Italy is a universally popular country, one that most people have on their travel bucket lists, and a place where many would like to relocate and live after retirement. There are many things that make it as alluring as it is, ranging from its pleasant weather, the delicious foods, the stunning natural landscapes, and the overall beautiful and relaxing atmosphere. For many, it represents an ideal life, far away from the grind and packed schedules of daily life, and while that may be an idealized (and therefore somewhat unrealistic) idea, there’s no denying the feelings that Italy elicits in those who love it.
If Italy has captured your heart as well, you might be tempted to bring items reminiscent of it into your home, or change your interior design to be closer to the one that’s traditional in Italy. However, it’s important to realise that developments haven’t stagnated anywhere, and that innovations in both design and hardware can be found anywhere. If you want your kitchen to look great but be fully functional as well, here are some elements you should consider.
Tuscan design
When you’re thinking about the most iconic regions in Italy, Tuscany will most definitely be at the top of the list. Its rolling hills, picturesque vineyards, artistic legacy, and quaint medieval towns are so incredibly charming that they will be burned to your memory from the first time you see them. When it comes to kitchen designs, the features that stand out are the rustic and effortless looks. Italian styles are focused on clean lines and are typically quite minimal without feeling sterile and bland. The Tuscan style is warm and incorporates natural materials so that the space feels organic and homely.
Interior and exterior
The natural world has become one of the biggest trends in interior design over the last few years, as people are increasingly looking for ways to bring the outside inside and recreate the tranquillity of nature in their living spaces. Tuscan style is all about that as well, and there are several ways to do this. Rough-hewn stone, antique brick pavers, and wood posts (bonus points if they’re a little weathered) are the best way to bring the outdoors indoors. Solid wood kitchen units and upper cabinets will create that perfectly bucolic look that you’re trying to achieve and which is the cornerstone of Tuscan interiors. The materials shouldn’t look brand new, as imperfections are precisely the thing that will imbue them with their natural charm. This brings us to our next point, which is:
Embrace odd details
The rise of social media and influencer culture has created the mindset that things are not worthy or good unless they look perfect. Many people therefore end up throwing away perfectly good items in order to replace them with newer models. This leads to overconsumption and the creation of more waste, since you will have to throw things away in order to make room for the new ones you’re getting. This is ultimately an unsustainable lifestyle from both an environmental and a financial standpoint.
The Tuscan kitchen on the other hand is meant to be a warm and welcoming space that truly feels like home. Home décor and environments should have these characteristics, as a house that looks lived-in is realistic and charming compared to interior design that looks like it came straight from the pages of an interior design magazine and which, therefore, lacks personality. You can also rely on quirkier design choices that you personally enjoy and make you happy. After all, your kitchen should fit your personal taste first and foremost.
Flooring and countertops
Terracotta tiles will look perfect in any Tuscan kitchen, as they have a rustic, old-world charm that makes them the perfect flooring material. Terracotta is both subdued and rugged and fits Mediterranean designs like a glove. However, the material might not be a good idea if the region where you live experiences freezing temperatures on a regular basis since the water absorbed into the terracotta will leave the tiles susceptible to cracks. If you’re dealing with scorching temperatures, though, the terracotta will keep things cool.
Butcher-block countertops with a drop-in sink not only fit the classic kitchen design, they’re also sturdy and reliable. If you want to ensure you get something that will last for years, you can look into furniture grade wood tops, as they will be made from high-quality materials and created by professionals. Just make sure to include a finish that makes it waterproof and oil it regularly to maintain the shine.
Patterns, textures, and colors
One of the things that makes Tuscan kitchens so cosy is that the natural materials used create so many different textures and surfaces. Some of them will feel smooth, while others are rougher and grainy. For instance, adding linen curtains to stone window panes will mix the two textures and make the final result all the more interesting. Something that’s essential to remember is that the reliance on natural materials can make everything homogenous from a chromatic point of view, making your entire kitchen the same shade of brown. Tan hues are perfect for interiors due to their relaxing qualities, but it’s never a bad idea to mix and match things a little bit.
You can add a splashback in a contrasting tone, such as green. Your stove can also be an eye-catching cobalt blue that will bring a dramatic splash of colour that nonetheless doesn’t stick out like a sore thumb and throw off the balance of the composition.
Natural patina
Patina is the process through which materials change as a result of natural aging or as a result of exposure to the elements. Some signs of wear and tear are perfect for Tuscan kitchens, as they allude to the fact that the kitchen gets plenty of use and that it is employed for its standard process: the cooking, baking, and preparation of meals. A Tuscan kitchen will proudly wear all of its scars, so don’t be worried about it looking pristine. Shopping second-hand, whether for furniture or kitchen appliances, is perfectly acceptable as well. If you enjoy DIY, you can even make your own shelves that can hold your spices and seasonings.
I took a trip to Italy in 2023 and enjoyed traveling under the Tuscan sun seeing all the beautiful villas and Tuscan home decor.
If you’re looking to start a kitchen remodelling project, you should know that you can never go wrong with drawing inspiration from Tuscany. This timeless look will never go out of style and looks perfect in any home.
Please Note: I always strive to provide accurate and helpful information, but just a quick heads-up—I’m a blogger, not a doctor, lawyer, CPA, or any other kind of certified professional. I’m here to share my experiences and insights, but please make sure to use your own judgment and consult the right professionals when needed.
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