What Sets Mediterranean and Spanish Styles Apart?

The difference between Mediterranean and Spanish style homes is often a point of confusion for many. Although both styles share similar features, there are a few important differences that set them apart. Here are some of the key differences between Mediterranean and Spanish style homes:
  • Exterior Style: Spanish architecture is known for its simplicity, with fewer ornate details and a focus on functionality. On the other hand, Mediterranean style homes are more elaborate, with intricate details and ornamentation.
  • Color Scheme: While both Mediterranean and Spanish styles use warm, earthy colors, Mediterranean homes often feature brighter, more vibrant colors.
  • Roofing: Spanish style homes typically have flat or low-pitched roofs made of clay tiles, while Mediterranean homes often have roof tiles with a more curved shape and steeper pitch.
  • Interior Design: Mediterranean homes often feature bright, open spaces that blend indoor and outdoor living, while Spanish homes typically have a more formal layout and dark, cozy interiors.
  • Landscaping: Both styles of homes often feature lush, tropical landscaping, but Mediterranean landscaping tends to be more colorful and organic, while Spanish landscaping is more structured and formal.
  • In summary, while both Mediterranean and Spanish styles have similar influences, they each have unique features that make them distinct. Whether you prefer the simpler, more functional style of Spanish architecture or the elaborate, ornate style of Mediterranean homes, it’s important to understand the differences between the two when choosing a style for your own home.
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    Understanding the Mediterranean Style

    Mediterranean style homes are often inspired by the architectural styles of countries surrounding the Mediterranean sea, including Greece, Italy, and Spain. It is characterized by its warm, earthy colors, textured walls, and red tiled roofs. Mediterranean homes are typically designed to let in plenty of natural light and to be open and airy in their design. The Mediterranean style is known for its distinctive arches, columns, and heavy wooden doors. It is also often adorned with decorative iron accents, intricate tile work, and wrought iron balconies. This style is popular in warm, sunny climates, but it can also be adapted to cooler climates by incorporating elements that provide warmth.

    Key Features of a Mediterranean Home

    – Terra cotta or clay tile roofs – Stucco exterior walls – Arched entryways – Decorative wrought iron elements – Warm and earthy color palettes – Textured walls and surfaces – Wooden shutters – Hand-painted tiles used for walls or floors – Courtyards or terraces for outdoor living – Large and open floor plans

    The Spanish Style in Architecture

    The Spanish style in architecture originated in Spain during the 16th and 17th centuries. It is characterized by its ornate details, such as intricately carved wooden doors, wrought iron balconies, and ornate tile work. The Spanish style is often confused with the Mediterranean style, but it has some distinct differences.

    Characteristics of a Spanish Home

    – Smooth and plaster exterior walls – Cluttered brick or stone accents – Red tiled roofs – Arched windows and doors with intricate details – Spiral columns and pillars – Wrought iron balconies – Wooden doors with intricate carvings – Exposed beams – Darker and dramatic color palettes
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    Differences and Similarities Between Mediterranean and Spanish Styles

    Although Mediterranean styles of homes have been influenced by architectural style of Spain, they do have significant differences compared to Spanish home styles. Spanish architecture is usually simpler in its exterior style as opposed to Mediterranean and is confined to a few ornate details to the areas around windows and arches. Moreover, Mediterranean architecture originates from Greece and Italy as well as Spain, while Spanish architecture is exclusive to Spain. Both styles embrace warm and earthy color palettes, open and airy floor plans, and intricate details. Mediterranean, however, incorporates more textured and stuccoed walls, while Spanish has smoother walls with added texture through clutters of brick and stone. Additionally, Mediterranean architecture features arched, classical shapes in ceramics and ironwork while Spanish architecture can lean more towards ornate designs with spiral columns and intricate wood carving.

    Interior Design in Mediterranean and Spanish Homes

    The interior design in Mediterranean homes is often simple yet elegant and features clean lines, rustic wooden beams, and earthy elements. Terra cotta tiles and polished concrete floors are common in Mediterranean homes. Spanish homes, on the other hand, tend to feature elaborate details, such as hand-painted tiles, heavy curtains, and dark wooden furniture. Both styles favor indoor-outdoor living with access to patios, terraces, and courtyards. Mediterranean homes tend to have more of an airy feeling, with lots of natural light, while Spanish homes often have darker interiors with light filtering through small intricate details.

    Choosing Between Mediterranean and Spanish Style for Your Home

    When choosing between Mediterranean and Spanish style for your home, consider factors like your location, climate, and personal preference. If you live in a warm, sunny climate, both styles will work well. If you prefer a more rustic, organic look, then Mediterranean may be the way to go. If you prefer a more ornate, detailed style, then Spanish may be more your speed.
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    Ultimately, both styles have their own unique charm and character, and the decision between the two will come down to personal preference. However, it is important to work with a trained architect or designer when building or renovating your home to ensure that your vision can be brought to life.

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