Italy is a country rich in many things because of its storied past and its evolution. Whether you talk about Italian food, fashion, architecture or design, a common theme emerges: Italians love to make a statement, reflective of their zest for life as seen in the flavours of their food, the adventurous brazenness of their fashion, and the opulence of their homes. This desire to stand out has resulted in two main schools of design: the Old World classic Italian style which is ornate, sumptuous and glitzy; and modern Italian, the hallmarks of which are classic influences, restrained elegance, and refined statement pieces.

The Italian Modern style revolves around multiple design themes. The basic premise works to make a home look modern, open and spacious while retaining the essence of the Italian design philosophy. It is important to note that the Italian aesthetic in general invests very heavily in quality as opposed to quantity: think rich brown leather couches on excellent quality marble flooring.

A natural expert on the subject, Barbara Pizzi, Owner of Studio Di Architettura & Design weighs in. She says, "Italian interior designers specialise in creating wonderful interior spaces that evoke strong, positive emotions, and which immediately communicate the values and the tastes of their occupants. They are keen to consider the tiniest details of every space they work in, which allows them to offer an exclusive and absolutely innovative end product."

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"Constant innovation, uncompromising quality and continuous research for new forms and materials are the elements that we consider the foundation of timeless elegance. Decorating your home in the Italian modern style means that it will be perennially in style and will also give you the freedom to add elements as you go along without feeling like you are taking away from the aesthetic" says Pizzi.



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Classic elements of Ancient Roman architecture feature regularly in modern Italian design. However, where they would be heavily moulded in the classical Old World style, modern Italian favours cleaner and leaner silhouettes. This is particularly great for when you have structural beams and need to incorporate them into the flow of your home.



Another element of Italian modern design is the heavy involvement of marble, tile or stone - all three are characteristic materials of Italian design, inspired from the earthy elements of Italy’s rich historical heritage. An affinity for decorative flooring originated during the Ancient Roman civilisation, where the use of terracotta and stone tiles was widely favoured; to the Middle Ages where the papacies would command intricate designs for church floorings. Today, Italian homes use the floor to continue the narrative of design and taste as seen in the rest of their homes. Technological improvements in the design of ceramic tiles have also made these popular in modern Italian homes. While marble is a classic fan favourite, adding a sense of luxury to any home, for the more rustically inclined, terracotta or stone flooring is a great option.

Italian modern is a great aesthetic to follow especially because its themes are so relevant to modern homes. Spaces are opened up with mirrors, and there is a strong emphasis on large, open windows. The floors are not just an afterthought; rather, they occupy a central role since they add to the continuity of the decorative elements within the room. Add in accessories made of crystal and glass and with gilded detailing, for a quiet, tasteful air of richness. Decorating your home in the Italian modern style means that it will be perennially in style and will also give you the freedom to add elements as you go along without feeling like you are taking away from the aesthetic.