Our environment has a subtle yet profound effect on our moods and well-being, often without us being fully aware of it. A thoughtfully designed home remodel can capture a specific atmosphere, like bottling a fine wine, letting you enjoy that mood every day. Tuscan design embodies the craftsmanship, history, and spirit of Renaissance Italy, infusing your home with the charm of Florence, Siena, Pisa, and the Tuscan countryside.
That said, Tuscan style is not for every home—it’s bold and sensory. The colours are rich and warm, and materials like stone and specialty tiles can be expensive. However, if you’re drawn to this aesthetic, it can be achieved, sometimes more affordably than you might expect.
A great entry point into Tuscan design is through its distinctive colour palette. Many Tuscan-inspired remodels start with paint. Burnt sienna, a warm, earthy shade reminiscent of a sunset, is a hallmark of Tuscan style. The palette reflects the natural landscape of Tuscany, with shades of deep blue-green from the Tyrrhenian Sea, vibrant blue skies, and the golden hues of sunflowers.
The living room is an ideal space to experiment with these bold colours since it’s a neutral area where strong hues won’t affect sleep or meal times. If painting the kitchen, remember to harmonize the colours with the room’s dominant tones.
Tuscan-style flooring typically includes terracotta tiles, travertine, tumbled stone, and wood planks. Handcrafted terracotta tiles, fired to a hard, durable finish, have a timeworn surface that complements antique-style wall finishes. The iconic burnt sienna colour comes from Siena, a Tuscan city where the clay is mined and fired to achieve its reddish-brown hue.
Tumbled stone or travertine tiles are another option, with their textured surfaces and rounded edges evoking the look of floors that have seen centuries of wear. Distressed wood planks, typically six inches wide, add an antique feel with pre-aged impressions, enhancing the rustic charm.
If a full Tuscan remodel feels too much, consider starting with the kitchen. Tuscany is closely associated with hearty, flavourful cuisine—porchetta, pasta, olive oil, and more—so it’s a natural fit for this style.
Tuscan kitchens often feature solid wood cabinetry with dark stains and intricate detailing. Stone veneer is frequently used to frame the oven or stove with a dramatic arched surround. For a budget-friendly touch, consider a premium Italian tile backsplash, focusing on a small area like behind the stove or adding accent tiles to bring in a touch of Tuscan flair.
Stonework, even when replicated with manufactured stone veneer, is central to Tuscan design. This cost-effective alternative mimics real quarried stone, offering the timeless look of Old World craftsmanship without the expense or complexity of traditional stone installation.
