Think crisp white walls with sheer vibrant blue draperies blowing in the ocean wind and the first thing that comes to mind is the Mediterranean. The relaxed lifestyle of the lucky ones that enjoy the Mediterranean seas year round will bask in this style of design. This style will evoke a romantic and alive feeling while still managing to feel relaxed and comfortable. Think Southern France, Spain, and Italy all wrapped into one space.

Colors - Focus on bright and crisp yet vibrant yet earthy tones. Use the sunset and ocean as your inspiration here. Think deep yellow, orange, red, lavender, purple and mint to deep greens. Keeping the walls a crisp white for this space and accenting with more vibrant colors will make the space a bright and airy feeling.

Fabrics and Texture - Look for rough and earthy, but also airy and light material. The use of linens and cottons is a nice option for Mediterranean design. Texture can be found in every corner; from stucco white washed walls to roughly finished tiles on the floor or backsplash. Keeping dark wooden ceiling beams exposed will add a beautiful contrast often seen in Mediterranean homes.

Furniture - Showcase larger pieces which are inviting. Having a large pine plank dining room table which sits 8-10 people is perfect. Mediterranean culture enjoys the finer things in life; good food, good drinks, and good friends. The furniture choices for this style will be large wooden pieces, thus you will not need many small pieces. Having smaller pieces will only make your space feel crowded and cluttered, which is the exact opposite this style should portray. You will want your space to feel open and inviting.

Accessories - Select accents which are fun and colorful. Since the walls are typically white washed stucco, add splashes of color to compliment your exposed wood beam ceilings and large wood table. Ceramics and colorful pottery are great choices here. Dried or fresh flowers and herbs are another great way to infuse color to your space.

The most important feeling to invoke with Mediterranean inspired design is relaxation and comfort. So go ahead, invite your friends and family over and enjoy a nice Greek salad, wine and baklava!