Design Detective: The Hallmarks of a Mediterranean-style Home

When it comes to residential real estate, it seems there are as many architectural styles as there are personalities to prefer them. While many styles are known for their simple lines and mass appeal, for a design that is decidedly elevated and timelessly elegant, look no further than the Mediterranean-style home. Here are a few of the characteristics that mark a home as Mediterranean.

Exterior Elements

The Mediterranean style is derived from homes located along the coast of the Mediterranean Sea in countries like Spain, Italy, Monaco, and Morocco, among others. This proximity to lush greenery and balmy breezes dictates the exterior elements used to construct the homes. Stucco is the typical choice for exterior finish. Light-colored stucco walls are contrasted with a richly hued red-tile roof, and an abundance of arches—over windows, doorways, and walkways—round out the major exterior elements of the Mediterranean design.

Delightful Details

Closer inspection of a Mediterranean home reveals a world of delightful details. Outside, balconies and wrought-iron metalwork complement the home’s design. Step inside, and terra-cotta-tiled floors, textured walls, warm wood features, winding staircases, and hand-painted tile accents liven up the home with an unmistakably Mediterranean air.

Indoor/Outdoor Living

A final hallmark of a Mediterranean home is its emphasis on the indoor/outdoor lifestyle. Capitalizing on the mild climate of the style’s origin, Mediterranean homes often feature an outdoor living space such as a courtyard, terrace, or garden to extend luxury living beyond the walls of the home. Traditional plantings such as topiaries, fruit, and olive trees are common in such spaces, furthering the homage to the design’s Mediterranean roots.

Though each Mediterranean-style home is unique, most can be identified by the elements discussed here. Are you ready to build your own Mediterranean dream home? Contact us to get started.