A Spanish style kitchen is a type of kitchen design that is defined by its rustic, old-world charm. These kitchens are inspired by the rich traditions and culinary culture of Spanish culture, which emphasizes the use of warm colors, decorative tiles, wrought iron accents, and natural elements.
These kitchens often feel spacious and incorporate a variety of materials including wood, tile, and metal. Countertops are often curved or arched to provide an aesthetically pleasing wave-like feel. A large kitchen island surrounded by comfortable seating may be featured.
Spanish style kitchens often incorporate a breakfast nook or other type of eating area in addition to its full sized dining table. Specialty finishes like silver, chalk white, terracotta, and deep red can be used to evoke a particular mood in the space.
The combination of colors and textures make Spanish style kitchens appealing for those who are seeking to capture the charm of a Spanish-style villa in their own home.
What are considered Mediterranean colors?
Mediterranean colors include warm and inviting hues that evoke images of sun-soaked coastal towns and tranquil Mediterranean waters. These colors are typically shades of blues and greens, and also include yellows, oranges and earthy reds.
Mediterranean colors often feel inviting, cozy and serene, making them perfect for creating a tranquil, spa-like space. Some popular shades in this color family include turquoise, periwinkle and seafoam, in addition to shades of sage, terra cotta and ochre.
To achieve the perfect Mediterranean-inspired palette, try pairing various shades of blue and green with pops of yellow, orange and red. Neutral tones such as taupes, beiges and creams blend nicely with any Mediterranean palette, adding a sense of warmth and serenity that helps to enhance the overall look.
What is the difference between Mediterranean and Spanish style homes?
The biggest difference between Mediterranean and Spanish style homes is the geographical origin of the architecture. Mediterranean style homes are based on the architecture from North Africa, the Middle East, and Italy while Spanish style homes are based on the architecture from the Iberian Peninsula, specifically around coastal regions of Barcelona, Valencia, and Andalusia in Spain.
Mediterranean style homes often feature red clay roof tiles, stucco walls, arched entries, and wrought iron detailing. The style is highly decorative with ornamental elements such as columns, balusters, balconies and more.
The floor plan is usually open and expansive, taking advantage of indoor-outdoor living often with courtyards, loggias, and gardens. The home is designed to blend in with its natural surroundings.
Spanish style homes commonly feature light-colored stucco walls, tiled roofs, and porches accompanied with open-grilled windows and balconies. There is less decoration than Mediterranean style homes typically, but still celebrates its Spanish heritage with colorful tiles, wrought-iron details, and traditional shutters.
Spanish style homes often also feature arched openings, beamed ceilings and terracotta tiling throughout. The floor plan often takes advantage of cross-ventilation and cooling, incorporating internal courtyard gardens, galleries, and porticoes into the design.
How do you make a Mediterranean Kitchen?
Creating a Mediterranean kitchen style involves combining various materials, colors, and textures to create a stylish and inviting space. Begin by painting the walls in light and airy colors. To help create a sense of timelessness, use earthy tones such as terracotta, oatmeal, and beige.
White works well, too. Then, select wooden elements such as shelves and countertops which can be paired with tiled backsplashes and stone accents such as accent walls, decorative hoods, and stone tiles.
To add texture, install woven accents throughout the kitchen such as plant hangers, shutters, and woven baskets. Keep the Mediterranean style unified by using natural colors and materials throughout.
Simplicity and functionality are also important aspects of Mediterranean kitchen design. Add statement pieces such as a large stone arch as a focal point or a tile mosaic for wall art. Select furniture pieces and fixtures with clean lines and minimal detailing to keep the kitchen design timeless.
Finally, accessorizing with natural textiles, hand-crafted art, and plants will add charm and character to your Mediterranean kitchen.
How do you build a small kitchen room?
Building a small kitchen room can be a fun and rewarding project. Whether you are remodeling an existing kitchen or building from scratch, there are many steps to keep in mind that will help you complete this project successfully.
First, plan the layout of your kitchen. Use a graph paper or online tool to create a floorplan that includes the size and location of key appliances, the location of cabinets and countertops, and any other details you would like to include.
Doing so ahead of time can help to ensure everything fits correctly.
