Sun-drenched landscapes, history, culture, and food – Italy has it all and then some. There are many reasons to feel inspired by the Bel Paese, and if you can’t get there this summer, why not bring a slice of Italian style to your home? From the rustic Tuscan countryside to the grand architecture of cities like Rome, there’s something undeniably special about how Italians live and decorate their spaces.
For those dreaming of designing their Italian-style villa, Arhaus is a go-to source for furniture. Inspired by nature and emphasizing craftsmanship, this high-end brand mirrors the ethos of furniture-making championed by the Italians.
In this guide, we’ll explore the key design elements that define Italian villas, inviting you to bring the spirit of ‘la dolce vita’ into your everyday life.
Table of Contents
Natural Materials
From using farm-to-table ingredients in their cuisine to wearing lightweight linen shirts and leather sandals, Italians embrace nature in every way possible. Echo their love for the natural world by layering natural materials in your home. You’ll find natural textiles and materials in Italian villas, including rustic wood furniture, marble countertops, and crisp cotton draperies. If you live by the sea, consider handwoven rattan chairs, like Arhaus Milo Dining Chairs.
Earth Tones
Have you ever walked into an Italian villa and felt immediately at ease? Despite their grandeur, they are known for being approachable. Part of this is due to the Italians’ mastery over color. They love painting their walls in warm, earthy hues like terracotta red, sunshine yellow, and soft sage. Earth tones will instantly warm your home and make it feel as welcoming as a summer day on the Med.
Airy Window Treatments
More than anything, Italian villas are known for their beautiful natural light. Even if you don’t share the same gorgeous weather as a villa in Siena, you can still maximize the light in your home. To do this, look for lightweight or sheer curtains to let natural light flood your space. This will create an airy, open feel that will foster a greater connection with your surroundings, country, or city scenes.
Ceramic Tile
Another villa design staple is ceramic tiles. Some designers say the most important part of an Italian’s home is their flooring, primarily because the Italians have always embraced the art of tiling. Consider adding your own hand-painted mosaic tile floors in bathrooms and kitchens. Or, commission a one-of-a-kind kitchen tile backsplash for a personal, old-world touch you can enjoy while cooking.
Wood Furniture
Antique wooden furniture is another mainstay in Italian villas. Pieces that evoke the warmth and character of the countryside, like the Arhaus Rustic Console Table are perfect for adding a sense of laid-back luxury. Blend the rustic with the ornate, as the Italians would. For example, a table with a distressed finish might be accompanied by dining chairs with hand-carved details. Nothing should be too perfect – the Italians love a worn-in look that makes it feel like an object has a story.
Dining Area
In Italian culture, the experience of dining together is cherished. To celebrate this important gathering time each day, ensure your dining room and kitchen are focal points of the home. Invest in a high-quality, large dining table, like the Arhaus Rho Flip-Top Dining Table, to seat your family and friends. To create an Italian tablescape, bring together eclectic tableware, including hand-painted plates, candles, and colored glassware. Fresh flowers are a must.
Luxurious Art & Antique Pieces
The French are known for designing opulent interiors like Versailles, but Italians are also considered masters of luxury. Sprinkle in some luxurious accents among all the warm wood and natural accents in your villa. Crystal chandeliers, wrought iron beds, antique furniture in gilded frames, and marble-topped coffee tables will bring a timeless and regal elegance to your space.
Shop Arhaus Jordan Bell’Arte Dining Side Chairs
Why Choose Arhaus Furniture from Kaiyo?
From rustic wooden dining tables to glittering accent pieces, Arhaus is a treasure trove of inspiration for the Italian villa style. While Arhaus furniture is expensive when purchased new, Kaiyo makes it more affordable by selling pre-owned pieces for less. Plus, by shopping with Kaiyo, you’ll contribute to sustainable living by giving beautiful Arhaus pieces a second life.
Shop our full collection of Arhaus furniture here.
