealtimes. 

Spanish interior design

If you’re looking to add a little more colour to your Mediterranean-style interiors, you may want to take some inspiration from the Spanish home aesthetic. Below we’ll explore how you can incorporate this look in your own home.

Characteristics of Spanish interior design

Interior design in Spain is a bolder, more vibrant variation of the wider trend than Italian-style Mediterranean interiors. It’s ideal for those who want brighter and more lively home décor. Below are some of the key characteristics of Spanish interior design to give you inspiration for using the style in your own home:

Colour scheme: Warm earthy shades such as terracotta, ochre, and deep reds are popular in the Spanish home aesthetic, as well as more vibrant pops of colour like bright yellows, oranges, and sometimes pinks. These shades work well with warm toned neutrals and can be incorporated in a variety of ways, from walls to soft furnishings to ornaments. 

• Patterns and textures: In Spanish style homes, a key part of interior design is an eclectic mix of patterns and textures. Colourful mosaic style patterns are popular in Spanish interior design, and textured wall finishes such as stucco are often used to add depth and variety to a room. 
• Tiles: Spanish tiles, known as "azulejos", are a hallmark of the country's interior design. These tiles often feature vibrant colours and intricate patterns, adorning walls, floors, and even staircases.
• Ceramics and pottery: Handcrafted ceramics and pottery are frequently used for both decoration and practical purposes in Spanish interiors. These pieces can range from functional kitchenware to ornamental vases and dishes.
• Rustic accents: Spanish décor embraces a slightly rustic and weathered look. Distressed wood, patina finishes, and aged metals are commonly used to add character and a sense of history to the space.
• Wood and iron: Heavy use of wood and wrought iron is common in Spanish interiors. Exposed wooden beams on ceilings, rustic wooden furniture, and iron light fixtures contribute to the traditional and cosy atmosphere.

Spanish dinner table ideas

If you’re looking to enjoy vibrant and lively family meals, a Spanish style dinner table is sure to be the perfect setting. A warm colour scheme with vibrant pops is a good way to emulate this aesthetic, and can be incorporated in a number of ways, from your table linen to your dinnerware sets. Our Sorbet Pink and Heritage Piazza come in warm pink shades well suited to this theme. Our Impression Pink range also has a selection of patterned plates which will blend in seamlessly with the Spanish aesthetic.

Alternatively, you may prefer to add pops of colour through your tablecloth and décor, in which case our neutral ceramics will perfectly complement these brighter shades. Denby’s Heritage Veranda selection offers ceramics in warm and rustic neutral tones, and the range also includes patterned plates and mugs which are sure to complement your Spanish style table setting. 

For your Spanish table décor, arranging a bright floral centrepiece in a ceramic vase or jug is a great way to bring the table together, and you can add a few candles to create a more intimate atmosphere. If you’re looking for an alternative centrepiece, you could try making one of your own using fruit. Fruits like lemons and oranges can easily be turned into centrepieces in a large bowl and are ideal for adding both a natural touch and a bright pop of colour to the table.

To make the most of the Spanish aesthetic of your table, why not enjoy some authentic Spanish cuisine too? Tapas is a staple of this country’s cuisine and is a great way to enjoy a variety of dishes. We have a selection of serving platters, plate sets, and bowl sets for serving your tapas in style. 

Greek interior design

The country many of us consider to be the most quintessentially Mediterranean, Greece is a fantastic source of interior design inspiration. But how can you emulate the Greek aesthetic in your own home?

Characteristics of Greece’s interior aesthetic

Just like Spanish and Italian interior design, Greek home décor has its own twist on the Mediterranean theme. Practical and rustic, but with plenty of elegant designs and unique patterns, it’s an ideal interiors trend for those looking to combine function with style. Here are some of the main characteristics for you to consider when looking to replicate the Greek interior aesthetic in your own home:

• Neutral and blue colour palette: Greek interior design tends to favour a neutral colour palette, including whites, creams, greys, and earthy tones. This colour scheme enhances the timeless element of the design. A range of deep and vibrant blue shades are also commonly associated with the Greek aesthetic, representing the interior style’s coastal influence. This is a slightly cooler colour scheme than Italian- or Spanish-style interiors, but the palette still has a welcoming and homely feel. 
• Natural light: Greek homes often feature large windows and doors that allow ample natural light to enter. This creates an airy and bright atmosphere, which is further enhanced by the light colour palette.
• Geometric patterns: Geometric patterns and motifs are common across Greek décor. These can be seen in floor mosaics, pottery and ceramic designs, and even in the layout of buildings and their components.
• Functional furnishings: The Greek aesthetic emphasises functionality when it comes to furniture design. Furniture pieces are typically straightforward and serve their purpose well, with a simple yet elegant appearance. Natural materials are also often used in Greek furniture. Wooden pieces with clean lines and gentle curves are especially popular. 
• Lightweight fabrics: As it is such a hot country, it is no surprise that lightweight fabrics are a staple of Grecian design. 
• Nautical touches: Given Greece's strong connection to the sea, some Greek home décor incorporates nautical elements such as shells, anchors, and blue accents reminiscent of the Mediterranean waters.

Greek themed table settings and ideas

Greek themed table settings generally have a colour palette of light and neutral shades, with pops of blue to replicate the country’s iconic blue and white interiors colour scheme. A great way to replicate this in your own home is to opt for white table linen and add splashes of blue through table decorations, such as vases, and through your tableware. We have a fantastic range of shades of blue to choose from here at Denby, including our timeless Imperial Blue collection. Here we offer a selection of white plates with a deep blue trim, which you can also find in our Blue Haze and Elements Dark Blue collections. We also offer lighter shades of blue in our Elements Blue, Heritage Terrace, and Everyday Pale Blue lines. If you’re looking for the perfect glassware, we offer a selection of glasses with blue stems for your Greek inspired table setting with in our Denby glassware range.

For your Greek table setting decorations, a great place to take inspiration from is the country’s natural elements. Olives are a key part of Greek culture, from being enjoyed as a mezze dish to Greek olive oil. To make this cultural staple a part of your table setting, you could create an olive branch centrepiece. This can be done by making a garland of the branches, or simply displaying them in a high-quality vase (or a jug if you’re looking to accentuate the rustic element of Greek interiors).

To enjoy a true taste of Greece living in your own home, complete your Greek themed table setting by enjoying a mezze spread. Similar to tapas, mezze is a wide selection of dishes which allows you to enjoy a bit of everything with your meal. You can use a selection of small plates and bowls to serve your dishes, as well as ramekins for hummus and olive oil for dipping, and a chopping board for serving your focaccia — you can find a high-quality wooden chopping board in our kitchen essentials collection. Don’t worry if you have a mismatched array of serveware, as this can add to the classic rustic charm of the Greek aesthetic.

Mediterranean interior design is a classic and timeless style and is sure to be the perfect fit for your home. Whether you prefer the neutral and luxurious Italian variation, the warm and cheerful Spanish style, or the cool and rustic Greek aesthetic, don’t forget to use this guide for inspiration when recreating the interior trend in your own home.

We have a variety of products here at Denby which perfectly complement Mediterranean style aesthetics, from our plates, bowls, serveware, and glassware, to our wide variety of home décor and table linen. In a selection of colourful shades of green, blue, and pink, as well as neutral options, we’ve got the perfect products for your Mediterranean colour scheme. Explore our full range today.

Looking for even more home interiors inspiration? Check out our guides to the cottagecore aesthetic and coastal inspired interior design.