Don't be afraid of the rich color combinations of the Mediterranean.
Mediterranean interior design colors draw from the colors of nature in Greece, Italy, Morocco and Spain. These include the bright blues of the sky, whites of the clouds, turquoise and deep blues of the sea, creams and off-whites of the shorelines, yellows, reds and oranges of the sun and browns and terra cottas of the earth. They contrast with exterior whites to keep homes cool in the blazing heat of the Mediterranean climate. Blue is essential in Mediterranean interiors, and mixing warm and cool colors creates a rustic, relaxed atmosphere. Does this Spark an idea?
Blue
Blue is fundamental to the Mediterranean look and contrasts well with earthy terra cotta, crisp white, or pink and dusky brown. Accented with deep green and blue glazed wall tiles, clay pottery and carved wood, a bright blue sets the tone. Sky blue, red and deep mustard yellow recall sky, earth and nature in a warm, rich balance. Turquoise and light blue are perfect foils for earthy browns and ochers. Don't be afraid to try combinations of Mediterranean colors. Use a piece of scrap wood to paint on and experiment with colors to plan your final designs.
Red
Red, pink and orange on walls with blue trim or doors creates a warm and inviting space that feels safe and vibrant at the same time. One red wall in a room creates a dramatic backdrop for an antique hutch, a special credenza or a turquoise blue couch. Red sponged on a brown or orange wall warms the space and introduces a rich, mellow mood. Rustic wood accessories such as lamps, shelves and plant stands complete an organic-feeling decor.
Yellow
Paint bright yellow borders on a deep blue wall or cabinet to make the space pop with rich ethnic character. Paint one wall yellow in a blue or brown room to lighten and brighten and add contrast. Yellow and blue create a happy feeling, while yellow and earth colors create a mellow, warm feeling. Yellow and its shades of dark yellow, mustard yellow and burnt umber introduce a contrasting rich brightness against the blues and browns in the Mediterranean interior palette.
Brown
Use brown in large interior spaces on walls and floors with large areas of turquoise, white and terra cotta to create a balance of earth and sky coloring. This color scheme makes a good setting for brightly colored furniture in yellows and reds. Wrought-iron furniture and mosaic and marble tabletops and countertops look good in this color setting.
Tags: combinations Mediterranean, Mediterranean interior, mustard yellow, terra cotta, yellows reds