Ciao, wonderful readers! I’m so excited to bring you my second post.

Today, I want to take you on a journey to one of my favourite destinations: Tuscany, Italy. So, Italy in general is one of my favourite countries I have had the pleasure of visiting (3 times now… I just can’t get enough) but within this beautiful country, the Tuscan region is top of the list too.

Tuscany, a region in central Italy, has a rich history and cultural heritage that has shaped its design and architectural landscape. Renowned as the birthplace of the Italian Renaissance, Tuscany boasts a legacy of artistic brilliance and intellectual innovation. From the Medici family, the influential patrons of the arts (look this family had some issues but they were happy to spend A LOT of money on art and culture, so I’ll give them that), to legendary figures like Leonardo da Vinci and Michelangelo (and soooo many more), Tuscany has been a breeding ground for creativity and artistic expression.

The Tuscan people embody a deep appreciation for art, beauty, and craftsmanship. They take pride in their cultural traditions and have a strong connection to their land and heritage. Like many Mediterranean cultures, Tuscans are known for their warm and welcoming nature, valuing close-knit communities and celebrating the joys of life with family and friends.

Tuscan architecture is characterised by a harmonious blend of influences from different eras. The region’s medieval past is reflected in the fortified hilltop towns and picturesque villages that dot the countryside. The Renaissance period brought about a renewed interest in classical architecture, resulting in the construction of magnificent palaces, grand cathedrals, and elegant villas. The architectural style of Tuscany combines elements of Gothic, Romanesque, and Renaissance design, creating a unique aesthetic that exudes both grandeur and simplicity.

The iconic Santa Maria del Fiore Cathedral (commonly known as the Duomo) in Florence stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of Tuscany. Its striking dome, designed by Filippo Brunelleschi, is an architectural marvel that has become an emblem of Florence.

Fun fact: in 1296 when architect Arnolfo di Cambio originally designed the cathedral, the engineering knowledge of the time could not figure out how to create a dome so big that it wouldn’t collapse. They knew it was possible because the Pantheon (built over a thousand years before) had a huge dome, but the knowledge had essentially been lost. That didn’t stop them from building the cathedral. For over a hundred years the cathedral stood without a dome, open to the elements, until Brunelleschi came with an answer! I love this little fact because the mentally was essentially… eh, we don’t know now but we will, we definitely will, so build it anyway.

In addition to its architectural heritage, Tuscany is also known for its exquisite craftsmanship. Skilled artisans continue to create beautiful works of art, including intricate pottery, handmade textiles, and exquisite leather goods. The craftsmanship of Tuscany is a testament to the region’s commitment to preserving its cultural traditions and passing them down through generations. If you pop over the main bridge in Florence to the less touristy side, you are likely to walk past little workshops with craftsman and artists working on their current designs.

Okay, so maybe that’s a little too much information for a decor blog, but man I love this region! Exploring Tuscany (outside of Florence) was always a dream for me. This year I got to live out that dream with my husband. We took a road trip through the Tuscan countryside. After renting a car we embarked on a journey through the picturesque landscapes, discovering hidden gems and charming hilltop towns. From Siena to the rolling green hills, Tuscany’s natural beauty was captivating. We even had the pleasure of resting in the Bagni San Filippo outdoor sulfur hot springs. Bloody magical!

Overall, Tuscany’s history, people, and architectural elements have contributed to a design aesthetic that is both timeless and captivating. By incorporating elements of Tuscan design into your home, you can create a space that embraces the region’s rich cultural heritage and captures the essence of its breathtaking landscapes.

Alright, let’s jump in! 

Colours

Tuscany is renowned for its warm colour palette, reflecting the region’s natural landscapes. To bring a touch of Tuscany into your home, opt for earthy tones inspired by the countryside. Rich terracotta, warm ochre, and golden yellows can be used as accent colours on walls or incorporated through furniture and accessories. For a timeless and elegant look, combine these warm hues with neutral shades such as creamy whites, soft beiges, and warm greys.

Textures

Tuscan design celebrates the rustic beauty of natural textures. Incorporate elements such as exposed wooden beams, rough stone walls, and terracotta flooring to create a warm and welcoming ambiance. Use natural materials like distressed wood, wrought iron, and rough-hewn stone in your furniture and decor choices to evoke the charm of Tuscan architecture.

Light

One cannot talk about Tuscany without mentioning the region’s abundant sunshine. Embrace natural light by keeping windows unobstructed and using sheer curtains or blinds that allow the sun’s warmth to permeate your space. Similar to what I mentioned in the Greek Island post, you can enhance the luminosity by strategically placing mirrors to reflect light and create an illusion of spaciousness. To recreate the cosy atmosphere of Tuscan evenings, incorporate warm lighting through lamps with soft, golden hues or candles that infuse your home with a soft, flickering glow.

Patterns

Tuscan design embraces both timeless elegance and rustic charm in its patterns. Opt for classic motifs like damasks, fleur-de-lis, or Tuscan stripes in your textiles, upholstery, and wallpapers. To capture the rustic essence of the countryside, consider incorporating botanical prints or vineyard-inspired patterns, reminiscent of the grapevines that blanket the hills. Use these patterns sparingly to create focal points and add visual interest to your decor.

Furniture

Exuding an essence of timeless allure, furniture inspired by the Tuscan aesthetic embodies simplicity, functionality, and a captivating, understated elegance. Opt for exquisite pieces crafted from natural materials like aged wood, wrought iron, or artisan-carved stone. Infuse your interiors with a touch of Tuscan charm by selecting rustic wooden dining tables that exude warmth, bed frames adorned with wrought iron detailing, or stone coffee tables that evoke a sense of grounded beauty. Seek out furniture with natural finishes that showcase the innate splendour of these materials, creating a harmonious blend of sophistication and nature-inspired simplicity.

Artworks

With a rich artistic heritage, Tuscany has long served as a muse for countless creatives, and its profound influence resonates to this day. Infuse your home with the captivating beauty and boundless creativity of this region by adorning your walls with Tuscan artworks. Select paintings that capture the enchanting landscapes, the rolling green hills, or the idyllic villages of Tuscany, bringing a sense of serenity and natural to your living spaces. Alternatively, embrace a touch of classical elegance by incorporating sculptures that pay homage to the revered masters of the Renaissance, adding an element of refined grace to your home ambiance.

Plants

Bring the lush beauty of Tuscany’s landscapes indoors by incorporating plants into your home decor. Olive trees, potted herbs like rosemary and lavender, and vibrant flowers like sunflowers or hydrangeas can infuse your space with the colours and scents of Tuscany. Display them in terracotta pots or rustic containers to enhance the organic and natural feel.

I hope this journey through the design elements of Tuscany has inspired you to infuse Italian charm into your home. From the architectural wonders of Florence to the rustic beauty of the countryside, Tuscany offers a treasure trove of design inspiration. Whether you choose to incorporate warm earthy colours, rustic textures, timeless patterns, or classic furniture, let Tuscany’s allure fill your home with beauty and create a space that embraces the rich heritage of this enchanting region. Grazie for joining me on this adventure, and may your home be forever touched by the magic of Tuscany.

With love,

E