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The Tuscan Decorating
Style:
Understanding the Tuscan Stone
Element
"I want to decorate my home in
the Tuscan style.
How do I decorate with stone for an authentic look?" |
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Seen practically everywhere throughout the hillsides of the Tuscan
region, stone is quite literally a foundational element to Tuscan
architecture, both indoors and out.
Used in farmhouses, churches, castles, and hillside villages alike,
stone has been used as a primary building material throughout Tuscany
and other parts of Europe for many centuries.
Click to see a
2br - lovely cottage
 which
utilizes the Tuscan Element of stone
in its design. |
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Perhaps one of the greatest reasons for
the extensive use of stone throughout Tuscany is the natural abundance
of this element in the volcanic geography.
Throughout history, structures were built
from whatever resources were readily available. For Tuscany, this
material was frequently sandstone (which is easily found near the
surface of the volcanic soil), limestone, and marble, all available in
countless varieties of quality and color.
It was likely the Romans who, by around 40
BC had pioneered the quarrying of stone, and are credited for the
extensive use of it throughout the Tuscan region.
They were quite aware of the importance of
solid building materials and practices for defensive purposes, as well
as the aesthetic value of various architectural details such as columns
and sculptures.
The Romans were particularly fond of
the prized white Carrera marble, as were later architects and sculptors
of the Renaissance period. The love of this beautiful white marble
eventually trickled down to even the simplest of homes, as evidenced in
garden fountains and simple kitchen basins.
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A Tuscan villa featuring stone
exterior
walls and arched entry. Go see for yourself!
Click on picture for rental details.
A stone courtyard demonstrates
effective use of stone arches and columns so prevalent
in Tuscan architecture.
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How is the stone element used in
modern Tuscan design and decorating?
Other prized varieties of
marble soon made their way into Italian homes on the tops of fine
furnishings such as tables and chests. This enduring trend is
popular today, particularly in the Tuscan style of decorating.
Examples of stone
applications commonly used in modern Tuscan "style" homes are marble and
ceramic tiled floors, granite countertops, rough stucco / Venetian
plaster wall treatments, carved urns, garden statuary and fountains.
The permanence, solid durability, and natural beauty of stone have been
enjoyed in the Tuscan home for centuries.
Tuscan Decor features
heirloom quality Italian Marble Fruit
that looks good enough to eat.
The prized Italian Carrara
marble originates from the
same marble quarries in
Tuscany used by Michelangelo
to create his famous
masterpieces, and is artfully
crafted by five skillful
Italian artisans of the
renowned Rovai Family Marble
Works in Italy.
For more information on Tuscan decorating
and employing the Tuscan design style in your home, please visit the Tuscan
Decorating Center. Be sure to bookmark the
Tuscan Design Center, and
check back regularly for updates. We are always adding valuable
tips and advice for decorating your home in Tuscan style. |
Tuscan style furniture featuring hand
forged wrought iron with stone top.
This Mango is hand carved by Italian
artisans
from the prized Carrera marble.
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Tuscan Stone
Accessories: |
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Tuscan Furniture
- Stone & Iron to
suit your style.
Marble Fruit - Natural Stone Fruit
carved by Italian artisans.
Garden Fountains
- Durable faux stone designs will soothe your soul
with the sound of flowing water. |
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Coming Soon!
Decorating in the Tuscan style
can be fun & easy!
The Tuscan Design Center
"Designer-In-You" Home Decor System
will show you how.
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