Once you have the layout figured out, begin assembling materials. Consider the type of cabinets and countertops you will purchase and decide on any accent pieces such as decorative lighting fixtures.
Additionally, order any appliances you have chosen and be sure to ensure they will fit in the space.
Once materials have been purchased and delivered, begin installation. Start by making any necessary repairs to the walls, floor, or ceiling before installing electrical wiring and plumbing. Afterwards, begin installing cabinets and countertops, carefully following the proper installation techniques.
In addition, install any necessary shelving and connect the various appliances according to manufacturer instructions.
Finally, add any additional touches such as decorative tile or wall trim and focus on any necessary organization that will make the most effective use of the space. The last step is to enjoy the fruits of your labor, especially because a kitchen is the heart of your home.
What kind of backsplash makes a kitchen look bigger?
Using a backsplash in a kitchen that has light colors or reflective materials can help create the illusion of a larger kitchen. Opting to use a glossy tile or a glossy paint can add additional surface area that reflects light, making the walls appear to recede and the space look bigger.
Additionally, monochromatic tile that features color variations in different shades of the same hue will trick the eye and make the space appear larger than it is. Using large tiles instead of small tiles can also help to make the space feel bigger.
Moreover, installing a backsplash that goes from counter-top to the ceiling can help draw the eyes upward, making the ceilings look higher and the space feel bigger. Finally, incorporating glass or mirrored elements in the backsplash can amplify natural light and elongate the perceived space.
What is the type of floor for a kitchen?
The type of floor for a kitchen really depends on personal preference and the existing style of the kitchen. Some of the most popular kitchen flooring options include hardwood, laminate, tile, vinyl, and linoleum.
Hardwood floors are a classic and timeless option that can add a luxurious look to any kitchen. Laminate is a great option for those on a budget, as it offers a similar look to hardwood but is less expensive.
Tile is often used in bathrooms, but it can also be used in the kitchen for a unique and stylish look. Vinyl is a great option for busy households as it is durable and easy to clean. Finally, linoleum is another budget-friendly option that looks great in kitchens.
Ultimately, the type of floor for a kitchen is up to individual preference and style.
Should cabinets be lighter or darker than walls?
When considering whether to make your cabinets lighter or darker than your walls, it will depend heavily on the overall design of your room and personal preference. Generally, lighter colors are better for small rooms as they help to open up the space and reflect more light, while darker colors can make a room appear warm and cozy.
However, both light and dark colors have their respective advantages and drawbacks.
Lighter cabinets can help create a light and airy atmosphere, while darker cabinets can provide a more traditional or classic look. If you have a vibrant wall color, light cabinets can be used to soften it and create a more calming feel.
Lighter shades also tend to be easier to clean and maintain as they show less dirt, however they may be prone to fading over time.
Darker cabinets can also help create a warm and inviting atmosphere—think cherry or mahogany—but may show more dirt more easily. Dark cabinets can also tend to make the room feel more enclosed, so if your room is on the smaller side, it could be worth opting for something more neutral.
Ultimately, there is no definitive answer as to whether cabinets should be lighter or darker than walls—it will depend on a range of factors, from personal preference to the size of the room. If you’re unsure, it’s worth playing with a few different shades to see what looks best in the space.
How do I add counter space to my kitchen?
Adding counter space to your kitchen is a great way to make your kitchen look and function better. Depending on the space available, there are several options for adding counter space to your kitchen.
One option is to add an island or peninsula in the kitchen. Islands come in all shapes, sizes, and styles and provide extra space for food prep and storage. They can also provide an informal gathering spot for friends and family.
With seating or extra storage, an island can become an efficient addition that doubles as an accent piece.
Another option is to add extra counter space on the walls. This can be done by adding a countertop extension, an elevated ledge area, or hanging shelves. Countertop extensions increase counter space by adding countertop space below the existing countertop.
Elevated ledges are built into the walls and can provide extra storage or display space. Hanging shelves are another option that not only give extra storage and counter space, but can also make a room look more interesting and inviting.
No matter the size of your kitchen, adding counter space can give the room a completely new look and feel, while also providing function. Consider the space you have available, and choose the option that fits with your style and budget.
