Spain is a country of bullfighting and captivating dark-haired beauties dancing flamenco, having survived difficult times in the past. She rose to unprecedented heights and just as rapidly fell down to the feet of the Moorish conquerors. Typical for southern Europe, the Spanish style has undergone changes along with the state. If initially the local interiors did not differ much from the design of houses in neighboring countries, then after the wars unusual elements appeared in them, which later became the hallmark of the direction.
Geographically, the state is located on the Gibraltar border between Africa and Europe. On the one hand, Spain is adjacent to Portugal and France, and on the other, to Algeria and Morocco. It was because of its geographical location that the country was once attacked by the Moors. The invaders were able to secure for themselves only part of the then territory of the state, but the Moorish style managed to leave a noticeable imprint on Spanish culture and in the same direction during this time. The amazing mixture of Europe and Africa is continued in the eternal search for harmony between nature and man.The Spaniards are passionate, quick-tempered people, but at the same time easy-going, cheerful and hospitable. Excessive “ardor” of character is manifested in many decorative elements and details.
The conquest of South America by the Spaniards themselves, led by Cortes, also left their mark on their culture. Although the conquistadors themselves were convinced that only their traditions had seeped into the lands of the Aztecs, and the local natives could not have such an effect on the invaders. The Spanish style in the interior belongs to the group of ethnic trends. It combines European fundamentals with light Arabic motifs and Latin American notes. We will talk about how to correctly furnish an apartment in the Spanish style in this article.
The direction is much like a colonial style. The latter is a successful “mixture” of the Spanish culture and customs of the natives, in whose territories the colonialists settled down. The advantages of the direction include:
The brightness of colors and the freshness of the palette. In southern Spanish interiors use soft, warm shades and very colorful accent tones.
Arrival of a large amount of light due to wide windows. Spanish rooms literally bathe in the sun. Unlike the Berbers, who hide from the luminary in chilled-ceramic rooms, these southerners are not afraid to overheat.
Eccentricity, non-standard environment.
There are no significant shortcomings in the direction. Of the relative minuses note:
There is a high likelihood of quick satiation with too bright and dynamic surroundings.
The style is contraindicated for people with Nordic characters, since the Spaniards' passion, which is reflected in the stylistic features, will not give comfort to unemotional owners with a cold mind.
Before choosing this particular stylistic solution for decorating interior compositions, it might be worth plunging headlong into a typical Spanish setting. For these purposes, it is not necessary to go on a trip, and local theme bars or restaurants are suitable.
Features and characteristics of the Spanish style
Spanish style is classified into two types:
Classical. In this manner, the decoration of the houses was completed until about the end of the second half of the 19th century.
Modern. Over the past hundred years, the style has moved a little “polishing” with time to adapt to modern realities. The final version turned out great.
The traditional Spanish style has similarities with ordinary classics: expensive materials, darker shades, an abundance of decor, luxury in every detail. The modern version does not apply certain elements that may cause inconvenience. For example, arched openings without doors. Also, various benefits of technological progress have been added to the modern adaptation, without which not a single interior is complete. In a Spanish setting, combinations of light background tones and vibrant accents are used.
Mandatory the presence of massive dark wood furniture and forged elements. Decorative details are grouped in separate sections of the room. If you use the "rustic" version of the Spanish style, then it is necessary to have handmade textiles (rugs, pillowcases). A number of wooden beams are traditionally left on the ceiling, which alternate with plastered areas. If there are no such structures in the apartment, then they can be added as decoration for greater resemblance to Castilian houses.
Designers recommend decorating all rooms in the Spanish style. This tip applies to small cottages and one-room apartments. But in spacious country houses with many rooms, you can experiment with combined ethnic design, where Spanish will become only an integral part of a complex, stylistic picture.
Each room can symbolize a separate country. The Japanese style will reign in the bathroom, the notes of Italy will decorate the bedroom, and the Spanish direction will transform the living room.
The color palette in the interior
The basic color in the Spanish interior is brown. Its shades can be used not only in the decoration of walls and floors, but also on the surfaces of furniture, textiles, decor. Among the most relevant tones are noted: mahogany color, classic light walnut, beige, terracotta, coffee with milk. In a duet with brown, snow-white is also used for background decoration. Usually it appears in the plastered walls.
Accent areas are formed mainly in natural shades: red, coral, pink, fuchsia, olive, mustard, yellow, orange, lilac. Slightly less often use blue, cyan and purple. These shades are more suitable for the modern adaptation of the Spanish direction.
Materials and methods of decoration
To get a designer interior in the Spanish style, you have to spend money. This direction gravitates to natural materials, so save does not work. The walls are traditionally decorated with simple plaster of white, pearl, beige color. The ceiling with wooden beams is decorated with the same material. In modern apartments there are options where relief Venetian stucco is used, but this solution is not typical for the classical style.
