Its rich cultural heritage and elegant style are a draw for so many. Because it combines a unique old world flavor and 'livability', more and more people are opting for this taste of old Italy.



Drawing from a rich palette of earth tones, Tuscan (which is an Italian country design) paints a vivid landscape of natural colors. This design uses distinct materials to help accomplish its magic, making your home unique as well as beautiful.

When deciding on a tuscan theme, you'll be using a combination of colors, textures, fabrics and materials such as stone and tile for the flooring and furnishings. This helps to create a natural atmosphere. Tables are often made of stone and Tile mosaics are another possibility for in the tuscan themed home.

---"What are four walls, anyway?... They are what they contain. The house protects the dreamer. Unthinkably good things can happen... " From Frances in Under A Tuscan Sun ---

Plaster makes for a great wall surface, again to add character and texture and a natural look and feel. This will give you a chance to use your creative talents and even have some fun.

The beauty of Wood -

Wood, with its natural beauty plays a large role in this grand design. Exquisite textures and intricate details make wood a perfect compliment to the Old World style and Tuscan takes full advantage of this natural resource. One example of this is the exposed framework. The large wooden beams create a sturdy but comfortably rustic look. The "unfinished" appearance only adds to its charm.

Another is in the construction of furniture. The goal here is to make it look aged and antique. By properly staining and 'aging' the wood using various techniques, you can create an antique feel while maintaining rugged endurance.

Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize -

The Tuscan Style has been handed down through the generations and is based on a rich cultural heritage. By using accessories, this heritage can be highlighted and celebrated. Accessories that are handmade are common and even preferred for this. Ceramics and Pottery are both big in tuscan decorating too! Silver, copper and iron are all suitable materials.

Themes that include fruits and vegetables, plants, olives and grapes, wine and pottery, scrolled ironwork, stone, marble and handcrafted tiles in an old world style and many other possibilities await the designer eye. Terra cotta is also popular when using the tuscan theme so a vase for those fresh cut flowers on the tiled mosaic table as the centerpiece of the room under a cast iron chandelier would make a fabulous entryway into your home.

Tuscan fabric is without equal in its simple beauty. Savannah and tobacco cloth, burlap and abaca, fibers from the banana and coconut tree are all used to create a natural, old fashion lived-in space. These materials are very versatile and nature insures you are not limited in choices. They can be used for just about anything from curtains and drapes as well as blinds, wall decorations, room and space dividers or privacy screens, or even conversation pieces on your coffee table.

Entryway rugs and foor coverings can all be created simply by using some of these beautiful and colorful fabrics and because of their weight, strength and durability they can be used for many applications.

Tuscan also uses colors such as yellow and red. These vibrant, lively colors can be used in decorations for tables, a chair cover, tie-backs to accentuate and complement curtains and drapes. Candlesticks wrapped with a red or yellow ribbon make quiet statements about your sense of style and grace. Any material or color that reminds us of the ocean, the earth, the beautiful azure sky or the living forest will bring a warm and inviting feel to your tuscan home.

This inspirational theme with its simplistic nature is a great home decorating idea.