The once-mighty Greek empire may now just be seen as historical ruins, but the essence of the ancient civilization has endured. Credited as the one that shaped Western civilization's political and philosophical concepts, the affection and kindliness of the Greek culture lives on today. These values are what Mediterranean style is all about. The following are simple tips to get this distinctive look.
One of the biggest draws of modern Greece is its abundance of sunshine. Coupled with its deep blue beaches, it is a tourists' paradise. This relaxed, bright outdoor look is deceptively easy to achieve. One trademark is the minimalist approach to furniture and accent pieces. Rooms are - for lack of a better word - Spartan. But don't be fooled into thinking that bare is boring. On the contrary, Greek style is very much filled with excitement if you pull it off correctly.
Start by painting the walls white, either smooth or "gravelly" in texture, a look achieved by adding builder's sand to the paint. For accent colors, such as trim in a kitchen, select turquoise, bright yellow or classic Mediterranean blue. Greek homes have few, if any, architectural details, so avoid moldings, chair rails and the like. Keep fireplaces simple, little more than an wall alcove with a chimney or a fireplace with a tile border.
Flooring features hardwood or terracotta tiles, both intended to reflect the warmth of the Greek climate. A stone floor is also an option, but be sure to cover these hard floors with plenty of vibrant area rugs. Modern rugs in geometric patterns such as the classic "Greek key" are a good option, as are natural Flokati rugs, contemporary examples of the rug-making technique that Greek shepherds invented in the fifth century.
Low-level coffee tables, benches and chairs work well with soft floor cushions. Complement good quality, solid, rustic furniture with linen or wool trimmings. Handcrafted throws and pillows add a welcome touch and reinforce the accommodating look of the Greek style.
Grecian urns are a classic accessory. Add plenty of rustic inspired pottery in either painted glaze finishes or in natural clay. When looking for accent pieces, keep an eye out for painted plates, pitchers and vases with Greek motifs on them. Greek textiles, such as brightly colored drapes in geometric patterns, and more area rugs for hallways and entry points, also complement the atmosphere. Leave window treatments bare and simple, such as painted wooden shutters, white voiles or thin curtains of muslin for privacy.
Handmade ornaments are the order of the day. Use wrought iron candlesticks, chandeliers, and wall fixtures. Stick to these materials and you will end up with an authentic look. You can use strings of white "fairy lights" to add a magical sense of relaxation to any room. Drape it over plants, around windows, and hang it from the ceiling.
You need to keep in mind that Greek style can look out of place in cold, dark climates. When the sun is not shining brightly, the very essence of your house's theme can get lost. After all, Greece is blessed with lots of sunshine and mild weather. Without these, the look is simply incomplete. However, you can still achieve authenticity without your house looking misplaced. Use lots of texture, such as added area rugs, hangings on walls, pillows, and throws. Warm up the color scheme with more bias towards yellow and terracotta. Minimize the blues and you will give the illusion of the Mediterranean sun shining through your home.
One of the biggest draws of modern Greece is its abundance of sunshine. Coupled with its deep blue beaches, it is a tourists' paradise. This relaxed, bright outdoor look is deceptively easy to achieve. One trademark is the minimalist approach to furniture and accent pieces. Rooms are - for lack of a better word - Spartan. But don't be fooled into thinking that bare is boring. On the contrary, Greek style is very much filled with excitement if you pull it off correctly.
Start by painting the walls white, either smooth or "gravelly" in texture, a look achieved by adding builder's sand to the paint. For accent colors, such as trim in a kitchen, select turquoise, bright yellow or classic Mediterranean blue. Greek homes have few, if any, architectural details, so avoid moldings, chair rails and the like. Keep fireplaces simple, little more than an wall alcove with a chimney or a fireplace with a tile border.
Flooring features hardwood or terracotta tiles, both intended to reflect the warmth of the Greek climate. A stone floor is also an option, but be sure to cover these hard floors with plenty of vibrant area rugs. Modern rugs in geometric patterns such as the classic "Greek key" are a good option, as are natural Flokati rugs, contemporary examples of the rug-making technique that Greek shepherds invented in the fifth century.
Low-level coffee tables, benches and chairs work well with soft floor cushions. Complement good quality, solid, rustic furniture with linen or wool trimmings. Handcrafted throws and pillows add a welcome touch and reinforce the accommodating look of the Greek style.
Grecian urns are a classic accessory. Add plenty of rustic inspired pottery in either painted glaze finishes or in natural clay. When looking for accent pieces, keep an eye out for painted plates, pitchers and vases with Greek motifs on them. Greek textiles, such as brightly colored drapes in geometric patterns, and more area rugs for hallways and entry points, also complement the atmosphere. Leave window treatments bare and simple, such as painted wooden shutters, white voiles or thin curtains of muslin for privacy.
Handmade ornaments are the order of the day. Use wrought iron candlesticks, chandeliers, and wall fixtures. Stick to these materials and you will end up with an authentic look. You can use strings of white "fairy lights" to add a magical sense of relaxation to any room. Drape it over plants, around windows, and hang it from the ceiling.
You need to keep in mind that Greek style can look out of place in cold, dark climates. When the sun is not shining brightly, the very essence of your house's theme can get lost. After all, Greece is blessed with lots of sunshine and mild weather. Without these, the look is simply incomplete. However, you can still achieve authenticity without your house looking misplaced. Use lots of texture, such as added area rugs, hangings on walls, pillows, and throws. Warm up the color scheme with more bias towards yellow and terracotta. Minimize the blues and you will give the illusion of the Mediterranean sun shining through your home.
About the Author:
Seraphina enjoys decorating starting from the floor up when using Greek inspiration. She loves to start with flokati rugs and other natural area rugs.
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