As for the floor, in ordinary rooms it is covered with a parquet board, but in the kitchen you can use not only ceramic tiles, but even brick.The last option is knocked out of the usual decoration methods. Brick instead of flooring really looks non-trivial and original. This option is perfect for those kitchens that go directly to the back patio. In landscape design, you can use the same brick when decorating paths, which will “tie” the interior of the room to the external design.
By the way, owners of country houses should pay attention to the Spanish style in the exterior and landscape design. Incredibly cozy back yards with terraces, arched vaults, thickets of blooming, odorous greens will become a real decoration of the land.
Light and lighting
Spanish interiors are characterized by the use of low hanging chandeliers. Moreover, the ceiling can have various shapes and can be made of different materials, but the "low landing" is common to all. Perhaps this tradition is associated with high ceilings that used to decorate typical Spanish houses. Instead of chandeliers, candlesticks were used, which gave little light. Apparently, to adjust and increase the brightness, the chandeliers were lowered.
Additional lighting is represented mainly by floor and table lamps and floor lamps. Sconces that are familiar to a modern person are rarely hung on the walls. If the need for such decoration arose, then the surface is decorated with an original lamp imitating a candlestick. Then it will be possible to achieve similarities with the classic Spanish interiors of the Middle Ages (especially if the walls are painted in green, yellow or dark brown). In modern adaptations often use decorative lighting around the perimeter of the room or along niches, shelves.
Traditional spanish furniture - what is it like
In Spain, heavy, bulky furniture made of natural wood is used. No MDF, particleboard, chipboard and other pressed substitutes and imitations, just an array of wood.The facades of the cabinets are only slightly decorated with carvings, without surplus. The legs of sofas, armchairs, and chairs also have elegant shapes and a neat relief. Soft surfaces are covered with covers or bedspreads of dark tones with a restrained pattern. Headboards, fireplace grills, decorative details of shelves and storage systems are decorated with wrought iron elements. The village apartments use wicker chairs and chairs. In the Spanish style, they flow organically.
Decorative items and accessories
As mentioned above, the Spanish style does not tolerate an abundance of decor. First of all, you need to pick up textiles. Preference is given to natural, pleasant to the touch fabrics: linen, cotton, wool. The floors are covered with rugs with a complex, colorful pattern. In rustic interiors, homespun walkways are used. Windows are rarely curtained with curtains. Usually used the Spanish version of the "Roman" model with imitation of bamboo modules. If the windows are large, as in the country houses of Spain, then they do not need to be closed at all. Paintings are hung on the walls, and shelves are forced with souvenirs and wood products, ceramics, clay. It can be vases, caskets, candlesticks, plates, wicker baskets, flower pots.
Spanish style cuisine
Spanish cuisine is finished with ceramic tiles or bricks in combination with simple plaster. The set can be chosen not only in traditional brown tones, but also in green and olive colors. The furniture is necessarily made of wood. Spanish cuisine is characterized by the use of island layout. In the center of the room (closer to the stove) they put a large, elongated table, which can serve as the workplace of the hostess, a dining area and even a bar counter. On the ceiling, traditionally decorated with beams, hang a group of the same type of chandelier over each functional area. Decorate the kitchenette with brass or copper teapots, ladles, bowls. A basket of fresh fruits is always placed on the table.Open shelves are filled with plates and cups, and a set of pans can be placed directly on the front of the hood.
Spanish style bedroom
The Spanish bedroom is minimalist in detail. Large, wide bed, decorated with wrought iron elements. She is covered with a plain brown, red or yellow blanket. Pillows will become a motley note. Walls with bare stucco are decorated with classic paintings. On either side of the bed, two symmetrical bedside tables made of solid dark wood are installed. A dressing table made of the same material and a chair with a straight back are placed next to one of the free walls. The ceiling is also covered with white plaster, which alternates with wooden beams. The interior of the ascetic bedroom is completed by a pair of rectangular mirrors in strict frames on the walls.
Spanish style living room
A traditional furniture set is placed in the living room: sofa, coffee table, a couple of armchairs. A fireplace will become an organic addition to the decor, without which not a single gidalgo house could have done before. The table is made of wood, the furniture is covered with covers of bright or dark shades. The walls are decorated with large paintings (if the room is spacious), mirrors in wrought iron frames, and the surfaces are decorated with floor lamps with “lush” shades, vases with flowers. The floor must be covered with a rug.
Spanish bathroom
The walls and floor of the Spanish-style bathroom are tiled. Moreover, a combination of two types of patterns and one primary color (usually white) is acceptable. Showers are rarely used. Better to use a traditional white bath. Decor elements are made of brass (faucet, soap dish, towel holders and cups for toothbrushes). Although this is not rational, wooden furniture is also installed in the bathroom. To protect it from constant exposure to moisture, the surface must be treated with a special composition.
