A popular style of decorating, Mediterranean style is warm and inviting. It is perfect for creating a comfortable home in which you can enjoy friends and family. By making a few simple changes to your great room, you can give it a Mediterranean flavor adding a beautiful earthy style to your living space.

Textured Walls

In a Mediterranean style room the walls are generally covered in an earth tone color. In this style of decorating, the texture of the walls is as important as the color of the walls. Textures are rough and rustic, and using sand paint or stucco will produce a beautiful Mediterranean style wall. Once the texture is correct, paint colors should be warm, sunny tones applied in muted washes. Color, texture and tone should all be uneven and imperfect, because it is this slightly rustic effect that gives Mediterranean style its charm.

Warm Floors

Mediterranean floors are frequently terra cotta tile or brick also in a sunny, warm color. If your floors are carpeted or hardwood, and you do not want to change them, you can address the floors by using Mediterranean influenced area rugs throughout the room. These rugs will pull color to the floor and help tie the look together.

Solid Furniture

Your furniture can have an ornate flair, or you can go with a more simple, natural look. Generally Mediterranean furniture is constructed from dark wood and it is frequently inlaid with marble or tile with iron accents. Low slung and solid the furniture upholstery should also be in rich warm colors. Bolder colors can be used for accent colors like yellow, lavender and blue, but keep your furniture sparse to keep the look authentic. Pillows and throw blankets draped over the back of the couch simply add to the warmth and coziness of the room.

Personalize Accessories

When adding accessories to a Mediterranean style great room, try not to clutter the room. A few well-chosen accessories like a wrought iron wine rack coupled with an iron chandelier or candle sconces add an authentic element to the room. If your room has a fireplace, use is as your focal point of the room by adding a fireplace screen. Beautiful pottery in bright accent colors, framed family photographs and few large pots with plants will complete the room. Again take care not to overdo the accessories but do add a few personal treasures to the room.

Dramatic Focal Points

Mediterranean homes adorn their walls with wall hangings and tapestries, which can also double as a window treatment when coupled with a wrought iron rod. If your room does not have a fireplace, then a large piece of art either hanging on the wall or displayed on a table can grab the attention of anyone walking into the room. Hang a painting of a seascape or vineyard at eye level to accent it as a focal point of the room.

Adding a Mediterranean flavor to your great room will make it one of your most beautiful and comfortable rooms in your house. Homey and inviting, your family will share many wonderful family memories in this room.