What you need for a Mexican Kitchen?
In order to create a Mexican kitchen, you’ll need several ingredients and tools. To get started, you’ll need a wide range of spices, such as cumin, Mexican oregano, ancho chile powder, and smoked paprika.
To create Mexican sauces and salsas, you’ll need limes, garlic, cilantro, jalapenos, and onions. Other basic items to have on hand include garlic, canned tomatoes, chipotles in adobo sauce, tortillas, avocados, and sour cream.
In addition to the ingredients, kitchen tools are also necessary. An essential tool is a sharp chef’s knife, which is necessary for chopping herbs and ingredients. A mortar and pestle, tortilla press, and a comal are also important tools, essential for making your own tortillas and salsas.
If you plan to do a lot of Mexican cooking, a taquera is important for making tacos, flautas, and other items. You’ll also need a comal for toasting and heating tortillas.
Lastly, you may need a few decor items to give your kitchen a true Mexican feel. Mexican pottery and art, a woven tablecloth, and Mexico-themed knick knacks are all great additions. If you have a large enough kitchen, a hammock adds a homey and relaxing vibe.
With these ingredients and tools, you’ll be well on your way to creating a truly authentic Mexican kitchen.
What are the three main ingredients in Mexican cooking?
The three main ingredients in Mexican cooking are chili peppers, corn, and beans. Chili peppers, which can be found in a variety of forms, both fresh and dried, have a distinct flavor and provide a great deal of heat to many dishes.
Corn is used in many preparations, from tortillas to tamales and sopes, and also serves as the base for other dishes. Beans, which are also a common staple, are used in a variety of preparations, from soups and salads to stews and burritos, providing a delicious protein source.
All three ingredients are staples in Mexican cooking and can be found in the vast majority of dishes.
What are 3 popular Mexican dishes?
Three popular Mexican dishes include tacos, enchiladas, and tamales.
Tacos are made from corn tortillas filled with a variety of ingredients such as beef, pork, chicken, seafood, vegetables, and cheeses. Often, they are topped with salsa, guacamole, sour cream, and lettuce.
Enchiladas are corn tortillas filled with a savoury filling, such as chicken, beef, or vegetables, and topped with a spicy sauce. They can be filled with cheese as well.
Tamales are a traditional Mexican dish made from masa, which is a kind of dough. The masa is filled with a savoury filling such as pork, beef, chicken, or vegetables, and then steamed inside a corn husk or banana leaf.
They are eaten plain or with salsa, guacamole, or sour cream.
What are traditional Mexican ingredients?
Traditional Mexican ingredients include tomatoes, onions, garlic, limes, avocados, jalapenos, corn, beans, chili peppers, cilantro, and spices like cumin, oregano, and chili powder. Other popular ingredients are tortillas (both corn and flour), meats like beef, pork, chicken, and seafood, as well as cheese, dairy products, and nuts.
Fruits are commonly used in Mexican cooking, including pineapple, mango, papaya, and watermelon, as well as bananas, oranges, and strawberries. Many types of fresh and dried chiles, such as ancho, guajillo, serrano, and pasilla, are also essential to traditional Mexican cooking.
Finally, Mexican cuisine wouldn’t be complete without a few sauces, like mole, salsa, enchilaada, and guacamole.
What gives Mexican food its smell?
The smell of Mexican food is heavilyz influenced by the various spices used when cooking. Common ingredients used in Mexican cuisine that contribute to its unique smell are garlic, cumin, chili powder, oregano, and onion.
Each of these ingredients adds its own unique flavor and aroma to the dish, making Mexican food so distinct. Additionally, Mexican cooking often utilizes ingredients like tomatoes and peppers, which both have their own unique smell that can lend to the overall scent of the dish.
Finally, many Mexican dishes contain cheese, adding a savory and robust smell to the overall aroma of the Mexican food. All of these ingredients blend together to give Mexican food its signature smell.
What is the base of the Mexican meal?
The base of the Mexican meal consists of staples such as corn, beans, rice and chilies. Corn and chilies are the main components of Mexican cuisine, which also includes vegetables, fruits, meats and seafood, as well as dairy and grains.
