Guest Picks: 20 Simple Ways to Create a Tuscan Kitchen
Take inspiration from 'Under the Tuscan Sun' for kitchen accents that celebrate 'la vita bella'
I first read Under the Tuscan Sun by Frances Mayes about 10 years ago (before the movie came out). I was enamored by her memoir about buying and renovating an old historic villa in the Tuscan countryside, but even more so by the recipes she peppered throughout the pages for her simple, seasonal creations. Finishing the book marked one of a few clear moments in my past that encouraged me to start cooking more, and then finally to create a blog about it.
I've never been to Europe, and Italy is definitely on my bucket list. As a foodie, how could it not be? Until that day, I've put together a set of ideas to help me create the feel of Tuscany in my own Maryland kitchen. It's definitely not a replacement for the Italian countryside, but it still feels good. Buon appetito! — Liza from (a)Musing Foodie
I've never been to Europe, and Italy is definitely on my bucket list. As a foodie, how could it not be? Until that day, I've put together a set of ideas to help me create the feel of Tuscany in my own Maryland kitchen. It's definitely not a replacement for the Italian countryside, but it still feels good. Buon appetito! — Liza from (a)Musing Foodie
Photos & Products
Under the Tuscan Sun: At Home In Italy - $12.99
I mean, can you imagine living here? I loved this book, especially the inspirations for Tuscan style and food.
Cimarron Walnut & Iron Dining Collection - $599
If you have a larger budget, this wood and iron dining set exudes the feeling of Tuscany. It's light and airy, yet substantial and beautiful.
Sienna 5-peice Pasta Set - $42.99
Pasta, pasta, pasta! This Tuscan-inspired pasta set will definitely catch your guests' attention.
Hampton Bay Tuscan Stone Bronze Click-lock Laminate Flooring - $2.77
New flooring is a fairly inexpensive way to bring the feel of Tuscany to your kitchen. Plus, the installation of this laminate is made to be a breeze.
Vertical Grow Frame with Grow Bag - $59.95
This vertical grow frame may not belong in your kitchen, but it would be the perfect way to grow produce in a small space just outside your kitchen. It's pretty, too!
Ashburn Vanity, Mahogany and Vanity Top with Stone Effects, Tuscan Sun - $599
Sure, this vanity is intended for a bathroom, but I think it would look exquisite in a kitchen. Perhaps place a large pot of ivy (or a similar looking plant) in the space for a sink and use the rest as a bar.
Free-standing Vertical Garden - $399.95
Live plants, specifically edible ones, really give off the air of Tuscany. I love the look and practicality of this free-standing vertical garden.
Farmhouse Reclaimed Wood Wine Rack
Nothing screams Tuscany more than mixing iron and wood. I love this reclaimed piece that's been reworked into a wine holder.
Pfister Bixby Single-handle Pull-out Sprayer Kitchen Faucet, Tuscan Bronze - $138
Add a Tuscan bronze faucet to your kitchen.
Environmental Graphics Tuscan Villa Mural - $97.17
A decorative graphic mural can seem a little cheesy, but it fits right in with the Tuscan theme. This one has wine, grapes, rolling hills and even a villa in the distance. Beautiful!
Tuscan Hearth Grill - $119
A Tuscan-style hearth grill is perfect for roasting vegetables, meats — or anything, really.
Tuscany 20-Piece Flatware Set
How about some clean-lined silverware to enhance the Tuscan feel?
Herbs of Tuscany Seed Kit - $24.95
This Herbs of Tuscany planter gives you an easy way to get a little herb garden started right on your windowsill.
Tuscan Village Painting - $799
This serene, soothing and beautiful Tuscan villa painting would be perfect on a large blank wall.
Bistro Tray - $151.80
The old-world, worn look of this bistro tray is the perfect Tuscan accent for a side table or dining room table. It's also great for serving drinks on the patio.
Cottage Vanity, Antique White and Vanity Top with Stone Effects, Tuscan Sun - $355
I love the idea of using this vanity as a buffet or bar in the kitchen. Use the hole in the center for holding an ice bucket during parties and a plant the rest of the time.
Morgan Tall Shelf, Tuscan Brown - $279.95
This bookshelf in Tuscan brown would work great for cookbooks and plants, as well as spices and other containers for dry goods.
Antique Tuscan Tile Sconces - $109
Lend some Tuscan ambience to your eat-in kitchen or dining room with these sconces made from antique tiles.
'Villa Park II' - $89.99
The color palette in this canvas just feels like Tuscany: calming and relaxing.
Next: Bring a Taste of Italy Home With 12 Design Touches
Next: Bring a Taste of Italy Home With 12 Design Touches