Italy has always been the world leader in fashion, so of course Italian interior design is no different!
From the relaxed aesthetics of Italian rooms, to the skilled artisans who create Italian decor – interiors in Italy are always a major source of inspiration.
Whether it’s the modern look, or cozy rustic finishes you like, it’s easier than you think to replicate the style in your home.
I think the perfect blend of Italian design styles mixes old and new, and today I’m sharing 7 ways to use Italian interior design trends.
These are some of my favorite ideas I’ve spotted in Italy over the years, and they’ve always made me feel right at home!
Try a few of these ideas out to echo an Italian design style, no matter where you live!
Plus, I added the pieces I would actually buy under each idea, so you can shop this Italian interior design style in one place!
1. A Neutral Backdrop
Neutral colors are a great way to create an inviting Italian inspired space.
They allow the eye to take in all of the natural light and give off a calming vibe. Many Italian homes start with a white, gray, or beige base for their walls and larger pieces of furniture.
The best part about neutral tones is that they go well with any color palette, so it’s easy for you to change things up as often as you like!
For example, this Tuscan kitchen keeps the walls a soft cream. Then the wood beams and terracotta floor add all the warmth. That is why neutral walls top my list for this look.
To get the look, start with a slipcovered sofa in linen. Next, add a stone side table and a few textured pillows. As a result, the room feels calm but never cold.
Here are my favorite pieces for this Italian look.
2. Fresco Inspired Murals
Frescos have been around since ancient times, but they’re still popular in Italian interior design today!
Traditionally, frescos are a hand painted mural applied to wet plaster – and they are often found in old Italian villas and churches.
This style of painting usually depicts of scenes of figures and nature – perfect for a timeless backdrop in your home.
While not everyone can have a muralist pop by for a custom commission, you can achieve a similar feel with a framed fresco inspired artwork, or scenic wallpaper!
Also, a gallery wall of old frames gives a similar feel to a fresco. Mix landscapes, sketches and family photos for a collected look.
In fact, one gold framed Tuscan landscape is often enough. Hang it over a console, and the whole room instantly feels older. Above all, art is one of the easiest Italian style updates to try.
Shop these picks to bring fresco style Italian decor home.
3. Terra Cotta Planters
Italians are known for their green thumbs! Even if you’re not a gardening enthusiast, Terra cotta planters are perfect for adding a touch of green to any room.
Use the traditional Italian material and grow basil for in your windowsill or get a large planter as a standalone decor in your entryway.
Terra cotta will instantly make your room feel warmer and happier – and caring for plants is known to give you a positive energy boost!
For a bigger statement, try a pair of terracotta urns by the front door. Then plant them with olive trees or rosemary.
Also, a faux olive tree in a clay pot works beautifully indoors. That way, you get the look even without a sunny window!
These terra cotta picks are an easy Italian style win.
4. Italian Ceramics Plates
Another staple of Italian decorating is beautiful ceramic dishes and plates. Handmade items are especially popular to be passed down through generations, and many Italians proudly display them at home.
Often these plates depict fruit or florals, in bold colors or softer tones to suit your kitchen or dining room.
Displaying them on the walls or on open kitchen shelves gives a touch of Italy to your space. Just don’t be surprised when you start craving a big bowl of pasta!
For example, a cluster of hand-painted plates looks so pretty over a doorway. First, lay them out on the floor. Then hang them with simple plate hangers.
Plus, a big lemon platter is both useful and decorative. So leave it out on the counter between meals! After all, Italian decor should feel lived in.
Shop these Italian ceramics for your own walls and shelves.
5. Mixed Raw Materials, Like Wood, Stone and Metal
Italian interior design often incorporates a rich blend of natural textures, like wood, stone and metal. Mixing these materials can create a cozy “lived” in look.
Try this look on your bookshelf, mantle, or entryway table by displaying a few decorative items of different materials.
Small statues, wooden candlesticks, a metal serving items are a great way to blend these textures – and the more unfinished looking the better for channeling rustic Italian design.
Here, the stone fireplace and rough wood beams do all the work. In other words, natural materials need very little styling.
To copy it, pair a carved wood dough bowl with a marble pedestal bowl. Then add aged brass candlesticks and a travertine vase.
Altogether, the mix feels relaxed and timeless. In fact, this is one of my favorite Italian decor ideas.
Mix these natural materials for a rustic Italian feel.
6. Statement Italian Dining Tables
For Italians, the heart of the home is where you eat and spend time with your loved ones.
That is why in Italian interior design, you’ll often find a beautiful family sized table with plenty of room to swap stories and spaghetti.
While wooden finishes are my favorite, I’ve also seen some beautiful Italian properties with lovely modern marble topped tables!
I’m sharing a few made in Italy designs below that are perfect for bringing your family together at the table.
For instance, a long trestle table seats the whole family. Then mismatched ladder back chairs make it feel collected over time.
On the other hand, a round pedestal table suits a smaller room. Either way, choose warm wood and keep it simple!
Here are a few dining pieces with Italian charm.
7. Mediterranean Tiles
My final favorite Italian interior design trend is beautiful mediterranean style tiles. These bright colors and geometric designs are often found in Italian kitchens, bathrooms, and flooring throughout homes.
Even if you don’t have a ton of space, a pretty tile can make a big impact. Try adding a faux tile look to shelves like this simple peel and stick blue and white backsplash.
You can also try them on stair treads, or a small nook to create a one of a kind Italian vibe.
Also, tile coasters are a tiny way to try the look. Similarly, a blue and white plate rack adds pattern without any grout!
In short, even one patterned surface brings that sunny Mediterranean feel home. So pick the Italian style ideas you love most, and start small!
Shop these Mediterranean tile looks for your own Italian style.
Shop These Italian Interior Design Ideas
In short, here are all my favorite Italian pieces in one place. Just tap any item to shop it!
Thanks for reading this roundup of my favorite interior design ideas to borrow from chic Italian homes!
I hope these ideas inspire you to get that inviting Italian vibe in your house, and to make every room a place that you love!
Want to see more beautiful Italian things? Check out my most popular posts all about Italy:
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