10 Italian Furniture Pieces That Exude Elegance and Sophistication

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Have you been looking through interior design magazines and websites for the best Italian furniture to incorporate into your home? Your search is over because we’ve compiled a list of some of the most sophisticated ones on the market right now! Continue reading to learn more and see how they can improve the appearance of your home!

Defining Characteristics of Italian Furniture

With such a diverse range of interior design styles, the Italian theme is undoubtedly one of the terms you’ll encounter. But what distinguishes Italian furniture from the rest?

Eclectic Designs

Italian furniture is essentially a fusion of different styles from various centuries. It combines influences from Ancient Greece and Rome to the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, the 19th century, and today, the 21st century.

For example, many Italian-inspired pieces of furniture incorporate classical designs and concepts from the Greeks and Romans. The Greeks’ emphasis on the golden ratio – or proportioned elements – was carried on by the Romans not only in their sculptures but also in their home furnishings.

As a result, chairs, tables, and other home furnishings are designed with balanced lines and shapes to display perfection. Simply put, ornamentation and decoration are valued more than functionality and comfort. Some examples of this are canopy beds with pillars, x-shaped chairs, and opulent jewelry chests.

Italian furniture is also heavily immersed with mythological and Biblical imagery. There is the influence of the Baroque style, which is characterized by elaborate crystals, alongside gold and silver leaf. Chairs, tables, cupboards, and even stairs are also designed with exaggerated scrolls.

However, during the decline of the Roman empire, Italian furniture also become more focused on function and simplicity rather than aesthetics. It was at this time that furniture like stools and plain tables became more popular.

In terms of storage, pantry and kitchen cabinets were also produced to be more cost-effective rather than decorative. Open shelves and those with collapsible designs became more popular for their convenience when storing cutleries. Another example is the emergence of portable and minimalist desks, cupboards, and other storage items.

Italian furniture from the 20th century until today shows traces of classical influences but is more contemporary in style. They are glass-centric and incorporate more flexible, edgier designs. Concept chairs, tables, storage units, for example, are more experimental without sacrificing function.

Use of Natural Materials

The majority of Italian-inspired furniture on the market today adheres to the use of natural materials that were evident and common during its ancient history. Their use of solid woods, fibers, metals, and stones is an example of this.

Home furnishings such as dining tables and coffee tables, for example, frequently include marble tabletops. At the same time, furniture frames are commonly made with bronze and ivory accents.

Apart from that, solid woods such as walnut, chestnut, fir, and cypress are commonly used. Their durability and beauty are the main reasons why they are often used in the production of elegant coffee tables, dining tables, chairs, bed frames, and storage units.

Terracotta is another important material commonly found in Italian homes. This material has a rich, dark earthen color, and its widespread use in Italian homes makes it synonymous with what it means to have an Italian-inspired home.

Iron, brass, steel, and copper are other metals that are frequently used in Italian-inspired furniture. They are used in furnishings as either the main component or as details and patterns.

Natural fibers, in addition to metals and woods, are highly valued in the production of Italian furniture. Velvet and silk, for example, are commonly used to ensure comfort and add sophistication to a room. Leather is also heavily used to create a vintage and luxurious vibe.

Bold and Neutral Colors

Italian interior design is known to incorporate both vibrant and neutral color schemes. This is done to add contrast as well as to enhance the personality of a room.

But there’s another reason why Italian furniture is brightly colored. This is due to the materials used in their manufacture. Furniture made of dark-colored hardwoods, such as walnut, is an example of this, as it is reminiscent of classical Italian furniture. Teak and mahogany are two other hardwoods that are commonly used in the creation of Italian furniture even today.

Furthermore, Italian upholstery usually uses high-quality and genuine leather. Sofas and chairs with this kind of material have unique patterns and a dark brown color that only genuine leather possess. Also, Italians’ wide usage of terracotta adds to the identity and remarkable features to be expected in an Italian home.

Aside from rich and dark colors, Italian furniture also comes with a neutral palette. This traces back to the 18th and 19th century, where the Neoclassical style became dominant in Italy and other European countries. This style gives importance to the use of muted colors to foster a plain yet calming atmosphere at home.

