Inspired By Travel | How to Bring Home the Colors of the Globe
Wonders can be found everywhere. If you have ever traversed the canals of Venice or marveled at the Acropolis in Athens, you know just how breathtaking these faraway places can be. Travel inspires us to be daring and spontaneous, and to open our minds to new possibilities. Today we look at destinations that offer bold styles, colorful accents, and a touch of the unexpected to inspire your home’s decor this season.
DESTINATION: GREECE
Greek interior design is marked first and foremost by openness and minimalism. It draws upon natural color palettes that reflect Greece’s seaside environment: vibrant blues, sandy whites, lush greens, and hints of gold and red to represent sunlight and wildflowers. Furnishings are chosen for their archetypal simplicity, while also drawing attention to the unique lines and structures of each piece. Natural wood and marble are traditionally-used materials that have stood the test of time and are still used in modern Greek design.
DESTINATION: MEXICO
Modern Mexican design is a wonderful mix of tradition, experimentation, and maximalism. The colors of this culture still have a strong place in Mexican homes, but new ideas introduced by modern interior designers have resulted in the fusion of other international styles like mid-century modern or even Swedish design. Mexican homes start with a neutral canvas of open spaces with high ceilings, white walls, and minimal architecture. This forms a perfect contrast with handcrafted elements that speak to the rich history of Mexican art: bright primary colors, tapestry-like patterns, tile, and ceramics. Furnishings can widely vary from hand-crafted to manufactured and give you the chance to choose eclectic objects that make a bold statement. Finally, don’t forget to include elements of nature in your interiors, or choose spaces that showcase it such as the home above.
DESTINATION: ITALY
Known for its romance, warm tones and patterns, and use of traditional art, Italy has been at the forefront of elegant interiors for centuries. Modern Italian design has fused old with new, creating an eclectic mix of classical furnishings and patterns with more contemporary styles like mid-century modern. When modeling your home after Italian interiors, look for warm golds, deep reds, and natural off-whites, and don’t be afraid to include textural materials such as terrazzo. Look for classical furnishings with an expertly hand-crafted feel, in keeping with tradition, or mix it up with a few unexpected statement pieces that are colorful, reflective, and geometrically interesting.
DESTINATION: MOROCCO
The iconic patterns of a Moroccan rug, comfort pieces like ottomans and poufs, and a special focus on living and entertaining spaces are just some of the many reasons that Moroccan interior design still remains popular in homes across the world. When incorporating these elements into your home, look first and foremost for patterns and textures: Traditional Islamic patterns are usually what comes to mind, but look for any pattern that incorporates symmetrical geometric shapes and dramatic colors like azure and maroon. Stick to materials that look and feel hand-woven such as wicker, jute, and sisal. Keep this textural feel throughout the house through window treatments, flooring and rugs, and stand-out accent walls. Overall, keep comfort top of mind when furnishing your spaces, and treat them as gathering places for friends and family.