By Donatella Mazzini and Simona Corradini
Infusing Italian Flair into West Coast Interiors
As the name of our company implies, we (Donatella and Simona) are both Italian, and our interior design style takes inspiration from the wonder that is Italy. Although we live in California, we return to our home country every year – to visit family, source from our vendors and of course, for inspiration.
Drawing from the elegance, history, and artistic heritage of Italy while blending in a more laid-back, contemporary vibe of California we create home designs for our clients that are stylish, classic yet fresh, and beautifully livable. Would you like to bring a bit of Europe into your California home?
Here are a few design tips, along with photos from our most recent trip, this past summer:
Classic Meets Modern: Think of a sleek minimalist living room adorned with a vintage Venetian mirror or a rustic Tuscan dining table paired with modern chairs. This juxtaposition creates a unique and eclectic aesthetic that is both sophisticated and inviting.
Natural Materials and Textures: Italian design emphasizes the use of natural materials like stone, marble, wood, and wrought iron and brass. Consider pairing a marble sink reminiscent of an Italian villa with a modern kitchen; or terracotta tiles to bring warmth and texture to a patio, reminiscent of the landscapes of Tuscany.
Artisanal Craftsmanship: From hand-painted ceramics to custom-made furniture, investing in quality pieces sourced in Italy not only enhances the aesthetic appeal but also creates a sense of connection to European artistry and heritage.
Earth Tones and Neutral Palettes: Italian interiors often feature a palette of earthy tones, inspired by the natural surroundings. Warm beiges, soft browns, and muted greens evoke the tranquility of the countryside.
Maximizing Natural Light: Taking full advantage of natural light is a concept that Italians and Californians share. Large windows and open floor plans invite light in; sheer curtains or strategically placed mirrors can enhance this effect.
Indoor-Outdoor Flow: Taking inspiration from Italian courtyards and terraces, add comfortable seating areas, outdoor kitchens, and lush greenery to the backyard.
Al Fresco Dining: Adding a rustic wooden table, string lights, and potted plants evokes the charm of an Italian piazza and encourages leisurely meals under an open sky – embodying the relaxed, communal spirit of both cultures.
Curated Collections: Europeans, particularly Italians, have a knack for curating collections of art, books, and antiques. Californians can adopt this approach by displaying personal collections that tell a story and add character to their homes.
Timeless Elegance: Choose pieces that transcend trends – quality over quantity, classic pieces, and a cohesive design scheme can create interiors that are both stylish and enduring.
To see more of what is possible when bringing Italian aesthetics and sensibilities into California homes, visit www.florentine-design.com
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Photo info:
Marble and coffered ceilings balance the contemporary feel of the lighting and colors in this completely transformed kitchen in San Francisco. Interior Design by Florentine Design. Photographer: Nadia Andreini | DILUNA Photography
Venice Canal: Colors mirrored by the water are a feast for the eyes. Photographer: Donatella Mazzini
This modern chandelier perfectly fits in the classic foyer of this San Francisco Victorian; Interior Design by Florentine Design. Photographer: Nadia Andreini | DILUNA Photography
Minimalism meets beautiful details in this restaurant interior – with a Murano glass chandelier, rich wood tables and beautiful, original, 1500s vaulted ceilings; in Tolentino, Italy. Photographer Simona Corradini
Donatella Mazzini (left) and Simona Corradini (right), founders of Florentine Design