After a few days in the sun on the Amalfi Coast, I came home with more than just a tan and a phone full of beautiful postcard pictures – I brought back a new perspective on decorating.
Italian interior design style has always been about living boldly, happily, and life is Beautiful. It’s maximalism done right. And as a middle-aged man, my Euro summer was just the right amount of vacay inspo I needed.
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(Image credit: Colors of Barley)
What really impressed me was how Italians embrace color and pattern with confidence.
From statement ceilings to sun-drenched palettes, here are four lessons I took from the Amalfi Coast — and how I’m bringing that Italian magic home.
1. Red and yellow
Beach houses on Peter’s Beach, Positano, Italy
(Image credit: Charlotte Olby)
If you had asked me on the first go if I would not accept a red and yellow color combination, I probably would have said no. The fear of my living room ending up looking like a fast food chain was very real.
But on the Amalfi Coast, I saw these two colors used in a way that completely changed my perspective on mixing. From faded crimson rugs against lemon-colored walls to patterned floor tiles that blend shades of terracotta and rich cream, this unexpected color combination feels sun-drenched, happy and grounded rather than kitsch.
Personally, I think the key to making it work at home is small and important: quiet tones. Think butter yellow mixed with burgundy, or a simple yellow kitchen with a few red appliances.
2. A painted ceiling
Hotel room in Marina Piccola 73 in Positano, Italy
(Image credit: Charlotte Olby)
“Look up!” it was one of our most used expressions in Italy, from frescoes to beautiful buildings and, most amazingly, ceilings painted with words.
From hotels to restaurants, painted ceilings were ubiquitous in shades of blue, yellow, or gray that brought unexpected drama and depth to even the smallest of rooms. And it made me rethink my approach to the ‘fifth wall’.
When I got home, I couldn’t stop thinking about the ceiling in my dining room – a stark white space that suddenly felt like I’d run out of opportunities to make a statement. I went in with a muted buttery yellow that picks up the tones from the rug and table decor, and instantly the whole room feels more thoughtful.
3. Stripes, stripes and more stripes
View of Bagni Internazionali beach in Capri, Italy
(Image credit: Charlotte Olby)
If the Amalfi Coast had a uniform, it would be stripes. From sun-bleached umbrellas on the beach to colorful cushions in cliff-side cafes, decorating with lines was everywhere and somehow never felt out of place.
But even though we were close to the sea, the lines of Amalfi were just natural. With bright and vibrant colors of red, green, blue and yellow, these colors were inconsistent with the palette and size, and are a perfect example of how to wear lines.
Seeing them used freely made me realize how flexible the lines are. You can start small by laying out striped tablecloths, or by adding some stripes to patterned curtains or upholstery. It’s the same thing about stripes, too; they play nicely with other patterns and interior design styles, meaning you can dip your toe while keeping everything cohesive.
Shop the Amalfi Coast look
Bistro Stripe Patio Umbrella by Business & Pleasure Co.
The first thing I knew I wanted to order when I got home was a colorful umbrella, and Business & Pleasure Co. it does the best. I love this green and pink color, but there are many more to choose from.
Yellow Lemon Stoneware Vase
Of course, I couldn’t include something decorated with lemon like this large stone vase from H&M. It’s a nod to the Amalfi coast without being in your face, and it’s easily avoidable come winter.
Red can be a bold statement in any space, so for a little immersion in the tomato red color, I want to present pieces like this fun table made of three sides for a playful look.
Vietnamese Dinner Plate Campaign
The shops on my travels were all packed with beautiful hand-painted ceramics like this delicious fish plate. Crafted in style on the Amalfi Coast by Vietri, Anthropologie brings the feel of Italy right to your doorstep with this piece.
Assouline Amalfi Coast Coffee Table Book
I am a huge collector of coffee table books, but missing from my collection is Assouline’s Amalfi Coast title. This 260-page book is full of beautiful pictures from the Mediterranean, think beaches, architecture, and lots of limoncello.
La DoubleJ Placemats Group 2
Start your summer table decoration ideas with stripes, like the Italians. Created in collaboration between Italian brands La DoubleJ and Mascioni, this 100% linen rug features a stunning combination of deep reds and soft blues.
My trip to the Amalfi Coast left me with more memories and a full stomach; it has completely changed the way I think about decorating. Whether it’s red and yellow, colorful fabric, or something unexpected like a painted ceiling, every design choice feels personal, more playful – like a small souvenir from the places that inspired it.
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