Mediterranean House: Definition, Characteristics, and Types

Dreaming of owning a home with the warm and cheerful atmosphere of a Mediterranean vacation? The classic and charming Mediterranean architectural style can now be yours. More than just aesthetics, Mediterranean houses offer functional and durable designs, making them ideal for the tropical climate in Indonesia.

To learn more about Mediterranean houses, check out this article! This article will discuss the history, characteristics, and types of Mediterranean houses.

What is a Mediterranean House?

A Mediterranean house is a type of house inspired by traditional architecture found in the Mediterranean region, which includes countries such as Italy, Spain, France, Greece, and surrounding countries. This architectural style is adapted to create comfortable homes in the warm Mediterranean climate. These houses often have red tiled roofs, large terraces, large windows, and lush gardens.

History of Mediterranean Houses

The Mediterranean architectural style first emerged during the ancient Roman Empire. The classical buildings in Athens, Rome, and Pompeii provided inspiration for the Mediterranean architectural style.

During the Moorish colonization of Spain from the 8th to the 15th centuries, many Islamic architectural elements were introduced to the Mediterranean region. Moorish houses tended to have open courtyards, lush gardens, and intricate geometric decorations.

In the Middle Ages, the Mediterranean architectural style continued to develop with the cultural exchange between Mediterranean nations and surrounding countries. In Italy, magnificent villas with elegant designs and swimming pools began to appear. In Spain, rural houses with terraces and large courtyards became popular.

Then, in the 20th century, the Mediterranean architectural style became increasingly popular outside the Mediterranean region, particularly in the United States. Designers and architects began to adapt the distinctive Mediterranean elements into homes in areas with similar or even different climates. This resulted in a wider variation in Mediterranean house designs and types.

Distinctive Characteristics of Mediterranean Houses

Red Tiled Roof

One of the main hallmarks of a Mediterranean house is its red tiled roof design. The warm red color adds an attractive aesthetic touch and blends beautifully with the rich colors and textures of the Mediterranean landscape. Red tiled roofs also give the house a classic and elegant look.

Thick Walls

Mediterranean houses often have thick walls, which provide good thermal insulation. Thick walls also create a sense of security and tranquility inside the house, as well as keeping the temperature inside the house comfortable.

Use of Natural Materials

Mediterranean style houses tend to use natural materials such as stone, wood, and terracotta. This gives the house a warm and natural feel, as well as creating a comfortable and peaceful atmosphere.

Large Terraces or Verandas

Large terraces or verandas overlooking the garden or natural scenery are an important feature of Mediterranean houses. These terraces provide additional space for relaxing or entertaining guests, as well as enhancing the connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.

Types of Mediterranean Houses

The Mediterranean architectural style of houses in Europe is heavily influenced by the cultures of the countries on that continent. This has resulted in Mediterranean houses having different characteristics. The following are the types of Mediterranean style houses:

Italian Mediterranean House Type

Mediterranean houses in Italy often display a distinctive style, with the use of earthy colors that reflect the natural feel and warmth. Colors like earth brown, cream, and terracotta dominate the color palette of Mediterranean houses in Italy, giving a harmonious impression with the surrounding environment.

In addition, the use of wooden materials is also often found in Mediterranean houses in Italy. Wood is used both as a structural and decorative material, giving a natural and warm appearance to these houses.

Greek Mediterranean House Type

Greek Mediterranean houses have a simpler and more minimalist design, compared to houses in other Mediterranean countries. The furnishing style inside Mediterranean houses in Greece often adopts a more modern style that is cleaner and simpler. Modern furniture with clean lines and simple shapes are often chosen to create an elegant but not excessive look.

Spanish Mediterranean House Type

Spanish-style Mediterranean houses are known for their bright and vibrant colors, reflecting their spirit and cheerfulness. These bright colors also help Spanish houses stand out amidst the rich and beautiful natural scenery. In addition, Spanish-style Mediterranean houses often give a more lively impression.

Use of Granite in Mediterranean Style Houses

With its high resistance to stress and weather, granite is an ideal choice for floors, walls, and decorative elements in Mediterranean homes. Granite's resistance to scratches, stains, and heat makes it suitable for use in environments that are often exposed to extreme weather conditions, such as the warm and windy Mediterranean region. In addition, granite is also easy to clean and maintain, making it a practical choice for homes with an active lifestyle.

With their unique beauty and allure, Mediterranean homes continue to captivate homeowners around the globe. From the vibrant styles of Spain to the serene simplicity of Greece, each Mediterranean house type exudes its own charm. Mediterranean homes embody a lifestyle that embraces comfort and harmony with nature. Blending aesthetics and functionality, Mediterranean homes make an ideal choice for those seeking a dream home brimming with warmth and character.