By the way, the basket for dirty laundry can be transformed using a special spraying that simulates metal. The sink is chosen either classic white or stone overlay.
Conclusion
The Spanish style in the interior reflects the difficult nature of this temperamental people. It shows hospitality, cordiality, passion, but also quick temper, frivolity. It is amazing how accurately the house conveys the character of the person who lives in it. Spanish interiors are ideal for decorating southern apartments, because it is in the "native" climate that style features flourish like lantana.
Spain is a country of bullfighting and captivating dark-haired beauties dancing flamenco, having survived difficult times in the past. She rose to unprecedented heights and just as rapidly fell down to the feet of the Moorish conquerors. Typical for southern Europe, the Spanish style has undergone changes along with the state. If initially the local interiors did not differ much from the design of houses in neighboring countries, then after the wars unusual elements appeared in them, which later became the hallmark of the direction.
Geographically, the state is located on the Gibraltar border between Africa and Europe. On the one hand, Spain is adjacent to Portugal and France, and on the other, to Algeria and Morocco. It was because of its geographical location that the country was once attacked by the Moors. The invaders were able to secure for themselves only part of the then territory of the state, but the Moorish style managed to leave a noticeable imprint on Spanish culture and in the same direction during this time. The amazing mixture of Europe and Africa is continued in the eternal search for harmony between nature and man.The Spaniards are passionate, quick-tempered people, but at the same time easy-going, cheerful and hospitable. Excessive “ardor” of character is manifested in many decorative elements and details.
The conquest of South America by the Spaniards themselves, led by Cortes, also left their mark on their culture. Although the conquistadors themselves were convinced that only their traditions had seeped into the lands of the Aztecs, and the local natives could not have such an effect on the invaders. The Spanish style in the interior belongs to the group of ethnic trends. It combines European fundamentals with light Arabic motifs and Latin American notes. We will talk about how to correctly furnish an apartment in the Spanish style in this article.
Content
Pros and Cons of Style
The direction is much like a colonial style. The latter is a successful “mixture” of the Spanish culture and customs of the natives, in whose territories the colonialists settled down. The advantages of the direction include:
There are no significant shortcomings in the direction. Of the relative minuses note:
Before choosing this particular stylistic solution for decorating interior compositions, it might be worth plunging headlong into a typical Spanish setting. For these purposes, it is not necessary to go on a trip, and local theme bars or restaurants are suitable.
Features and characteristics of the Spanish style
Spanish style is classified into two types:
The traditional Spanish style has similarities with ordinary classics: expensive materials, darker shades, an abundance of decor, luxury in every detail. The modern version does not apply certain elements that may cause inconvenience. For example, arched openings without doors. Also, various benefits of technological progress have been added to the modern adaptation, without which not a single interior is complete. In a Spanish setting, combinations of light background tones and vibrant accents are used.
Mandatory the presence of massive dark wood furniture and forged elements. Decorative details are grouped in separate sections of the room. If you use the "rustic" version of the Spanish style, then it is necessary to have handmade textiles (rugs, pillowcases). A number of wooden beams are traditionally left on the ceiling, which alternate with plastered areas. If there are no such structures in the apartment, then they can be added as decoration for greater resemblance to Castilian houses.
Each room can symbolize a separate country. The Japanese style will reign in the bathroom, the notes of Italy will decorate the bedroom, and the Spanish direction will transform the living room.
The color palette in the interior
The basic color in the Spanish interior is brown. Its shades can be used not only in the decoration of walls and floors, but also on the surfaces of furniture, textiles, decor. Among the most relevant tones are noted: mahogany color, classic light walnut, beige, terracotta, coffee with milk. In a duet with brown, snow-white is also used for background decoration. Usually it appears in the plastered walls.
Accent areas are formed mainly in natural shades: red, coral, pink, fuchsia, olive, mustard, yellow, orange, lilac. Slightly less often use blue, cyan and purple. These shades are more suitable for the modern adaptation of the Spanish direction.
Materials and methods of decoration
To get a designer interior in the Spanish style, you have to spend money. This direction gravitates to natural materials, so save does not work. The walls are traditionally decorated with simple plaster of white, pearl, beige color. The ceiling with wooden beams is decorated with the same material. In modern apartments there are options where relief Venetian stucco is used, but this solution is not typical for the classical style.
As for the floor, in ordinary rooms it is covered with a parquet board, but in the kitchen you can use not only ceramic tiles, but even brick.The last option is knocked out of the usual decoration methods. Brick instead of flooring really looks non-trivial and original. This option is perfect for those kitchens that go directly to the back patio. In landscape design, you can use the same brick when decorating paths, which will “tie” the interior of the room to the external design.
