Tuscan Kitchen Decor - Better Homes and Gardens - BHG.com

Cabinets that appear to withstand time and still look beautiful and natural are a must for any Tuscan-inspired kitchen. For a gorgeous weathered-wood look, choose alder -- a species with the grain of burled wood and lots of earthy mottling. Subtle color shifts in the wood's hue almost anticipate the patina of time.

Floors made of various-size terra-cotta bricks, laid in different patterns, combat wear and tear and add the feel of sun-baked earth to contrast the woodwork. Use terra-cotta on the backsplash, too, for a focal point with always-been-there appeal.

This spacious Tuscan kitchen is a hot spot for entertaining, thanks to a 7x4-foot island. Plentiful countertop space provides room to spread out when cooking. Exposed ceiling beams, an antique pendant, and reclaimed French terra-cotta tiles lend the kitchen a graceful blush of age. Butter-color walls were inspired by a collection of mustard pots and oil jars. Accents of burnt umber, ocher, and green radiate a Tuscan vibe.

In this kitchen, an eclectic mix of finishes lends an aged look that exudes Tuscan charm. Perimeter cabinets wear a warm brown hue, while a darker shade sets off an island and built-in hutch; corner cabinets (not shown) are finished in a contrasting ivory color. Above the range, an impressive stone hood creates the look of a traditional hearth, and hand-painted tumbled marble tiles further the Tuscan elegance.

A combination of honed and polished granite adds texture to the countertops. A granite apron-front sink boldly imbues the traditional farmhouse design with a rustic character in keeping with the Tuscan look. Underfoot, a harlequin stone floor finishes the space and subtly unites the varied hues.

Tuscan kitchen decor encourages an exploration of the past. Here, a glazed finish on the island's cabinets makes it seem like an antique plucked from the countryside. The cabinets feature bold, heavy trim to give them a strength and weight reminiscent of old-world antiques. Details, such as terra-cotta rope tiles on the range hood and a distressed oak-top island, infuse the space with an appropriate Italian patina. Wood beams and a rustic metal chandelier crown the space with old-world charm.