Mary Freeland | April 8, 2010
Today our Tuscan culinary travels brings us outdoors as well. Fresh spring zucchini and eggplant languidly wrap themselves around turkey and marry the flavors of the season as they grill to perfection.
Mary Freeland | March 6, 2010
When you’re imagining the perfect Tuscan landscape, what color stands out the most? In many cases, it’s the rusty hues of the terra-cotta colored soil of the fields. The same goes for most Tuscan living rooms—the color that jumps out in small bursts is the rich red of painted pottery, wall art details, and more.
Mary Freeland | March 3, 2010
Let’s take a trip to Tuscany’s famous hill top city of Montalcino. This vibrant village is rich in history, color and traditions that evoke the very spirit of Tuscany.
Mary Freeland | February 26, 2010
When you think of the Tuscan countryside, what colors do you imagine? Is it the deep green of tall cypress trees? Or do you think of the yellowy green of juicy olives? What about the creamy whites, golds, and ambers of limestone, marble, and travertine?
Mary Freeland | February 24, 2010
This week’s cooking lesson does not find it’s origins in Tuscany. It is actually the original San Francisco treat. Italian immigrants to the bay area developed this hearty dish while at sea. The word ciuppin, often used in the port city of Genoa Italy, translates as “chopped” which is the method used to incorporate the bounty of the sea found in this meal.
Mary Freeland | February 21, 2010
Simply filling your home to overflowing with Mediterranean-inspired materials, art, and motifs won’t bring your home that warm and inviting Tuscan feel. Balance is the key in any decor style!
Mary Freeland | February 5, 2010
Tucked between the Mediterranean Sea and the Apennines Mountains of central Italy, Tuscany is a region balanced between craggy mountains and tranquil sea. With this stunning contrast between land and water, it’s no wonder that Tuscans turned to the great outdoors for inspiration when it came to decorating the indoors!
Mary Freeland | November 14, 2009
A common complaint from husbands is that their wives’ decorating taste is too “girly” or “frilly.” Flowers, ruffles, and elaborate Victorian furniture can be off-putting to the men in your family. Of course, if most guys had their way, our living rooms would be full of hunting trophies and sports paraphernalia…
Mary Freeland | November 5, 2009
One of the hallmarks of Tuscan design is simplicity: unadorned natural materials, uncomplicated color palettes, and straightforward lines. It also means no clutter, mess, or disorder. By not overdoing it, Tuscan décor provides the inspiration for a comfortable, serene home.
Mary Freeland | October 23, 2009
Tuscan design is all about creating unity between the natural world and the interior of your home, about knocking down the walls that separate us from the beauty of the outdoors… Of course, you could literally demolish your walls, but a simpler—and certainly warmer during the winter months—solution is to use natural elements and scenery in your decorating scheme.
