Tuscan life incorporates a passion for living, a love of food and elegance in simplicity. This translates into a homely, warm and inviting décor which is ideal for any kitchen.

 

The appeal of this trend lies in its simplicity. Flashy or pretentious styles have no place in a Tuscan home so let’s get back to basics. Create a soothing ambience with the elements of wood, earth and stone. If your home does not have the Tuscan delights of bare stone walls, marble flooring or a brick oven, fear not you can create this sense of rustic bliss through other aspects of the décor.

 

Colour is a great place to start. Create a sense of red brick with paint colour. Crown offers a range of terracotta and peach shades which will give your kitchen a sunny glow. Check out Terracotta Glow, Oriental Ginger Maple Syrup and Light Terracotta. Alternatively, if you feel adventurous, add a touch of red to an oven chimney or a feature wall with Red Hot.

 

Bring the fields of Tuscany into your home with the addition of earthy greens. Almost Sage, Mellow Green or Bamboo Leaf will add a provincial quality to your kitchen. You could also add a golden hue with the shades of Golden Glow, Golden Cognac or Jersey Cream to create a sense of summer.

 

Fresco’s and murals are very popular in Tuscany. If your artistic skills do not stretch to painting a scene of Italian countryside, why don’t you add an arch of stencils on a wall or a border of green leaves? Check out my blog on Interior Paint Techniques for more insight.

 

If you can, use wooden furniture in your kitchen. This does not have to cost a fortune however, the more distressed the furniture is the better! Nothing should look shiny and new in this old-school style. Wooden cabinets are at truly home in a Tuscan kitchen. If you are dedicated to following this style, panels of chicken wire instead of cabinet doors will truly give an authentic feel. Click here to find out how to give your cabinets a whole new look. Lattice panels will also give the same effect.

 

Italians entertain in style and produce delicious meals for family and friends. It follows that you will always see decorative and colourful containers, dishes and baskets along worktops and in cabinets. Get that Tuscan farmhouse feel by installing a pot rack overhead to hold all pots and pans. Wrap the rack in grapevines, herbs or flowers for a beautiful finish.

 

Add texture with tablecloths of cotton, lace or chintz and dress your table with an ornate vase of sunflowers or lavender. Wrought iron accessories will also style your kitchen. Pick up candles holders, picture frames and even magazine holders to complete the look. A wine rack in the corner is also essential in an Italian home!

 

This style is reflective of centuries of Italian appreciation of beauty, love, food, and craftsmanship. If in doubt incorporate colour and comfort for a homely kitchen your entire family can enjoy.

 

Happy decorating!

 

 Neville