The Spanish Revival style is synonymous with California, evoking images of terracotta roofs, white stucco walls, and wrought iron accents. You're considering remodeling your California home in this timeless aesthetic, here are some ideas to begin:
Not certain how long the black iron seams will stay in style but with dark wood cabinets looks great. Sandstone wall instead, creamy color.
A bench in the shower is a great idea as you age. The bench does not have to be permanent. The bench needs to be practical - place to set shampoo or sit in a steam shower. A teak bench can do this just as well and be replaced.
Cool stone sink with wood walls or tile to look like wood
Another black framed shower. A big thing to think about is the step up into the shower. Will your feet catch the ledge? OR is seamless on the metal squares more likely to leak? I like the pattern in this tile floor with old fashioned wood vanity. Even the colors of the metal in fixtures and lighting need to be planned to work together.
Spanish piece of wood furniture and make it custom. This looks bad and a bath needs storage.
Love this stone sink but again the plumbing showing fails.
Material
choices:
- Tiles: Saltillo
tiles (terracotta) are classic, but consider Mexican Talavera tiles
for vibrant patterns or encaustic cement tiles for geometric
designs. Glazed ceramic tiles in warm colors like
terracotta, ochre, creams and olive green are also popular. I
prefer more muted tones than the vibrant ones as they aren't as long
enjoyed. I am not fond of beige that seems to be ubiquitous in Orange
County and boring.
- Colors: Stick
to a warm and earthy palette inspired by the California
landscape. Think
terracotta, ochre, cream, sage green, and
whites. Accents of turquoise or cobalt blue can add cool
vibrancy.
- Bathrooms: Embrace
the Spanish aesthetic with Saltillo floor tiles, hand-painted
ceramic tiles on the walls, vanities with wrought iron
details, and brass fixtures. Open showers with terracotta or
stone accents can add a touch of luxury.
- Indoor-outdoor
flow: Blur the lines between inside and outside with large
patios, courtyards, and terraces. Use natural materials
like wood, stone, and wrought iron for furniture and
accessories. Lush colors, sunflowers, an avocado tree, climbing roses and
shaded spots to enjoy the garden. The back fence is rod iron, perhaps make
a central section glass to view the mountains and eucalyptus trees on the
horizon.
Think about this architectural concept of prospect and refuge theory as a way to shape your home environment.
Evolution programmed humans to desire environments where one can see ~~ but not be seen (refuge). Inherently, we seek out and are soothed subconsciously by spaces that offer a view, or Prospect, but impart a sense of protection, or Refuge
To savor danger from a haven of safety.
When we pause at protected overlook on a hike; we feel both these: prospect (view) and refuge (safe). The sensation is a sense of openness coupled with excitement but to keep it your own.
Think view, light, open with your back protected and private. So skylight, windows to the views and air but with ability to shudder.
- Tiles: Saltillo
tiles (terracotta) are classic, but consider Mexican Talavera tiles
for vibrant patterns or encaustic cement tiles for geometric
designs. Glazed ceramic tiles in warm colors like
terracotta, ochre, creams and olive green are also popular. I
prefer more muted tones than the vibrant ones as they aren't as long
enjoyed. I am not fond of beige that seems to be ubiquitous in Orange
County and boring.
Modern Spanish tile bath with tonal range very calm
Though I think subway tiles are out the paver or Saltillo tiles are gorgeous and fit for a Spanish style home. EASY to care for- damp mop or vacuum the dog hair. Every two years you can seal them. Low cost for big architectural and beauty bang. I also think the dual sinks are not necessary or functional. Install one pretty sink with an amazing mirror and have storage.