Light and lighting
Spanish interiors are characterized by the use of low hanging chandeliers. Moreover, the ceiling can have various shapes and can be made of different materials, but the "low landing" is common to all. Perhaps this tradition is associated with high ceilings that used to decorate typical Spanish houses. Instead of chandeliers, candlesticks were used, which gave little light. Apparently, to adjust and increase the brightness, the chandeliers were lowered.
Additional lighting is represented mainly by floor and table lamps and floor lamps. Sconces that are familiar to a modern person are rarely hung on the walls. If the need for such decoration arose, then the surface is decorated with an original lamp imitating a candlestick. Then it will be possible to achieve similarities with the classic Spanish interiors of the Middle Ages (especially if the walls are painted in green, yellow or dark brown). In modern adaptations often use decorative lighting around the perimeter of the room or along niches, shelves.
Traditional spanish furniture - what is it like
In Spain, heavy, bulky furniture made of natural wood is used. No MDF, particleboard, chipboard and other pressed substitutes and imitations, just an array of wood.The facades of the cabinets are only slightly decorated with carvings, without surplus. The legs of sofas, armchairs, and chairs also have elegant shapes and a neat relief. Soft surfaces are covered with covers or bedspreads of dark tones with a restrained pattern. Headboards, fireplace grills, decorative details of shelves and storage systems are decorated with wrought iron elements. The village apartments use wicker chairs and chairs. In the Spanish style, they flow organically.
Decorative items and accessories
As mentioned above, the Spanish style does not tolerate an abundance of decor. First of all, you need to pick up textiles. Preference is given to natural, pleasant to the touch fabrics: linen, cotton, wool. The floors are covered with rugs with a complex, colorful pattern. In rustic interiors, homespun walkways are used. Windows are rarely curtained with curtains. Usually used the Spanish version of the "Roman" model with imitation of bamboo modules. If the windows are large, as in the country houses of Spain, then they do not need to be closed at all. Paintings are hung on the walls, and shelves are forced with souvenirs and wood products, ceramics, clay. It can be vases, caskets, candlesticks, plates, wicker baskets, flower pots.
Spanish style cuisine
Spanish cuisine is finished with ceramic tiles or bricks in combination with simple plaster. The set can be chosen not only in traditional brown tones, but also in green and olive colors. The furniture is necessarily made of wood. Spanish cuisine is characterized by the use of island layout. In the center of the room (closer to the stove) they put a large, elongated table, which can serve as the workplace of the hostess, a dining area and even a bar counter. On the ceiling, traditionally decorated with beams, hang a group of the same type of chandelier over each functional area. Decorate the kitchenette with brass or copper teapots, ladles, bowls. A basket of fresh fruits is always placed on the table.Open shelves are filled with plates and cups, and a set of pans can be placed directly on the front of the hood.
Spanish style bedroom
The Spanish bedroom is minimalist in detail. Large, wide bed, decorated with wrought iron elements. She is covered with a plain brown, red or yellow blanket. Pillows will become a motley note. Walls with bare stucco are decorated with classic paintings. On either side of the bed, two symmetrical bedside tables made of solid dark wood are installed. A dressing table made of the same material and a chair with a straight back are placed next to one of the free walls. The ceiling is also covered with white plaster, which alternates with wooden beams. The interior of the ascetic bedroom is completed by a pair of rectangular mirrors in strict frames on the walls.
Spanish style living room
A traditional furniture set is placed in the living room: sofa, coffee table, a couple of armchairs. A fireplace will become an organic addition to the decor, without which not a single gidalgo house could have done before. The table is made of wood, the furniture is covered with covers of bright or dark shades. The walls are decorated with large paintings (if the room is spacious), mirrors in wrought iron frames, and the surfaces are decorated with floor lamps with “lush” shades, vases with flowers. The floor must be covered with a rug.
Spanish bathroom
The walls and floor of the Spanish-style bathroom are tiled. Moreover, a combination of two types of patterns and one primary color (usually white) is acceptable. Showers are rarely used. Better to use a traditional white bath. Decor elements are made of brass (faucet, soap dish, towel holders and cups for toothbrushes). Although this is not rational, wooden furniture is also installed in the bathroom. To protect it from constant exposure to moisture, the surface must be treated with a special composition.
Conclusion
The Spanish style in the interior reflects the difficult nature of this temperamental people. It shows hospitality, cordiality, passion, but also quick temper, frivolity. It is amazing how accurately the house conveys the character of the person who lives in it. Spanish interiors are ideal for decorating southern apartments, because it is in the "native" climate that style features flourish like lantana.