Of course, the use of neutral colors can also be attributed to the materials that were often used in Italian furniture, such as marble, ivory, seashells, and crystals.

Clean Lines and Elegant Designs

As previously stated, Italian furniture during the classical period was monumental and lavish, serving as a symbol of wealth more than anything else. As a result, these pieces of furniture are made with the finest details and craftsmanship, which is evident in vintage furniture. Closets, tables, bed posts, chairs, and even staircases and doors have intricate designs.

The use of decorative and elaborate details in Italian-inspired furniture is still done today. This is evident in the ornate wooden arms and legs of a sofa, as well as its tufted surface. Storage units, such as closets and chests, typically have ornate frames as well.

But while Italian furniture is known for their fine and elaborate details, they are also often made with clean and simple lines. This kind of design is reminiscent of 18th century Italy, where neutral colors and geometric lines were used to create a minimalist home. Such use of these elements help create an impression of a spacious home as well.

Durable

Italian furniture is not only known for its elegance but is also known for its high quality and durability. As previously stated, solid woods and high-quality textiles are heavily used in the production of Italian furniture. They are also made with a high-quality finish that not only makes them shiny but also protects them from molds and scratches.

As a result, Italian furniture is guaranteed to withstand both natural elements and the rigors of daily use. They are often passed down through generations as a family heirloom.

Consequently, Italian furniture (and Italian-inspired ones) are some of the most popular products that you can buy at high-end furniture stores.

10 Elegant Italian Furniture to Buy

Are you ready to incorporate Italian furniture into your home? Sì? Here are 10 Italian-inspired pieces of furniture and some tips to enhance the elegance of your home!

Living Room

For creating an Italian-inspired living room, it is important to carefully choose everything. This place is, after all, where guests usually gather. Leave them with a lasting impression of your home by creating a welcoming vibe.

To do this, choose neutral-colored walls that contrast well with vibrant and decorative furniture, such as the following:

1. Walker Edison Coffee Table

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Coffee tables are one of the most useful pieces of furniture in a living room. With this, it should not only be elegant but should be durable as well. Consider this example from Walker Edison.

This mid-century coffee table, made of sturdy metal legs and high-quality manufactured wood, will not easily crumble due to weight and physical pressure. It also has a faux marble tabletop that looks as elegant as those with genuine marble, for less cost!

With the use of faux material, gold accents, and clean, geometric lines, the Walker Edison Coffee Table gives your living room an expensive look, fusing beauty and functionality in perfect harmony.

Read more: Tuscan Warmth: Italian-Inspired Interiors

2. Christopher Knight Home Karen Chesterfield Sofa

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Another example of excellent living room furniture is this sofa from Christopher Knight. With its thick and soft velvet, this chesterfield sofa is guaranteed to give comfort to your aching muscles after a long day of work.

Additionally, it has scrolled arms, deep button tufting, and a charming blue color to give your living room a luxurious Italian villa feel. Having this sofa is also perfect for family movie nights and getting together with your friends!

3. SM Saint Mossi Maria Therese Chandelier

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Incorporating multiple lighting sources is another great way to make your living room inviting. You can install wall sconces, table lamps, and the most lavish crystal chandelier like this one from Saint Mossi!

With its raindrop style, the Modern Therese Chandelier provides adequate lighting in your room while also looking sophisticated. There’s no need to be concerned about whether it will fit your slanted ceilings because the Maria Therese can fit any type – from flat to vaulted! Furthermore, this light fixture is dimmable, which is useful if you want a soft, white glow in your living room.

4. Design Toscano Italian Globe Cart Cabinet

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An Italian-inspired home is not quite the same without a wine bar or a wine cellar. Have a portable version of this using this clever product from Design Toscano!

Equipped with rolling wheels and spacious shelves, the Design Toscano Cart Cabinet acts as both a mini winery and a portable serving cart. It also has slots to fit drinks and glasses to keep them from falling.

