Interiors

Tips & Tricks: How to Do the Italian Interiors Look without Going Overboard

by

5 years ago

If you’ve ever taken one look at Italian architecture, then it’s easy to see that the country is steeped in history and tradition, while also being juxtaposed with modernity. (Just ask the world’s oldest shopping mall in Milan.) There’s certainly plenty of jaw-dropping inspiration to draw from this part of the world… and that’s exactly what we’re doing today. That said, what may be your “traditional” idea of ornate Italian interiors isn’t our goal. We’re taking a more modern approach to Italian-inspired interiors, and pulling only the best Italian touches into our own spaces. Here’s how to get the Mediterranean modern look, no matter your zip code…

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Live in Linen

Italians have hundreds of years under their belts of creating some of the finest textiles in the world—including linen! There’s a reason you probably think of warm Mediterranean weather when you feel a really good linen, and in many cases it’s because that is exactly where it came from. To add that laidback Italian vibe to your space, make sure to add plenty of touches of linen, and layer, layer, layer. Not only does this textile present well, but it’s also practical and breathable, making it warm in winter and cool in summer.

  1. Daybed | 2. Cube Ottoman | 3. Headboard | 4. Duvet Cover Set | 5. Throw | 6. Bench | 7. Canopy Chair | 8. Slipcover Sofa

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Something Rustic

Many Italians make their living by carrying on businesses that have been in their families for generations, and handmade touches made by these artisans go hand-in-hand with Italian interiors. To replicate this vibe in your own space, make sure to add plenty of handmade details throughout—bonus points if they are vintage, OR even if they just look like they have lived a long life before they came to your home.

  1. Green Metal Vase | 2. Vintage Elm Stool | 3. Baskets | 4. Decorative Ladder | 5. Mojave Vessels | 6. Terracotta Planter | 7. Ivory Table Lamp | 8. Stone Paperweight | 9. Stoneware Lamp | 10. Serving Bowl | 11. Wood Side Table

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Bring in Nature

The natural landscape of Italy is so breathtaking in and of itself, that it would be a crime to separate the indoors from the outdoors too drastically. If you want to truly feel like you’re living al fresco like the Italians do, then invest in adding nature to your space, whether in the form of actual greenery or artwork (or both!).

  1. Sea Glass Beads | 2. La Fontelina Beach Club Umbrellas, Capri | 3. Two Chairs, La Fontelina Capri | 4. Palo Santo Bundle | 5. Positano Coast Vertical | 6. Faux Olive Tree | 7. Champagne in Capri | 8. Oil Bath | 9. Marina Grande | 10. Positano by Boat | 11. Wooden Orbs | 12. Sicily

A Touch of Metal

While our favorite part of Italian interiors is the laidback, lived-in feel, there is certainly a sub-section of Italian style that is glam and regal. (Fit for a king, of course!) However, that doesn’t mean you have to go all out and install a gilded chandelier or fireplace; just a few pops of modern brass or chrome will do just fine.

  1. Vine Chandelier | 2. Chrome Chandelier | 3. Hide Accent Chair | 4. Bath Tray | 5. Brass Sconce | 6. Side Table | 7. Marble Coffee Table | 8. Ivory Linen Chair | 9. Table Lamp | 10. Counter Stool

Embrace History

Italy itself is famed for its rich history, so it only makes sense that you cannot (and should not!) separate your Italian-inspired interiors from its historic touches. Whether that means restoring original architectural details like that ornate crown molding or your over-the-top stone fireplace, or simply adding an odd object that looks like it could be centuries old, don’t underestimate the power of mixing old with new.

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Get Modern

Like we mentioned above, today’s Italian interiors are all about contrast, and the juxtaposition between new and old. To make your historic-inspired details and rustic accessories look fresh, make sure to mix with clean lines and crisp color palettes to bring them back to life.

  1. Vessel | 2. Coffee Table | 3. Vintage Bookshelf | 4. Entryway Cabinet | 5. Accent Chair | 6. Glass Vase | 7. Albini Ottoman | 8. Leather Pillow | 9. Dining Chair

via Gillian Segal Design

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How would you approach the Italian-inspired interiors look?

No matter your M/O, it can’t hurt to start with an Italian print or two! Shop all La Dolce Vita printshere.

Xx Team GM

Photos: Gray Malin, Gillian Segal Design