Tuscan Inspiration

My house is in dire need of some interior (and exterior) designing. We've always been interested in Victorian style but this house just doesn't quite fit the bill. I've been considering transforming it into a Tuscorian Villa! Ever since I discovered that exposed beams are common in Tuscan homes, I thought, hey, I have 3 rooms with those beams... maybe we're on to something here. I am a quarter Italian and love the food...

So I surfed online for Tuscan ideas and checked out some books from the library. The library didn't offer any books dealing solely with Tuscan decor. I did find one with a charming story packed with beautiful photos, of a California couple that restored a Villa in Tuscany. Bringing Tuscany Home isn't about the restoration but about the different aspects of the Italian countryside they fell in love with. They have their villa in Tuscany and Mediterranean style home in Marin that is heavily influenced by their love of the Tuscan life. The author, Frances Mayes, is the author of the popular novel and movie, Under the Tuscan Sun.

I like just about every major feature to Tuscan style. There's the textured walls, old world style fixtures and furniture, warm - earthy colors, wood accents, tile, rich fabrics, Trompe L'Oeil, etc. The major structural disadvantages I face are lack of high ceilings and arches. And the only Tuscan accent I'm not crazy about is wrought iron.

This week I will tackle a gnocchi recipe

Maybe next week I'll paint my living room with a faux textured look with the ragging off technique. But then again tackling the plant eating pest in my garden may be the priority over my Tuscan living room.