The internet is full of typical Spanish-style homes, but not every design suits every taste. In general, Spanish homes are considered minimalist, with only one or two storeys, stucco walls, terracotta roofs, and a bit of colour here and there. They have indoor and outdoor spaces seamlessly blended, with a pool and seating area.
Today, most homes have an authentic Spanish touch, such as long ceilings, all-white adobe walls, consistent, even arch doorways, and more. Some people add a touch of modern aesthetics to fit your taste. It is important to carefully consider elements to ensure the home looks and feels Spanish.
This blog explores a few intriguing ideas for Spanish-style homes that'll inspire you.
What is a Spanish-Style Home?
Spanish-style homes are known for their uniformity, minimal embellishment, and smooth stucco exteriors. These homes usually have stone or tile (mostly terracotta) shaped like barrels on the roof.
Other common elements include arched doors and windows, as well as heavy wooden doors with beautiful carvings and metalwork. These home styles may also include interior courtyard, water features, niches, wrought iron, exposed beams, and tiles, stone, or cobbled flooring.
Spanish-style homes originated in the 16th century, when Spain colonised America. Since then, the style has become more prevalent, especially in areas with similar climates, such as Spain and Arizona, Texas, Nevada, California, and modern-day Florida.
What are the Benefits of Spanish-Style Homes?
Here are three major benefits of Spanish-style homes -
They Are Versatile
Spanish-style homes are quite versatile. You can opt for a one-storey design with minimal embellishments, or a two-storey design with a beautiful tile accent in various colour combinations. You can also add water features, such as pools, and add a lush green grass boundary.
You Can Enjoy a Beautiful Outdoor
As a Spanish-style home features an interior courtyard, you can use the space for recreational activities or spend time in nature without even leaving the home. You can also further decorate the courtyard with fountains, gardens, furniture, etc.
They Are Practical Choices
The exterior of the Spanish home withstands weather elements, reducing the need for regular maintenance or repairs. The tiles and terracottas used are long-lasting materials, and with just a few cleanups, they are ready to shine again. Though it originated in the 16th century, this home style is still many people's favourite.
What Are the Different Types of Spanish Homes?
Spanish homes are also known as Spanish Colonial Revival, Mission Revival, and more. Here are some common types of Spanish homes that can be found in the USA -
Spanish Colonial Revival
These homes became popular in the early 20th century and are inspired by Spanish Colonial architecture, which originated in Spain in the 1500s.
Mission Revival
Mission revival is a 19th-century style home that you usually find in California and the Southwest. These home styles include features such as arched entryways, stucco walls, bell towers, and tiled roofs.
Pueblo Revival
Also known as Santa Fe Style, Pueblo Revival is a 20th-century interpretation of traditional 18th- and 19th-century adobe homes, recreating their soft, rounded forms with contemporary materials, such as brick and concrete.
Spanish Eclectic
Spanish Eclectic is a broad design term for homes that blend different Spanish architectural elements into a contemporary mix. Thus, making it a versatile style that is popular today in the USA.
12 Ideas for Spanish Style Homes
Here are 12 beautiful yet practical ideas you can incorporate when renovating your home into a Spanish-style home -
Opt for Huge Ceilings
Spanish-style homes feature high ceilings, which can be further embellished for a more polished Spanish look. However, it is advised not to DIY the designs, as the results may not be what you want. Also, working with a ceiling alone is a huge risk.
Arched Doorways
If you have one arched doorway, make sure the design is repeated evenly throughout the home. It is because having only a single arched door can make it feel out of place and won't resemble a Spanish-style home.
Incorporate White Mindfully
That's the easiest way to make your home look Spanish. To achieve the right and desired look, you have to use white mindfully and properly. To avoid the entire house from being white-blinded, you can add dark-coloured furniture and accents, like low lights. You can incorporate different shades of white and more light (especially natural light) to make the room feel airier and brighter.
Add Tiles
You can incorporate tiles into the kitchen, bathroom, and also the exterior of the home. Incorporating tiles can be quite difficult, but most designers say it is one of the must-haves for making the home look Spanish.
Use Correct Fireplace Style
No matter whether you choose a Spanish Revival, Spanish Colonial, or Spanish Hacienda Style, the right fireplace style can beautify the interior in every way. You can choose a plain or curved white-plastered fireplace, or one with a terracotta finish around the fireplace to enhance the setting.
Incorporate Artwork
When choosing an artwork, decide on the type of art you want to install early. It is because the artwork you choose has a huge impact on the home's style, and not every artwork goes with every setting. You can opt for simple artwork that complements the space's minimalism. Also, if you want a vibrant one, that is best, but ensure it does not look out of place.
Adaptable Exterior Designs
For this, you don't have to build an exterior from scratch. You can use the existing model to keep things modern and Spanish. You can add white stucco and highlight it with terracotta or patterned tiles around the window frames. Do the same on stair risers and the walkways to bring the Spanish flair to any exterior.
Add Colour to the Home
Experts suggest adding a colourful touch to a home when designing for a Spanish look. Though it was suggested to use whites (mostly), adding colours such as terracotta, blue, yellow, black, and green will give a timeless aesthetic.
Blend Indoors and Outdoors
Spanish-style homes usually encourage maximum relaxation, and blending indoor and outdoor spaces can make the structure feel more laid-back and create a vacation vibe. The right decor, such as soft lighting and neutral colours, can create a warm, calming setting.
Iron Accents
Iron accents are common in Spanish-style homes and are mostly used for gates, stair railings, or exterior light fixtures. Experts also say that using Juliet balconies or wrought-iron handrails can create a vibe reminiscent of old Spanish homes. You can paint the iron fixtures and furniture to add a modern touch.
Lush Landscaping
Spanish homes are all about beautiful landscapes and exquisite outdoor spaces. Surround your home with lush, green, and thick grasses, which makes the home feel like paradise.
Mediterranean-Style Pool
Build a Mediterranean-style pool that blends seamlessly with the home's architecture. Incorporate lush lawn and landscaping around the pool to complete the whole setting.
Should You Use White Wood or Natural Wood for Spanish Style Homes?
White wood is the ultimate choice for a Spanish-style home, but adding natural wood adds a touch of warmth. Your home doesn't have to be plastered; adobe-feel walls look more authentic and fit the Spanish-hacienda style. But some experts suggest, "Never try making your home something it is not!"
However, when choosing natural wood, the interior doesn't have to be dark. Instead, you can opt for lighter stains that tie the whole room together.
