If you decide to live in the south of the country, you will appreciate the rustic Algarvian decoration style that draws from the cultural heritage, customs, and way of life of the region.
If you have invested or are about to invest in a property in the Algarve and want to add a touch of authenticity and charm, keep reading to discover the best tips for Algarvian decoration!
Searching on Google? Yes, that's one way to discover options for an Algarvian decoration with characteristic elements from the southern region of Portugal... but you can also read this article with suggestions that will suit you!
Furniture
Typical Algarvian furniture is rustic, sturdy and solid, made with dark woods and often features details that add a touch of authenticity. So, if you have the opportunity to restore or use well-preserved antique furniture, that's great. Otherwise, opt for buying more traditional new furniture, especially if you are decorating a country house in Algarvian style, with lots of utensils hanging along suspended shelves in the kitchen and chairs and tables with curved legs in the living room — all characteristic elements of the region's decoration! Alternatively, or simultaneously, you can use wicker furniture, lighter and also typical in the Algarve, with handcrafted details.
Colors
As expected, the color palette of Algarvian decoration draws inspiration from the warm tones of nature:
Decorative Objects
The list of objects that contribute to Algarvian decoration is extensive, so you should choose the elements that best match your personal taste and the architectural style of your home, including:
1 - Ceramic Objects
Plates with geometric designs, vases with traditional patterns, jars with floral motifs... There are various ceramic objects that you can use to decorate in a way that benefits from a handcrafted touch in your apartment or villa in the Algarve.2 - Wicker Baskets
For storing bread, magazines, or snacks for a picnic, wicker baskets are practical and versatile Algarvian decorative objects that are essential in homes that want to add a countryside touch.
3 - Clay Pieces
Vases, jugs, pots, figurines and other clay objects for interior and exterior decoration are essential in an Algarvian house, which may also have a typical clay chimney - a symbol of the region's architecture.
4 - Tiles
Portugal is the World Capital of Tiles! It has been manufacturing them for over five centuries, in different styles and patterns, so it's not surprising to find tiles in houses in the Algarve: on walls, floors, panels, and murals with traditional patterns inspired by Moorish culture.
Textiles
Algarvian textiles are known for their quality, elegance, and diversity, made with natural fabrics that fit well in any type of decoration. Algarvian handcrafted lace and embroidery on tablecloths, curtains and bedspreads are the pinnacle of this matter, keeping one of the main traditions in the Algarve alive.
Handwoven rugs and cushions with geometric or nature-inspired patterns are also common in Algarvian decoration, personalizing apartments and villas.
Lighting
Lamps in metal, brass or hand-forged wrought iron are highly appreciated in the Algarve as they create a cozy atmosphere in indoor and outdoor spaces. However, you may not need artificial light during the day, as Algarvian houses are designed to make the most of the natural light, abundant throughout almost the entire year, with wide windows, glass doors, and skylights, for example.
Garden
Does your home have a garden? Decorate it with typical regional trees and plants, such as olive, almond, and fig trees, among others. Also, use plants like bougainvilleas - with vibrant flowers in shades of pink, red, orange, or purple - and fragrant lavenders, among other species that thrive in the Algarve's Mediterranean climate. If you don't have a garden, invest in Algarvian decoration with sardine planters adorning the windows and indoor plants like ferns, succulents, and cacti.
Garden Furniture
Another characteristic of Algarvian outdoor decoration is a table with chairs on the patio, terrace, or pool deck. With mild weather and 300 days of sun per year, Algarvians love to enjoy their outdoor spaces and have meals with family and friends in contact with nature, whether on wooden, stone, or steel tables and benches, on sun loungers or on hanging rocking chairs on a tree!
The decoration tips are already noted, but do you still need that Algarve house to decorate according to the region's traditions? Contact Engel & Völkers Portimão!