 | Marvin Niedens is owner of Texturite, LLC. He has been involved in every facet of the construction industry since his childhood when his father was a general contractor in the ‘50s and ‘60s. He enjoys working with his hands to create something people enjoy using, as well as being appealing to the eye. He also likes to work on projects often times neglected by others. Such was the case with ceilings and walls of residential and commercial structures. This is how his company, Texturite, came into existence. You may contact Marvin at 316-393-0836, or by e-mail at marv1096@msn.com. |
Home Improvement
2005-03-01 10:09:00
Tuscany decor for modern homes?
: What is meant by Tuscany Décor? Is it for modern homes?
ANSWER: In Italian, "Benvenuto ala Villa" translates to "Welcome to my home". It expresses what makes a Tuscan home authentically Tuscan…a celebration of the joy and warmth found in welcoming guests to your home. Tuscan style homes and furnishings are one of the most sought after interior design elements today. Infused with hearty materials such as hardwoods, terra cotta, stone, and brick, Tuscany décor is a throwback in style that matches the look that people seek in their home decorating today…rustic, simple, and solid comfort. Tuscany brings to mind rolling green hillsides, vineyards and farmhouses. That image alone may be responsible for the current decorating craze. It's a style that might also be called the original European "Shabby Chic"; crumbling stone walls, moss-covered rock patios, and any element that is stained, old, and well-used. Tuscan decorating is rustic, warm, and inviting, with a few simple, sturdy details. A Tuscan room often looks as though it has been there forever, well-loved and used over many generations. We have Tuscany to thank for some of the most appealing words in our decorating vocabulary: loggia, portico, patios, villas, and outdoor kitchens. These terms evoke thoughts of relaxing summer days spent outdoors amid warm splashes of sun and lush greenery. No wonder so many of us are in love with this style. True Tuscan rooms are low-ceilinged, dark, and small. Modern homes can easily be modified to achieve a Tuscany feel. Instead of dark rooms with low ceilings, the effect can be produced with the use of a variety of color washing and faux wall techniques appropriate to Tuscan interiors. Look for mottled, uneven colors, and old-world, time-worn finishes in warm golden tones springing from a range of earthy ochre's, deep gold's, sunny yellows, rich browns, and warm terra cottas, accented with deep blues, black, rusty reds, and olive greens. Tuscan themes include agricultural products such as olives, grapes, and flowers. Flooring in a Tuscan room might be brick, clay tile, or uneven stone. Architectural features include arched niches, rustic ceiling beams, and simple moldings to underscore a Tuscany theme. Chicken wire cupboard door fronts are another Tuscan element than can easily be incorporated into kitchen cupboards or an armoire. Use copper pots, tin accents, marble, and stone in a Tuscan kitchen. Decorate with sturdy pine storage pieces, a big farmhouse table or island, and bunches of hanging herbs. The earth tones you can bring into your home, inspired by a Tuscan landscape, provides a tranquil yet grounding atmosphere.
