Inspired by seaside retreats, Mediterranean-style homes are marked by architecture, textured materials, and landscaping.

With ties to historic European architecture, Mediterranean-style homes are reminiscent of sun-soaked, seaside locales.

The elegant exteriors often feature red roof tiles, stucco walls, arches, and enclosed outdoor spaces.

castle-inspired stucco home

Credit: Mark Lohman

These Mediterranean-inspired homes showcase timeless style with global appeal.

With its emphasis on warmth andoutdoor living, the aesthetic is often associated with wealth and a leisurely lifestyle.

This modest home uses unmistakably Mediterranean stucco walls and a classic tiled roof with a more approachable look.

mediterranean color country french style home

Credit: Michael Partenio

A medieval castle in Italy inspired the architecture of this made-to-look-old home.

Rust-colored stucco siding, clay roof tiles, and an eye-catching arched entrance invoke countryside charm.

Luxury Mediterranean Home

This large Mediterranean-style home puts a luxurious twist on traditionalSpanish architecture.

Mediterranean-style ranch exterior with tropical plants

Credit: Michael Garland

Reclaimed clay roof tiles and limestone-trimmed exterior windows and doors remain faithful to the home’s European inspiration outside.

Gas-powered lanterns, simple iron railings, andarched French doorsimbue the exterior with old-world style.

Mediterranean Outdoor Living Spaces

Outdoor living spaces play a significant role in Mediterranean-style home plans.

traditional mediterranean-style home with stone

Credit: Edward Gohlich

Abundant plantings oftensurround large porches, patios, and courtyards.

Climbing plants, wrought-iron fixtures, and arched doorways add moreMediterranean charm.

Roofs feature wide, overhanging eaves with large brackets under the roofline.

stucco home with clay roof tiles and french door

Credit: Ryann Ford

Mediterranean Landscaping

Vibrant landscaping addsinviting curb appealto gardens that often feature lots of contrast.

Soft foliage against stone walls or tall, sprawling vines next to tidy clipped hedges do the trick.

Acurving walkway gardenadds interest to this Mediterranean-style home exteriorcovered in greenery.

Mediterranean-inspired home with patio

Credit: Mark Lohman

Italian Mediterranean Home

This Mediterranean-style home is inspired by Italian architecture and applies elegant, authentic design.

Clay roof tiles, grand arches, and a mix of stone and stuccogive the exteriora classic Italian appearance.

Arches are used inside and outside the home to impart a sense of history.

Mediterranean-inspired home with stone columns

Credit: Mary Fran Brennan

Here, vivid plantings tie the colorful Mediterranean house to the surrounding lawn and landscape.

Spanish Mediterranean Homes

Spanish Mediterranean-style homes are typically built with clean-lined shapes and low-pitched roofs.

However, more strikingSpanish-style homesmight also featureintricate tilework, as seen above and around thefront doorof this house.

limestone and stucco home

Credit: Werner Straube

The windows with wrought-iron details are another Mediterranean design touch.

The home above has vast outdoor areas where the homeowners and guests enjoy gardening, entertaining, and relaxing.

Spanish Mediterranean Architecture

This Southern California home references Spanish and Mediterranean architecture.

home with mediterranean landscaping

Credit: Mary Fran Brennan

Brackets at the bottom of the windows add architectural interest and a rustic look.

The warm, earthy color palette takes its cue from natural colors in the Spanish countryside.

Red brick enhances earthy exterior tones while offering durability.

stone and stucco home with clay roof tiles and fountain

Credit: Emily Followill

Its non-slip surface ensures safety, even when wet.

Mediterranean-Style Stucco

Inside and out, stucco is one of the most recognizable features of Mediterranean homes.

Architectural Home Styles

Mediterranean homes are only one of the many architectural styles seen nationwide.

Mediterranean-inspired home with garden

Credit: Ed Gohlich

They typically have an eye-pleasing symmetrical facade.

SimpleCraftsman-style homesgained popularity as a response to the more ornate design ofVictorian architecture.

Mediterranean-inspired home with intricate tilework

Credit: Ed Gohlich

Mediterranean-inspired home with staircase entry

Credit: John Granen

spanish-and-mediterranean-inspired home

Credit: Ed Gohlich

home with stone walkway and clay roof tiles

Credit: Ed Gohlich

Mediterranean-inspired home

Credit: Tria Giovan