Mediterranean Interior Design: Timeless Elegance inspired by the Sea

Lucy Winterwood
May 1
3 min read

Written by Lucy Winters-Underwood, Founder of Lucy Winterwood Luxury Interior Design Studio. Serving St Albans, Harpenden, Hertfordshire & North London.

Mediterranean interior design is a style that captures the sun-drenched essence of coastal living, blending rustic charm with timeless elegance. Rooted in the cultures of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea such as Italy, Greece, Spain, and Morocco—this design aesthetic is known for its warmth, natural textures, and relaxed sophistication.

Whether you're lucky enough to be revamping a lakeside villa or simply want to infuse your home with a touch of Old World charm, Mediterranean interior design offers a versatile and inviting approach to decorating. In this blog, we delve into some of the key elements of Mediterranean Design.

Elegant Arches & Curves

Modern patio with wicker furniture, soft cushions, and a central table. Glass doors open to a cozy room with stone walls and greenery.

As with every Interior Design project, the bones of the building, the architecture, plays a pivotal role in influencing the style. If you are able to re-imagine the structural design, typical Mediterranean traits such as arched doorways, rounded windows and curved alcoves are frequently used to soften structural lines and add an old-world, romantic touch. In modern applications or simple redecoration projects, these shapes can be replicated through furniture and décor such as mirrors, lighting fixtures and art pieces.

Natural Materials

Modern dining room with a wooden table, eight chairs, plants, and abstract art. Warm lighting, earthy tones, and a calm atmosphere.

One of the defining characteristics of Mediterranean interiors is the use of natural materials. Think terracotta tiles, wood-beamed ceilings, stone walls, and wrought iron accents. These materials not only connect the indoors with nature but also add texture and depth to each room. Wooden furniture is often aged or distressed, contributing to the lived-in feel that’s central to this style.

Warm, Earthy and Traditional Mediterranean Colour Palettes

Elegant bathroom with blue cabinets, floral tiles, round mirror, and soft lighting. Pink flowers adorn the shelf. Cozy and vintage vibe.

Mediterranean interiors are celebrated for their warm and inviting colour schemes. Traditional palettes draw from the surrounding landscape—sandy beiges, sunbaked ochres, olive greens, and rich terracotta tones. In Greek-inspired versions, expect crisp whites and bold blues to echo the sea and sky. These colours are typically applied in layers, creating an atmosphere that feels both vibrant and grounded.

Indoor-Outdoor Living

Outdoor dining area with wicker chairs around a table set for a meal. A lit fireplace in the background adds warmth. Lush greenery surrounds.

Mediterranean homes are designed to blur the line between indoors and outdoors. Open floor plans, large windows and outdoor patios with tile floors and pergolas make it easy to embrace the alfresco lifestyle. Plants—especially olive trees, lavender and herbs—often play a central role in bringing the nature inside.

Layering textures in Textiles and Patterns

Elegant living room with a cream sofa, woven chair, and patterned rug. Large arched windows reveal a patio with greenery. Bright, airy ambiance.

Fabrics in Mediterranean interiors are typically light and breezy—think cotton, linen, and wool. Patterns are inspired by Moorish, Greek, or Italian motifs and often appear in tilework, rugs, or accent pillows. Hand-painted ceramics, mosaic inlays, and patterned tile floors or backsplashes are common ways to inject character and history into the space.

Modern Mediterranean, A Contemporary Twist

Create a space that reflects your personality

While traditional Mediterranean interiors are rich and layered, the modern take on the style tends to simplify and streamline the aesthetic. White walls, minimalist decor, and understated colour palettes give the design a lighter, more contemporary feel. However, the essence remains the same: a celebration of natural beauty, artisan craftsmanship and relaxed living.

To achieve a modern Mediterranean look, consider combining sleek, neutral furniture with raw, organic elements like a stone fireplace or a reclaimed wood table. Swap heavy drapes for sheer curtains that let in plenty of light, and opt for subtle coastal touches—like jute rugs or driftwood accents—to maintain the breezy vibe.

Bringing Mediterranean Design Into Your Home

Hallway with wooden tables, beige lamps, and a vase of white flowers. Mirrors on the wall reflect the elegant, serene decor.

You don’t need a seaside villa to enjoy Mediterranean style. Start small by adding terracotta planters, patterned tiles, or wrought iron light fixtures. Repaint a room in earthy tones or add linen throws and cushions in sun-faded hues. Even a few rustic ceramic vases filled with fresh herbs can evoke the spirit of the Mediterranean.

Ultimately, Mediterranean interior design is about creating a space that feels warm, welcoming, and deeply connected to the natural world. Whether you lean traditional or modern, this design style invites you to slow down, enjoy your surroundings, and embrace the beauty of simple living.