Interior Design

with Gill Greenwell

As I write this, I am looking at a beautiful blue sky and dreaming of the summer holidays. Many of you will be spending August in sunnier climes – why not transport some of that relaxed Mediterranean holiday feel into your own home? Here are some ideas to get you started.

Bring some freshness and vitality to your décor; think soft whites with splashes of Mediterranean blues, turquoise and sea green, or zing it up with a pop of lemon. I’ve just painted my bathroom a beautiful aqua blue-green, inspired by some undersea pictures I brought back from holiday. It’s a lovely space to unwind and relax in.

For a warmer feel, be inspired by the Tuscan sunshine with a colour palette of saffron, terracotta and burnt umber. Or go bold with Cole and Son’s Bougainvillea wallpaper, available in a range of beautiful bright Spanish-inspired colourways.

Nothing screams Mediterranean

Image: Annie Sloan more than painted tiles. Add some boho charm with patterned tiles, perfect for a shower room or a new kitchen splashback. Search out handmade Moroccan or Turkish tiles with traditional motifs. Otto Tiles has a great selection – their encaustic tiles come in a wide range of colours and patterns – or for a more rustic handmade feel, look at the Zellige collection.

Sofas with faded linen or cotton covers are perfect for this laid-back look. Switch out your cushions for some with bold block printed patterns in Mediterranean shades of oceanic blue, burnt orange or golden yellow; check out OKA for inspiration.

Bring some character to the kitchen or outside space with rustic painted Provencal style chairs. I have matched a washed-out blue striped cushion with my charity shop find French antique chair and love sitting in it in the summer sipping my morning coffee.

Image: Dunelm

For that authentic, rustic feel add texture with rugs made of natural materials – La Redoute and Weaver Green have some great designs. Natural cane and rattan furniture have a summery vibe and can be used inside and out. Dunelm’s jute floor cushion would look great on an outside lounging area, and don’t forget the plants – a few judiciously placed palms, olive trees and geraniums will make you feel like you are in a Provencal courtyard.

Finally, add some Mediterranean chic to your inside or outside space by accessorising with wicker baskets, bright tablecloths, bold hand-painted crockery, and artisan made coloured glasses and vases. I particularly love Anthropologie’s gorgeous range of brightly coloured tableware and the artisan Spanish glassware at Maison du Monde. But ideally your home should be full of beautiful items brought back from your summer holidays!