Italian styling encompasses a wide range: from casual, charming Tuscan villas to grand old world homes. What they all have in common is a celebration of art, nature, beauty and most importantly, family. Even in a modest Italian cottage, nothing is truly small. Here are some ideas to bring Italian styling to your home – whether you love elegant grandeur or simple coziness:

Warm walls. Italian homes typically have warm colours on the walls – whether cream, yellow, rich green or earthy brown. Oftentimes walls are plaster, brick, stucco or limestone, especially in more informal homes.

Natural woods. Wood is a hallmark of Italian style. It’s traditionally dark, but in modern homes it may be lighter with a lot of detailing for character. In Tuscan-inspired homes, you’ll find natural wood beams and wood harvest tables. In larger, formal homes you’ll see glossy, ornate furnishings,often in walnut, chestnut and fir.

Massive furniture. Whether for the bedroom, living room or dining room, Italian-inspired design is solid and projects a feeling of abundance. Even modern Italian pieces are wonderfully generous and welcoming.

Masonry. Italian homes, whether simple or grand, almost always use masonry – on walls, floors, countertops and wherever! Marble is a classic option and looks spectacular on countertops and washroom and foyer floors. Stone is much more rugged; it looks perfect in a more rustic space but also in juxtaposition to traditional elegance. Terra cotta tiles are another timeless choice, especially for kitchens.

Renaissance-inspired. Grander Italian homes have a Renaissance quality. Cathedral ceilings are often custom painted with murals, lavish art adorns the walls, large sculptures grace the hallway and multi-tiered chandeliers welcome guests in the foyer. Tuscan countryside homes are much less opulent, yet still there an air of quality.

Display joy! The Italian love of life is reflected in home décor. Never minimalist, spaces are always filled with objects and accessories that celebrate family and friends. Display ceramic dishware, wines, artwork and bowls of fresh fruit, for example.

Intricate details. Elaborately carved wood on legs, arms and even chair backs is common on Italian furniture, as is gilding, antiquing and ornate decoration. Of course, contemporary pieces may be much more understated, but always there is a feeling of quality and handcrafted elegance.

Metals. Whether metal edging on wood furniture, a bronze sculpture, copper pots hanging in the kitchen, large brass candlesticks or a wrought iron gate, metals and metallic finishes are a staple in homes with Italian décor. Generally, warmer metals suit Italian colour schemes, so opt for gold, brass, bronze and copper – and mix them up!

Simple linens. With so much sensory input in furnishings, walls, accessories and flooring, Italian homes often look best with simple linens – try crisp white, cream or other neutrals for draperies and bed coverings. For simple homes, choose ‘fresh off the clothesline’ cottons; for more opulent homes, select gorgeous linens and silks.

Remember, at the core of Italian styling is a love of life. With that as your guiding mantra, you’re sure to create a space that’s ‘bellissimo’!