Moreover, it is made of high-quality hardwoods and manufactured wood to ensure durability. It also has ornate, handcrafted legs and a paper map to give your home a vintage touch. With this globe cart cabinet in your home, you can have a taste of your favorite cocktail, anytime and anywhere! Have fun using it in your home office or at the entertainment room to share drinks with your friends.

5. Ohuhu Bookshelf

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Want to create a small reading corner in the living room? You can achieve this with the help of a sturdy and stylish bookshelf like this one from Ohuhu. Wall-mounted and equipped with spacious shelves and drawers, this bookshelf is perfect for arranging your books. It consists of five tiers as well, making it a great storage solution for other home decors like plants, picture frames, and display collections.

What’s more, the Ohuhu Bookshelf is highly reminiscent of the classical Italian wall-mounted shelves, which were also made in modular designs to save space. This bookshelf also has a minimalist and retro look, making it a charming addition to your appartamenti!

Dining Room and Kitchen

Finding a balance between beauty and functionality is the ideal way to incorporate Italian interior design concepts into your kitchen and dining room. This means that all home furnishings are not only decorative but also highly functional.

Choosing thick and warm-colored draperies, for example, is a wise choice for filtering out sunlight while also giving the kitchen a serene atmosphere. Of course, fine-crafted furniture and storage units made from natural materials are a must-have because they are both visually appealing and long-lasting.

6. Ink+Ivy Mercer Dining Table

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With its solid construction, this dining table from Ink+Ivy effortlessly fuses utility and beauty. For instance, it has an oval wooden tabletop that is spacious enough for small to medium-sized families. It also has sturdy metal legs made of bronze wires. These designs are reminiscent of the mid-century Italian dining tables. With this in your home, dining with your loved ones will surely be a thing to look forward to.

7. Home Styles Pantry Cabinet

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This pantry cabinet from Home Styles is yet another stunning piece of furniture for your home. With four adjustable shelves, this cabinet can hold all of your kitchen necessities – from canned goods to kitchenware!

In addition, the Home Styles Cabinet is constructed of solid hardwood with a dark cherry finish. It is also accented with brass hardware, making it both a durable and beautiful addition to the room.

Bathroom

Italians also give lots of thought to their bathroom’s interior design. Essentially, it is more than just a place of comfort; it is also a place of elegance.

Like with any area of your home, you can install wall scones and even a chandelier to provide enough lighting and make it look more glamorous. There should also be plenty of storage units for convenience.

Read more: How To Store Italian Bread

8. Utex Ladder Shelf

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This Utex tiered shelf is ideal for storing all of your bathroom essentials. It has three spacious tiers that are suitable for storing your hygiene kit and some bath towels. It can also be used to display potted plants and books.

This open rack is made of premium manufactured wood, so there’s no need to be concerned about its durability. Its freestanding design makes it great for use as a corner shelf, giving you more floor space. Aside from its sturdy construction, the Utex Shelf has a refreshing white color that adds to the clean look of your bathroom.

With these characteristics, this rack complements both neutral and warm-colored tiles to create a relaxing atmosphere in the room.

Bedroom

The common area of your home deserves the best interior design, and so does your bedroom! As this is your personal space, it should be comfy and relaxing to stay in. To ensure this, go for a pastel color scheme in choosing your home furnishings. You can try this Italian-inspired piece of furniture, for example.

9. HomeLife Premiere Bed Frame

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A perfect blend of comfort, function, and style, this platform bed from Home Life can make all the difference in your bedroom. It is made of high-quality materials that make it long-lasting.

For instance, its whole bed frame is made of solid hardwood; with its headboard covered in upholstered polyester linen. It also has an elegant, tufted design, which is an element that often reoccurs in Italian upholstery. You can use any kind of mattress and bedding set due to the sturdy wooden slats that this frame has. This bed frame also comes in a light grey color, which will match both your pastel and warm-colored walls or decors perfectly.

Patio

Transforming your home into an elegant space akin to Italian homes would be incomplete without paying attention to your patio. The good news is that it is much simpler than you think!

