Heather Nette King is a Melbourne-based interiors stylist and writer for many leading interior titles and newspapers. The hallmarks of her styling are colour and vibrancy, and she writes passionately about peoples’ homes and how they live in them.
The dream (or daydream) of an idyllic stay on a magical Greek island is something that can sustain us through the most brutal of winter weeks. The purity of those deep blue skies and whitewashed buildings, the promise of sunrises and sunsets over the Aegean and Ionian seas, not to mention the tummy-rumbles at the thought of the freshest seafood barbeques. So, if the idea of living your life like you’re always on a Greek island getaway appeals to you, here are my top tips to create that unbeatable island paradise at home.
What are some key elements or design features that can help capture the essence of Greek island aesthetics in an outdoor space?
A: Whilst many of us won’t have the option to hand-plaster and whitewash our homes, white paint is a very close second when it comes to creating this fresh look. Whether you just paint indoors or decide to go all out and paint your exteriors too, choose a matte paint rather than a satin or gloss to give it the most authentic look. Indoors, rustic finishes such as stone or stone-look floors (look at the Elements Hybrid Tile range), layered jute rugs, open shelving and wide arched doorways will add to the aesthetic.
How can someone incorporate the iconic white and blue colour palette of the Greek islands into their outdoor escape while still maintaining a unique personal touch?
A: You can make the blue and white theme permanent by painting window frames and doors in the glorious shades of the Greek islands – try Dulux’s Sea Note or International or Cousteau. The best whites to use are really pure, not creamy, so try Dulux’s Vivid White or Porter’s Paints Popcorn. If you love greenery, urns and planters painted in a few shades of blue will add instant Greek Isle vibes.
Greek islands are known for their beautiful landscapes. What are some plant and flower options that can bring the Mediterranean vibe to an outdoor space?
A: The vivid pinks and oranges of bougainvillea flowers climbing up over a wall or pergola will create an instant holiday-joy palette. Large pots with olive trees and bigger herbs like rosemary will add the right green hues. For smaller plantings, again, herbs in pots can do double duty – they look beautiful, and you can add them to your cooking too. Or if you love a bit of kitsch, then plant some geraniums in tomato tins (I love this look). Finally for big outdoor spaces, plant laurel, or acanthus (which also happen to be two of Greece’s floral emblems).
How could one use curtains/window furnishings to create a seamless transition between indoor/outdoor areas?
A: Beautiful bright white plantation shutters spring to mind when I imagine a glorious Greek island home. The Eggshell colourway in Carpet Court’s range is perfect to achieve this look. Another way to create those easy-breezy summer feels is with linen-look sheers such as Carpet Court’s Bali sheers in Chalk the Seattle sheers in Denim or in Sky.
Outdoor furniture and decor contribute to the overall look and feel of a space. What types of outdoor accessories (e.g: Jute Rugs) would you recommend to achieve a Greek island-inspired outdoor setting?
A: Natural timber is a great option for most outdoor areas as it can be styled up to work with different trends or aesthetics, be it Greek, coastal, bush-inspired, or urban. Vivid blue or blue and white striped cushions are also a very cost-effective way to create the theme. Painted timber furniture like chairs with jute or rush seating are a mainstay of Greek-island style, so why not break out the paintbrush. I’m always in favour of festoon or fairy lights in an outdoor setting, so string up some lovely warm white globes over a table or lounge area. On the floor, a jute rug will add natural charm – try the Darren Palmer Earth or Bondi range. The blue and white theme can also be carried onto the floor, so look to the fab outdoor rug collection at Carpet Court – particularly the Terrazzo Ocean in Blue Ocean or Tex Ocean, or the Terrace range in Cain Blue.
Water features are often associated with Greek islands. Are there any creative ways to incorporate water elements, such as fountains or pools, into a backyard or outdoor area with limited space?
A: The sound of trickling water will go a long way to create that holiday at home feel. Portable water-features can be found at garden centres, or for a more permanent option where space is limited, a classic lion head wall-mounted feature could be plumbed into the space.
Greek islands offer a sense of tranquillity and relaxation. How can someone design their outdoor escape to evoke those feelings and create a peaceful oasis?
A: Having a range of different seating and lounging options will immediately help to create a sense of rest and repose. Whilst inbuilt lounges in whitewashed plaster would be the ideal, portable sun-loungers, recliners, chairs, and hammocks are the next best option for the kind of rest you are after – be it reading time, an afternoon siesta, a place to lie and sun-worship.
Natural materials like stone and wood are frequently seen in Greek island architecture. How can one incorporate these materials into their outdoor space to achieve an authentic Greek island feel?
A: Opt for rough-hewn, natural finishes that are not too refined. The more texture the better when creating Greek island style, so shy away from anything too polished and perfect.
Outdoor dining is a popular activity on Greek islands. Are there any tips or ideas for creating a dining area that emulates the traditional Greek taverna experience?
A: Aaaah, a long, long table laden with incredibly fresh seafood, vegetables, barbequed meat and fried Saganaki cheese is a good start. Top your table with a classic blue and white check tablecloth, use handmade ceramic and glassware. Pour your wine into carafes. Pop some bright bougainvillea into little vases, add votive candles. Abundance is everything here, so layer up that table!
Greece is known for its rich history and mythology. Are there any decorative elements or design options that can incorporate Greek mythology into an outdoor escape inspired by the Greek islands?
A: Greece is so well known for its classic architectural elements like columns and urns. Urns are probably the most achievable design element to add to your home, so fill them with plants or adapt them to use as water features. If you’re entertaining, paying homage to the Greek gods of wine (Dionysus) and feasting (Hestia) is a lovely way to bring an authentic Greek island vibe to your outdoor escape. Ceramicware featuring depictions of the gods and goddesses, or classic Grecian motifs would be a great start, as would printed themed napkins.
