The warm, rustic look and feel that is reminiscent of the Tuscan region of Italy can be achieved by utilizing an eclectic and diverse of mix materials and textures. Since Tuscan decor is inspired by the natural surroundings of the region, keep this in mind as you select furniture, fabrics, accessories and even wall textures.
Following are some ideas and suggestions for utilizing a variety of organic materials to create a Tuscan-inspired home decor scheme of your own:
Iron is used liberally in Tuscan decor. Wrought iron, copper and other metals are used in unique wall decor, candle holders, pot racks, canisters, baskets, urns, vases and furniture. Metal nail heads on furniture, both upholstered and wood, add Old World detail and richness.
Wood, being one of nature's most abundant resources, is a natural choice for Tuscan decorating. Tuscan wood furniture can be rough hewn and heavily distressed or more traditional and polished and can be used together throughout your home.
Think of a rustic farmhouse table for the kitchen or dining room. Or chairs and sofas with exposed wood arms and legs. Armoires, sideboards, hutches, bookcases and media centers made of warm and rich dark woods are both functional and beautiful. Iron is a perfect complement and accent to wood furniture.
Stone - in all of nature's colors - is a beautiful and durable material to use in tiles for counter tops, flooring and accessories. Tumbled, matte or polished travertine, marble and granite are popular choices.
A good, local faux painter can even create areas that appear to be made of stone. This technique works well in entryways, leading up a staircase, in wine cellars and kitchens.
Ceramic accessories add functionality, color and interest in any room or garden. Vases, pitchers, urns, tubs, planters, bowls, platters and dinnerware are common uses of ceramics in Tuscan decorating.
Finishes are both smooth and polished or rough and rustic. The glazes and paints used to finish Tuscan ceramics embrace the entire spectrum of the Tuscan color palette and are often irregular - which only adds to the uniqueness and beauty of an individual piece.
Fabric Rich upholstery will soften the liberal use of hard surfaces and materials found in Tuscan decorating. Furniture upholstery, throw pillows and blankets, draperies, table cloths and runners, even tapestries in the rich or muted colors found in the Tuscan color palette create warmth and comfort.
Leather is also a versatile textile to use in Tuscan furniture and wall decor and works extremely well with wood, metal and other fabrics.
Foliage - Don't forget to incorporate foliage in your Tuscan decor. Foliage can be live or silk plants, trees and flowers. Create groupings of foliage, ceramic and metal accessories for a natural, warm and inviting look.
There are no hard and fast rules or boundaries in Tuscan decorating. It can be inspired by a country farmhouse or a grand villa; both within the same space. Most important in Tuscan home decorating - don't be intimidated by it. Tuscan decorating is about the colors, textures and accessories in your home being harmonious and not "matchy-matchy."
Whether you're decorating an entire home in Tuscan style or are just looking for a few ideas or decor accessories to enhance what you already have, you can't go wrong with the Tuscan style. Tuscan home decor is casually elegant and perfect for everyday life in any home.
Kathy Deneen is an avid and experienced decorator specializing in Tuscan, Mediterranean and Old World styles. Her on-line store, TuscanSunInteriors.com, offers an expansive selection of quality decor accessories, low every day pricing, no sales tax, low flat rate shipping and outstanding, personalized customer service. Please visit Tuscan Sun Interiors at http://tuscansuninteriors.com today.
Article Source: [http://EzineArticles.com/?Tuscan-Home-Decorating---The-Materials-and-Textures&id=3856120] Tuscan Home Decorating - The Materials and Textures
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