Country Homes – Style Elements of a Spanish Country Home

http://ift.tt/1lZ1SCv

Country Homes

Spanish country homes have a wonderful air of old-world familiarity – stucco exteriors, arches and curves, wrought-iron elements and wooden beams. They are one of the few architectural styles to also feature beautiful balconies, patios and courtyards in their country home design. Usually having an asymmetrical, open one-storey floor plan and arcaded pathways, Spanish homes are heavy on drama. Summarized below are some elements of a Spanish country home –

Using wrought-iron

A prominent feature in Spanish country home architecture is the use of wrought-iron throughout the house. Originally used to protect homes from invaders, it gained popularity as a decorative material. Right from decorative stair railings and wall sconces to oversized entryway chandeliers to balcony loft railings, wrought-iron detailing adds luxurious elegance to the room.

Stucco exteriors and terracotta roof tiles

Curved red clay tiles are used for the roof to give the home a rustic, earthy and warm look. Multi-level rooflines add further symmetry and interest. The exteriors are usually made of roughly-textured stucco (a mix of lime/sand, water and cement) painted in white with heavy wood trim. Stucco is even found in fireplaces and kitchens.

Curves and arches

Arches and curves in Spanish country homes add immense grace to them. Beautiful archways, curved steps and staircases, curved alcoves, arched niches, and wooden, iron, or stained glass arched windows give a rustic look to the house.

Tiles

Hand-painted tiles are common popular features in a Spanish country home. Also, traditional Spanish Talavera tiles (tin-glazed pottery) are used within the homes, in spaces such as bathrooms and patios to create an eye-pleasing space. Even the Saltillo tiles, which are environment-friendly, warm terra-cotta tiles, are used.

Courtyards, patios and arcades

Arcades, patios and courtyards, are atypical elements of Spanish homes due to the concept of outdoor living. Arcades, which are a series of arches supported by columns, and patios have fireplaces allows people to linger outside late into the night.

Divided doors

Divided doors, made of sabino wood, are popular because they not only keep farm animals out but also allow for excellent ventilation.

Wooden ceiling beams

Also known as “vigas”, Spanish homes prominently feature wooden support beams in ceilings, which are placed perpendicular to slender strips of wood called “latillas”. Wooden beams are also used in fireplace mantels.

Accessories

Right from antique Spanish pottery, colourful paintings, and a traditional huipil (traditional Spanish garment) on furniture to oversized mirrors, crafted wrought-iron lanterns and dark-wood toned furniture, Spanish country homes are all about infusing life into the space using lots of colours. Red and gold fabrics on the furniture are also inspired by the Spanish Baroque style. Some homes even feature the banco in their entryways, which is essentially a built-in, plastered bench providing comfortable seating near the fireplace. Even the traditional entryway (zaguan) features traditional Spanish rugs and artwork to bring a whimsical look to the place.

Balconies and chimneys

Balconies designed to enjoy the views and the fresh air and tower-like chimneys with little windows are atypical of a Spanish country home.

That perfect beach house is waiting for you at Panorama Hills

The post Country Homes – Style Elements of a Spanish Country Home appeared first on Visakhapatnam, Vizag | Apartments, Flats, Homes, Houses, Plots, Property, Properties, Real Estate, Villas | for Sale | Shriram Panorama Hills.

by Balaji R via Visakhapatnam, Vizag | Apartments, Flats, Homes, Houses, Plots, Property, Properties, Real Estate, Villas | for Sale | Shriram Panorama Hills