MEDITERRANEAN KITCHEN DESIGN GUIDE

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The Mediterranean kitchen style is popular for good reason; with its vibrant colors, rustic charm, and inviting warmth, it’s no surprise the Mediterranean kitchen found its way into the heart of the home – the kitchen. The appeal of the Mediterranean décor style is rooted in its natural, relaxed, and welcoming vibe, reminiscent of the sunny and tranquil Mediterranean lifestyle. This décor style gained popularity worldwide for its unique blend of vibrant hues, rustic elements, and high-quality natural materials.

We’ll breakdown everything you need to know about this type of kitchen and the important things to consider before deciding if this is the type of kitchen for you.

Basics

Mediterranean kitchen décor takes inspiration from the coastal regions of Spain, Italy, Greece, and more. It is famous for its blend of functionality, earthy tones, textured walls, wrought iron accents, ornamental detailing, and warm, inviting color palettes. A notable feature of this style is the balance it strikes between the old world charm and modern practicalities.

When referring to ‘modern practices,’ we’re talking about incorporating contemporary conveniences and design principles within the Mediterranean framework. To clarify, a Mediterranean kitchen does indeed marry old world style with select modern enhancements. For instance, while it may boast rustic stone walls and classic terracotta flooring true to its roots, it could simultaneously feature state-of-the-art appliances and LED lighting. These modern touches are carefully integrated to not disrupt the timeless aesthetic but rather to bring functionality up to date. This creates a Mediterranean kitchen that is both deeply traditional in its ambiance yet equipped for the demands of today’s cooking and lifestyle needs.

Characteristic & Traits

It’s important to distinguish the Mediterranean kitchen style from the modern kitchen design, as defined in this article. The modern kitchen is defined by its minimalist lines, sleek surfaces, and a monochromatic color scheme—often featuring the latest in cabinetry innovation. It is a testament to the contemporary movement within interior design emphasizing efficiency and a polished look.

However, the Mediterranean kitchen has a more relaxed, artisanal character, featuring warm hues and a mix of textures over the black and white rules for functionality of modern design. Think, warm, sociable space that blends the rustic charm of coastal European regions with modern comforts. You’ll see lots of  earthy tones, textured surfaces, and ornate details (see below), offering a balance between traditional charm and contemporary convenience. This style captures the essence of a lived-in space that invites gathering, cooking, and the simple enjoyment of life’s daily pleasures.

While modern kitchens share some elements, like advanced appliances, sleek lighting/LED, etc.—it’s the overall feel and architectural details that set them distinctly apart.

Color Palette

Mediterranean kitchens typically feature warm, earthy tones like terracotta, beige, rust, yellow ochre, and sepia. Accents of vibrant blues, greens, and whites are common, mirroring the sea and sky, contrasted with the warm tones of the land.

Materials

Expect to see natural, unpolished materials like stone, ceramics, and wood. Granite and marble countertops are a staple, and terracotta or mosaic tiles often grace floors and backsplashes.

Ornate Details

Mediterranean style focuses heavily on detailed handiwork, from carved cabinets to wrought iron elements, adding a personal touch.

Construction

When it comes to creating an authentic Mediterranean kitchen, the selection of cabinetry, countertops, and flooring is crucial as it lays the foundation for the style’s overall aesthetic and practicality.

Cabinetry

Cabinetry in a Mediterranean kitchen should exude a sense of history and craftsmanship. Opt for rich, warm wood tones with decorative moldings and perhaps a distressed or glazed finish to add character. Custom designs with ornate scrollwork or hand-painted motifs are highly valued for their artistry. Functionally, soft-close hinges and drawer slides can integrate modern convenience without detracting from the traditional look.

Countertops

A Mediterranean kitchen’s countertops should combine durability with natural beauty. Materials such as marble, granite, or a warm-toned quartzite can offer a luxurious feel while being practical for the kitchen environment. For a more rustic look, butcher block or tiled countertops with hand-painted designs can evoke a homier, provincial feel quintessential to the Mediterranean ethos.

Flooring

As for flooring, options like natural stone or terracotta tiles work beautifully to complement the warm color palette while also being hard-wearing and easy to maintain. For a slightly softer feel underfoot, consider using hardwood with a distressed finish or reclaimed wood that can tell a story with its imperfections.

Incorporating these elements with consideration to both aesthetics and function ensures a kitchen that’s not only visually cohesive with the sunny, warm spirit of the Mediterranean but also equipped to stand the test of time in both style and form.

Personal Touches

Mix and Match

Combine old-world charm with modern conveniences. Use terracotta or mosaic tiles for a rustic appeal and pair it with modern appliances for a functional, yet aesthetic balance.

Cabinets

Continuing with the theme of mixing and matching in a Mediterranean kitchen, consider the cabinetry. Opt for open shelving or glass-front cabinets to showcase beautiful ceramics or glassware that complement the color scheme. Custom cabinetry with hand-painted designs can serve as functional art pieces within the kitchen. Incorporate wrought iron hardware or antique brass fixtures to maintain the old-world vibe while ensuring durability and style.

Furniture

Selecting a sturdy wooden table can anchor the space and provide a central spot for gathering and dining. Couple this with mismatched chairs or benches that bring in various Mediterranean textures and a touch of informality that invites comfortable interaction and leisurely meals.

Fixtures

Remember that lighting is key in any kitchen, and in a Mediterranean kitchen, it’s an opportunity to enhance the ambiance. Choose fixtures that cast a warm glow, like wrought iron chandeliers or wall sconces, which create inviting shadows and highlights that play off the textured walls and surfaces.

Environment

Don’t skimp on the greenery. Incorporate plant life such as herbs in terracotta pots or hanging baskets to bring a touch of the Mediterranean landscape indoors while also adding freshness to your culinary space.

Embrace Natural Light

Allow plenty of natural light to stream in through large, decorative windows enhancing the warm tones of the kitchen’s color palette. If natural light is limited, consider installing recessed or track lighting to create a bright and airy atmosphere.

Bring in the Sea

Embrace the Mediterranean sea’s calming presence by incorporating ocean-inspired elements. Consider displaying seashells, beach pebbles, or driftwood as part of your décor. Additionally, you can include blue accents through textiles such as tablecloths, dish towels, and rugs.

Putting it All Together

Personalized details such as a wrought iron pot rack or a vintage wooden table can elevate the Mediterranean feel. Decorative hand-painted pottery, intricately patterned textile runners, and wall tapestries that add a layer of warmth and cultural depth. Framed family recipes or black-and-white photographs adorning the walls can evoke a sense of heritage and familial connection. Additionally, incorporating antique wooden tools or copper cookware displayed as functional décor pieces can further enhance the kitchen’s lived-in and welcoming feel. Vintage spice racks filled with an array of herbs and spices not only add to the culinary functionality but also serve as a colorful nod to the array of flavors found within Mediterranean cuisine.

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