Mediterranean Interior Design
Sun-drenched elegance inspired by coastal European living
Mediterranean design captures the warmth and beauty of sun-drenched coastal regions—from Italian villas to Spanish haciendas to Greek island homes. This romantic style features warm earth tones, textured walls, wrought iron details, terracotta tiles, and an emphasis on indoor-outdoor living. The aesthetic is timeless, comfortable, and infused with the relaxed elegance of coastal European and North African cultures.
Key Characteristics
Mediterranean style emerged from the building traditions of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, where thick walls, tiled floors, and courtyard designs evolved to manage hot climates. In America, the style gained popularity through California's Spanish Revival of the 1920s-30s and Florida's Mediterranean Revival. Today, it remains beloved for its warmth, romance, and connection to old-world craftsmanship.
- Warm earth-toned color palettes
- Terracotta tiles and natural stone
- Textured stucco or plaster walls
- Wrought iron details and fixtures
- Arched doorways and windows
- Wood beam ceilings
- Indoor-outdoor living connection
- Handcrafted tiles and mosaics
Color Palette
Accent Colors
Colors to Avoid
Materials & Textures
Key Materials
- Terracotta tiles
- Natural stone (travertine, limestone)
- Wrought iron
- Stucco and plaster
- Exposed wood beams
- Hand-painted ceramic tiles
- Rustic wood furniture
- Linen and cotton fabrics
Patterns
- Hand-painted tile patterns
- Mosaic designs
- Mediterranean florals
- Geometric tile work
- Paisley and scrollwork
Textures
- Rough plaster walls
- Smooth terracotta
- Hammered metal
- Rustic wood grain
- Woven textiles
Furniture & Decor
Signature Furniture
- Heavy wooden dining tables
- Wrought iron beds
- Leather-topped desks
- Carved wooden cabinets
- Cushioned iron chairs
- Stone-topped consoles
- Upholstered benches
Decor Elements
- Ceramic vases and urns
- Wrought iron wall decor
- Olive branches and greenery
- Hand-painted tiles
- Mediterranean artwork
- Iron candleholders
- Terracotta planters
- Woven baskets
Lighting Style
Wrought iron chandeliers and lanterns are quintessential. Add table lamps with ceramic or iron bases, candle sconces, and hurricane lanterns. Natural light is essential—large windows and doors connecting to outdoor spaces are key to the style.
Best Rooms for Mediterranean Style
Explore how Mediterranean style works in different rooms with tailored tips and AI prompts.
Space & Budget Guidance
Small Spaces
Use the warm color palette to make small spaces cozy rather than cramped. Mirrors with wrought iron frames expand the space visually. Choose smaller-scale furniture but maintain Mediterranean materials. One accent wall of hand-painted tiles can make a big statement.
Large Spaces
Large spaces suit Mediterranean style naturally—think grand European villas. Use substantial furniture, large wrought iron chandeliers, and generous textiles. Create distinct zones with area rugs. Don't be afraid of statement pieces like a massive wooden dining table or iron canopy bed.
Budget-Friendly Tips
Focus on paint and textiles—the warm color palette is free to implement. Shop HomeGoods and World Market for Mediterranean-inspired accessories. DIY faux finishing techniques can create textured wall effects. Thrift stores often have wrought iron pieces. Use inexpensive terracotta pots for greenery.
Luxury Approach
Source antique wrought iron fixtures from European dealers. Install authentic terracotta or hand-painted tiles throughout. Commission custom plaster wall finishes. Invest in antique Mediterranean furniture. Consider architectural additions like arched doorways or exposed beams.
Related Styles
If you like Mediterranean, you might also enjoy these styles.
Frequently Asked Questions
Design Your Mediterranean Space
Transform any room into Mediterranean style in seconds with Decor8 AI.