Are you considering remodeling your Orange County, California, home with a modern twist on Spanish interior design? If so, you're in the right place. Inspired by the missions of early Spanish settlers, Spanish Revival style architecture has been a part of California for hundreds of years. This timeless style not only pays homage to the state's historical roots but also brings a touch of classic elegance to Southern California homes. In the modern age, a revitalized interest in Spanish interior design has made it a trending choice for homeowners looking to blend the best of both worlds: contemporary aesthetics and a deep respect for the enduring classic style that remains prevalent in the region. In this blog, we'll guide you through the key elements and steps to remodel your Orange County home in the modern Spanish style.

1. Color Palette

Modern Spanish interior design is all about warm and earthy tones, making it a perfect choice for the sunny climate of Orange County. Start by choosing a color palette that reflects the Mediterranean landscape. Opt for shades of terracotta, deep blues, olive greens, and warm neutrals. These colors create a cozy and inviting atmosphere that is characteristic of Spanish homes. To modernize the look, pair those colors with a heavy dose of white to give it a fresh appeal.

Photography: Nayan Soni; Source: Architectural Digest

2. Rustic Elements

Spanish design often incorporates rustic elements to bring in a sense of history and authenticity. Exposed wooden ceiling beams that support the architecture also offer a decorative element characteristic of the Spanish interior design style. Other rustic elements to consider are vintage spanish doors, wood windows, reclaimed wood furniture, and terracotta tile flooring. These elements not only add texture and depth, but will and warmth to your Orange County space.

Photography: Ryan Garvin; Source: Intimate Living Interiors

3. Tilework

Spanish tiles, especially decorative ceramic, terracotta, or porcelain tiles, are a hallmark of Spanish interior design style. Whether incorporated subtly in stair risers, as a backsplash to provide a bold pop of color in your kitchen or bathroom, or if you’re tiling an entire floor, tiles made of traditional patterns like arabesque or quatrefoil can make a striking statement in your Orange County home.

4. Archways and Niche Spaces

Arched doorways and niche spaces are common architectural features in Spanish homes. Quite often, Orange County homes already showcase these architectural elements, so if you're remodeling, keep them! For a more modern look, consider updating the arches with a more smooth round or oval shape if the arches are originally segmented. If your home doesn’t have existing arches, consider incorporating arched doorways to add character, elegance, and a sense of flow between rooms, or, if possible, add a domed ceiling to make the space feel wide open and airy and create a sense of grandeur.

Photography: @discinteriors; Source: The Spruce

5. Wrought Iron Accents

Spanish interior design style is characterized by a few key elements, wrought iron accents being one of them. Black wrought iron railings are commonly found in Spanish style home designs. A wrought iron railing on your staircase is also a modern way to make a vast impression. You can also use wrought iron in your lighting fixtures and decorative pieces. Simplifying a more intricate iron pattern while maintaining some details is a timeless way to add a touch of sophistication to your modern Spanish style interior design. In fact, wrought iron is a classic design feature has the ability to effortlessly blend in with other decor elements making it a versatile choice that adapts to changing design trends.

Photography: Deborah Shields; Source: Redfin

6. Textiles and Fabrics

Rich fabrics are a traditional part of Spanish interiors. Incorporating textiles and fabrics with a Spanish flair to traditional modern homes helps create a cozy and inviting ambiance. Consider adding vintage embroidered throw pillows to your living room sofas, chairs and other accent pieces, as well as bedroom furniture. Another way to add flair to your modern Spanish interior design style is to use colorful area rugs or rich drapery on iron rods throughout your home. These textiles can infuse vibrancy and personality into your Orange County space.

7. Spanish-Inspired Furniture

When it comes to choosing your home furniture, look for modernized pieces with a traditional Spanish influence. Dark wood furniture with ornate carvings, black metal details, or distressed finishes work well. Don't forget to add comfortable seating options like leather sofas and armchairs. Keep in mind, it doesn’t have to feel like the heavy, chunky furniture that was popular decades ago. Instead, you could opt for more delicate pieces in the same materials for an updated design.

Photography: Roehner + Ryan; Source: Luxe Interiors + Design

8. Decorative Accents

Spain has a long history of pottery making so it’s no surprise that many Spanish style homes have lots of beautiful pottery pieces in earthy colors and neutral tones. Strategic placement of colorful pottery and ceramic vases throughout your home and garden can make a bold statement. Other decorative accents such as wrought iron candle holders, decorative mirrors, and Spanish-inspired art can help tie the Spanish theme together. These small details can add the needed touch to your modern Spanish interior design style.

9. Lighting

Spanish homes often feature decorative ambient lighting. Chandeliers with wrought iron or Moorish-inspired designs are excellent choices. Use warm, soft lighting to create a cozy and inviting atmosphere in your Orange County home. Consider updating your recessed can lighting to smaller flush trim-less recessed lights that disappear into the ceiling for a luxury modern detail that allows your beautiful decorative light fixture to take center stage.

10. Greenery

Spanish homes are recognized for beautiful courtyards with lush greenery, so incorporating plants can easily bring a little Spanish charm and warmth to your space. Adding greenery with potted plants and indoor gardens to evoke that feeling of an outdoor oasis reminiscent of the beautiful Orange County landscape right outside your doors. The Fiddle Leaf Fig, Snake Plant (Sansevieria), Bird of Paradise, Philodendron, Monstera Deliciosa, and Pothos are all plants that thrive in indoor conditions but also contribute to the Mediterranean aesthetic.

Spanish-style interior design is one of the most popular styles of home décor today. Its simple, sophisticated appeal has made it a favorite among homeowners who want to bring an elegant, timeless touch to their living space. Remodeling your home in the modern Spanish interior design style can bring that beautiful Mediterranean charm and elegance all the way to your Orange County home. Embrace the warmth and character of Spanish design, and you'll have a space that's both stylish and comfortable for years to come. With the right colors, rustic elements, decorative tiles, and carefully selected furnishings and accents, you can create a beautiful and inviting Orange County oasis.

Need help? Viève Interiors is a full service interior design studio serving luxury residential and select commercial clients in Southern California and as far as Las Vegas, NV. With an attention to detail and an unparalleled technical edge we embrace functionality and personal expression of style, designing environments that are cohesive, polished, and tailored to each client. Contact us today to book your discovery call.