Many ingredients, such as nopales (cactus) and xoconostle (prickly pear), are unique to the region. Mexicans have a variety of unique dishes which include combining the main components in a variety of ways.
For example, tortilla made with corn and beans can be served as tacos or quesadillas, while chili peppers can be added to almost anything. Other popular dishes include enchiladas, tamales and mole, which is a spicy sauce typically served with chicken or pork.
What are the traditional foods in Mexico?
Mexico is home to a wide variety of traditional foods that are heavily influenced by the country’s indigenous cultures, Spanish colonization, and its location in a tropical climate. Common ingredients in Mexican cuisine typically include maize, beans, squash, chili peppers, avocados, and tomatoes.
Mexican cooks often combine these ingredients to create delicious dishes like tacos, burritos, and enchiladas.
Some of the most iconic dishes of Mexico include mole, pozole, chilaquiles, tamales, and chiles en nogada. Mole is a traditional sauce that can be served over roasted meats and is rich with different flavors.
Pozole is a hominy-based stew that is cooked with various seasonings, meats, and chiles. Chilaquiles are fried pieces of tortilla cooked with a sauce and topped with cheese. Tamales are made from corn dough that is filled with meat, vegetables, or beans, and steamed in a corn husk.
Finally, Chiles en Nogada is a dish made of a poblano pepper that is filled with a mix of meats and fruits, then covered with a creamy walnut sauce and pomegranate seeds.
Mexico is also known for its delicious street foods, like tacos al pastor, sopes, and elotes. Tacos al pastor is a type of taco made with slices of marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit. Sopes are small, thick corn tortillas that are usually topped with meats and vegetables.
Elotes is corn on the cob that is boiled or grilled, then served with cheese and chili peppers.
In terms of beverages, agua frescas, atoles, and horchata are among the most popular in Mexico. Agua frescas is a type of sweet fruit water, flavored with different fruits and often served over ice. Atole is a thick, porridge-like beverage made with corn, masa, and other ingredients.
Horchata is a cool, sweet drink made with ground almonds, sesame seeds, or rice.
Mexico’s cuisine is influenced by its culture and environment, and locals have developed a variety of delicious dishes over the centuries. Each dish is unique and offers something special to experience.
What is rarely eaten in Mexico?
In Mexico, one food item that is rarely eaten is haggis. Haggis is a savory pudding containing sheep’s liver, heart, and lungs that is popular in Scotland. It is typically made with onions, oatmeal, suet, and spices, and is typically boiled in a sheep’s stomach and served with “neeps” (mashed turnips) and “tatties” (mashed potatoes).
While haggis is typically associated with Scotland, it is also popular in other parts of the UK and in certain parts of the United States. In Mexico, however, haggis is an extremely uncommon dish. It is generally only available in a few international restaurants, particularly those that specialize in British fare.
What food item accompanies almost every meal in Mexico?
In Mexico, a common food item that is present with almost every meal is a type of tortilla, which is made with corn or wheat, depending on the region. Tortillas can be prepared in different ways and are often used for tacos, quesadillas, and burritos.
Another staple food item in Mexican cuisine is rice, which accompanies most savory dishes and can be cooked with a variety of flavors. Refried beans are also very popular and commonly served side dishes.
Depending on the meal, salsas, guacamole, and other condiments are usually served to accompany the food. Fruit is also commonly eaten as part of the meal, providing a sweet complement to the savory dishes.
What are Mexican vegetables?
Mexican vegetables are an indispensable part of Mexican cuisine. Mexican vegetables vary depending on the region, but some of the most common types are tomatoes, potatoes, sweet potatoes, peppers, corn, squash, beans, and avocados.
Tomatoes are used in many Mexican dishes, including salsa, sauces, and salads. Potatoes, sweet potatoes, and peppers are used to make dishes such as tacos and sopes. Corn is used to make the signature Mexican dish, elote, as well as to make tortillas.
Squash is popular in Mexican soups and sides, while beans form a large part of the traditional Mexican diet. Avocado also features prominently in Mexican cuisine, used to make guacamole and featured in many dishes ranging from salads to tacos.
In addition to the vegetables listed above, other Mexican vegetables include carrots, onion, cucumber, lima beans, and jicama.