Historical Overview:

The look and feel of a Tuscan style kitchen can be exuberant and extravagant. It should feel like you're in an Italian villa atop a hill in the Tuscan countryside. The major difference between the other European designs, English and French Country, is the extensive use of arched openings and details in heavily plastered, oversized rooms. Vibrantly painted tile murals and dark wood balanced with soft edged stone surfaces help further define this style.

Cabinetry/Millwork:

Heavy woods with strong grain work well in this setting. If you use painted finishes, they should be worn through and distressed. Because most Tuscan houses have open niches in plaster walls, a combination of plaster structures and cabinetry work well.

Hardware:

Italian environments support the use of metallic surfaces beyond hardware but in most cases, rustic metals and crackled finishes on porcelain are excellent selections.

Countertops:

Granite with an active pattern and other rustic patterned surfaces are appropriate. In areas where there is no water, wood surfaces can be used to accent other areas.

Colors:

Wrought iron and copper combined with olive green and terra cotta have a definite “Italian” feel to them as do un-washed warm colors in yellows, oranges and reds balanced by blues and greens.

Surfaces:

• Floors:
  While the room would benefit from an area rug, any rustic, hardy material such as tile, stone or wood, can be used.
• Walls:
  Avoid wood wainscoting but tile wainscoting or backsplashes are definitely appropriate. Also, walls with a textured and layered finish are typical.
• Ceilings:
  Cabinetry with open space above is an excellent choice. Keep the molding up around the ceiling. Beams work in any country environment, but a faux finish feeling is also appropriate in an Italian setting.

Accents:

Mixing furniture in the space to display Italian pottery is appropriate. Stucco, textured or plaster sections within the space combined with oversized windows add to the overall feel.