Tuscan Italian, Mediterra, Naples, FL

Tuscan architecture is the traditional architecture of a region in central Italy called Tuscany. With simple, clean lines and elements drawn from the Roman Empire, Tuscan architecture is rustic yet sophisticated. The style is particularly well suited to its original Mediterranean settings and other areas of the world with similar features.

Stone, wood, wrought iron and tile are some of the building materials commonly used in Tuscan style buildings.

Tuscany is a region with deep roots in antiquity, and many of its buildings have been in use for generations, with extensions and additions added over time. Stone used in the building is often terracotta brick and may be used for whole walls, or to fill in areas between stones, door frames, and windows.

Newer Tuscan style homes continue to use a look of roughly dressed stone for exterior walls as well as patios and garden walls.

Interior walls are generally plaster, with textured designs on the surface. Paint colors for the walls are neutral but accent colors are warm rich earth tones, yellows, reds and greens. Murals painted directly on walls are a traditional touch. Windows are arched and framed with full-size wooden shutters. Fireplaces are common and have stone hearths, often marble or travertine, and mantelpieces of either stone or rugged wood.