How To Create A Riviera Interior

There are few places more steeped in glamour and riches than the coastal resorts of the French Riviera. From St Tropez to Monaco the fabulous coastlines of the Cote D'Azur provide the perfect inspiration for a stylish interior design. Popular with the rich and famous this area has given birth to the most elegant and stunning interiors from quaint Mediterranean styles to grand and palatial settings.

Riviera interiors are a showcase of sun kissed colours such as cream, terracotta and coffee tones with a distinct Mediterranean influence in terms of style and colour. Natural neo-classical colour palettes with a hint of metallic gold tones are also a popular choice among the period properties in this area. Pastel tones create a reflection of the crystal blue waters of the beach fronts and harbours and the subtle painted exteriors of the buildings are brought internally in the decor of the home.

Riviera interiors can be split into 3 distinct styles that each have their own specific design and decor. Each style can be used individually or can be blended into hybrid interiors that adopt the best features of each specific style. Whether used separately or as a unique blend of styles, they all come together in creating a diverse and elegant coastal resort that oozes stylish elegance and sophistication.

Neo-Classical interiors

Neo-Classical interiors take influence from Italian interior design and showcase delicate pastel tones of pale grey and blue that provide a fabulous mirroring of the coastal surroundings. Classic artwork and period light fittings will create a period style ambiance within the chosen room and will perfectly compliment the warm yet subtle colours of the walls and flooring.

Furniture is classic and antique in nature and usually features dark ebony and mahogany with a splash of gilding or metallic handles. Sumptuous and lustrous seating areas are a must have feature and take their look from classic Louis XVI designs. This look provides a classic and refined interior look that is palatial in style and exquisitely flamboyant. You must be careful however not to overdo the 'bling' to ensure a more tasteful and less tacky approach.

Contemporary

Contemporary Riviera interiors can be seen as a complete polar opposite of the Neo-Classical interior style. Making the most of the stunning views and the coastal location, contemporary homes make use of open space and glass wherever possible and create a minimal interior that uses the outdoor vistas as the artwork for the home. Colours are almost always kept white as this perfectly compliments the wall to ceiling glass while furniture is simplistic in style with sleek lines and clean edges. Mirrored furniture, glass tables and low level seating are used as not to distract from the breathtaking views. Accessories are kept to a minimum with only a small selection of lamps or glass vases and ornaments in specific zoned areas of the home.

Mediterranean 

Mediterranean inspired interiors are far more natural in design and embrace the rustic and countrified charm of the outdoors. Colours are kept within a neutral palette with the use of earthen tones of brown and terracotta as a contrast to the crisp white walls, exposed stonework and basic tiled flooring.

Furniture is cosy and practical with statement items such as rustic dressers and large dining tables taking centre stage in the home. Accessories feature metal framed light fittings in classic and simple styles as well as rugged urns, vases and ornaments that create a warm and homely feel to the chosen interior space.

For more stunning Riviera inspired interior designs, take a look at our latest pinterest board - Pinterest - Riviera Interiors or for some classic Furniture items that will compliment this interior look then head over to the website and browse our extensive selection of stylish French Furniture.