Italian Style Kitchen Decorating For Cooking Lovers
Italy is world-renowned for its rich cultural heritage, mouthwatering cuisine, and passion for celebrating life. What better way to infuse your kitchen with that iconic Italian spirit than by embracing Italian-inspired decor?
Fusing modern conveniences with old-world charm, an Italian style kitchen beautifully blends function and form. From vibrant colors and patterns to ornate accents and vintage furnishings, the design possibilities are endless. Read on as we explore easy ways to transform your cooking space into a warm, welcoming Italian kitchen.
Incorporating Authentic Materials
Natural materials are a hallmark of Italian design. Stone, brick, wood, and wrought iron lend an organic, earthy feel that connects the kitchen to the beauty of the Tuscan countryside.
Stone and Brick
Stone and brick are classic choices for floors, backsplashes, and countertops. Limestone, travertine, marble, and granite indigenous to Italy infuse natural texture. Whether you opt for a rough-hewn surface or polished stone, these materials add rustic elegance.
Travertine is a popular creamy beige limestone quarried in Tivoli, near Rome. Its subtly rustic look pairs perfectly with wood cabinetry. For a higher-contrast statement, try Carrara marble's bright white veining against dramatic charcoal or black stone.
Exposed brick backsplashes or accent walls offer an urban edge, as if your kitchen were carved into an old Italian villa. Pair with wood cabinetry for delightful contrast. Seek out reclaimed brick for authentic imperfections and muted red tones.
Warm Wood Elements
Wood brings warmth and comfort to Italian kitchens. Unfinished oak, elm, chestnut, and pine treatments on cabinetry, open shelving, butcher block, and furniture give the impression of an Italian farmhouse.
Opt for naturally distressed woods with visible knots and grooves. Mix textures and stains for eclectic charm. Add handcrafted ceramic knobs for an artisanal touch. If your budget allows, opt for solid wood construction versus veneers for longevity.
Unfinished butcher block islands are an Italian farmhouse staple. Let natural wood grain shine, or coat with food-safe oil for protection. Add overhanging corbels for Old World flair.
Wrought Iron Accents
Wrought iron offers an industrial flair, perfect for pot racks, lighting, chair backs, and decorative hooks. Opt for dark metal finishes that contrast beautifully with stone or brick. Iron lattice trims on bar stools or pendant lights also conjure romantic Italian patios.
Hand-forged ironwork calls to mind ornate gates and spiraling stair rails of Italian villas. Look for unique pieces like wall sconces or corner shelves to add custom character.
Incorporating Colorful Italian Tile
From backsplashes to floors, Italian tile is an art form. Intricate patterns and vivid Mediterranean hues transport the kitchen to the sun-soaked Italian coast.
Vibrant Hues
Deep azure, sun-washed yellow, vibrant green and terra cotta are hallmarks of Italian majolica tile. These saturated colors evoke Mediterranean landscapes. For a harmonious look, limit yourself to two complementary hues.
Highlight one area like your backsplash or stovetop wall with bold color. Blue and yellow recall classic Pompeian schemes, while emerald green nods to Italy's verdant countryside.
Intricate Patterns
From geometric mosaics to artistic motifs, Italian patterns delight the eye. Opt for hand-painted tiles that mimic woodgrain, floral blooms or Mediterranean seascapes.
Alternating patterned and solid tiles creates movement and contrast. Accent with inlaid stone and marble for added dimension. Remember--simplicity and negative space allow complex designs room to dazzle.
Creative Mixing
Don't be afraid to get creative with Italian tile shapes. Hexagons, circles, subway tiles, arabesque and colorblocking offer endless combinations. Mix different textures like handmade terracotta with polished marble.
Lay tile on the diagonal, or pare back to a simple brick-laid pattern. Floating wood shelves over a vivid tile backsplash offsets the colors beautifully. Remember--let one element take the lead to maintain harmony.
Displaying Italian Decor
Italian flair comes from infusing character and charm through carefully curated decor. Display antique plates, vibrant textiles, and foodie art for dolce vita ambiance.
Vintage Signage and Tins
Vintage Italian signage, advertisements and food tins add a pop of nostalgia. Look for porcelain enamel signs from old Italian brands, or even your family name. Prop up distressed olive oil cans and faded labels for rustic patina.
Search flea markets and antique shops for finds, or create your own faux versions. Hangsigns with decorative hooks and display collections on open shelves or windowsills. Keepgroupings clutter-free for maximum impact.
Italian Textiles
Incorporate iconic Italian textile patterns to add flair. Try gingham, florals, jacquard and paisley prints on curtains, tablecloths and chair cushions. Opt for vibrant tomato reds, sage greens and sapphire blues over mellow Tuscan hues.
Introduce patterns gradually--too many compete. Iron decorative tapestries for hanging on blank walls or draping over counters. Select durable, washable fabrics that handle cooking splatters with ease.
Food-Inspired Art
Nods to Italian culinary delights personalize the space. Consider black and white sketches or oil paintings of pasta, cheese, wine and olive groves. Watercolors of lemons, tomatoes and herbs also enliven walls.
For a modern twist, frame vibrant food photography prints. Group collections over a sideboard or floating shelf. Seek both traditional and contemporary works to curate an eclectic gallery wall.
Outfitting with Authentic Accessories
Finish your Italian kitchen with accessories and serveware that nod to Italy's rich culinary tradition. Opt for pieces that blend utility with old-world craftsmanship.
Ceramic Serveware
Handthrown, hand-painted ceramics bring artistry to everyday dining. Opt for rich terracotta platters and serving bowls with ornate patterns. Display brightly colored majolica pitchers and planters brimming with fresh herbs.
Introduce ceramic elements slowly for balance. groupings on open shelves highlight each piece. Hang ornate ceramic plates or wooden utensil racks for quick grab-and-go convenience.
Copper Cookware
Gleaming copper pots and pans give the kitchen old-world panache. Hammered copper lends handcrafted appeal on range hoods, farmhouse sinks and decorative molds.
Layer copper and ceramic cookware for an artful display. Reserve copper for show by hanging shiny pots and utensils from wrought iron racks. The classic contrast never fails to dazzle.
Woven willow baskets and glass jars add rustic storage for fresh produce and pantry staples. Wire bakers racks lined with glass jars store pasta, spices and condiments within reach.
Leave baskets open for breezy charm. Designate them for fruits and vegetables to keep counters clutter-free. Attach chalkboard labels to jars for an Italian market vibe.
As you can see, creating an Italian-inspired kitchen is an artful mix of color, texture, and craftsmanship. By thoughtfully incorporating elements true to Italian style, your cooking space will transport you straight to a trattoria in Tuscany. Mangia!