For outdoor lounging, you could invest in some recliners and foldable tables, for example. Decorate this area with enchanting flowering plants like bougainvillea, periwinkles, and oleander to make it more romantic and picturesque. Make use of a stylish plant holder as well, such as this one:

10. Nakupe Plant Pedestal Holder

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With its stable construction, the Nakupe Plant Pedestal Holder is just what you need to adorn your patio with fresh plants. It is made of thick iron with powder coating added to keep it from rusting. Additionally, it is equipped with a non-slip design to prevent it from scuffing the floors.

Aside from the stable construction, this planter features elaborated, scrolled patterns that give it a delicate and appealing look. It also functions as a corner stand for other home decors and displays. With all these features, the Nakupe Holder is surely a great addition to your front porch and balcony.

How to Care for Italian Furniture

Owning any kind of furniture comes with the responsibility of cleaning and maintaining it. However, for exquisite (and oftentimes expensive) Italian furniture, you should be more careful to ensure that the decorative designs are not harmed. As such, here are some pointers and tricks to help you clean your furniture properly and effectively:

Italian Upholstery 

As previously stated, leather and velvet are common materials used in Italian upholstery such as sofas and chairs. These materials are relatively simple to clean when done correctly.

• Vacuum them regularly to get rid of dust and hairs that may have accumulated over time. Make sure to use a handheld vacuum as this is easier to control. Choose vacuums with a soft brush to avoid damage on the surface of both leather and velvet sofas.
• Get rid of water or liquid spills simply by using an absorbent, dry cleaning cloth. After doing this, let both the leather and velvet sofas air dry.
• For hard-to-clean stains, like grease, spot-cleaning is the best way to go for both velvet and leather materials. Do this by using a mild cleaning solution (made of dish soap and water) and soaking a cleaning cloth into it. After that, use the soaked cleaning cloth to gently blot the stain until it is finally removed. You can also use a dry brush to lightly scrub away the stain. Once the stain is removed, make sure to use an extra cleaning cloth to wipe away any excess moisture.

Wooden Italian Furniture

Cleaning wooden furniture also requires extra care and caution. Remember that you would not want their shine and polish to fade. With that, here are some tips to follow:

• Use a smooth, damp cleaning cloth or a feather duster when removing dust.
• To remove dried stains, mix water with dishwashing soap and dip a cleaning cloth into it. Wring it out to remove the excess water and then use it to wipe the affected area until the stain is removed. After that, wipe the surface again but this time with a dry cleaning cloth.
• If your wooden furniture needs extra shine and repolishing, you can use a homemade solution by mixing up a cup of olive oil and white vinegar. Dip a cleaning cloth into this solution and gently wipe it across the entire surface of the furniture. Once done, use a buffer to make it shiny.

Metal Italian Furniture

For maintaining Italian furniture made of metal, you can simply dust and clean them with a clean cloth.

It is important to note, however, that some metals, such as steel and wrought iron, are more prone to rust (unlike aluminum). This is common on Italian candlesticks, wall sconces, and metal plant stands. As a result, certain steps should be taken to remove rust and prevent it from returning.

• Use soft cleaning tools such as cloths, brushes, and sponges over those with abrasive parts. This ensures that the surface will be free from scratches and peeling.
• One effective way to remove rust, is to use a mixture of white vinegar and salt. Apply this solution to the rusted area and let it soak for about 15 minutes or more, when necessary. After that, use a wire brush or a scrubbing pad to completely remove the rust.
• Aside from white vinegar and salt, you can also apply lime juice to remove rust. Leave it on the rusted area for about 30 mins or more depending on the thickness of the rust build-up. Proceed to scrub the affected area until all the rust flakes are removed.
• For added protection against rust, you can also spray the metal furniture with a metal primer. This substance acts as a protective coating, blocking rust from appearing on the surface. Paint the area as well for added coating and protection.

All in all, getting a piece of Italian furniture is a great option to add a touch of sophistication to your home. They not only represent Italy’s rich culture and history, but they also add character to the room, transforming it into a picturesque setting. So, go ahead and incorporate exquisite Italian furniture into your home right now!