Mediterranean "Style" Architecture

Mediterranean Characteristics

The design characteristics of the Mediterranean region have evolved from its climate, topography, ancient religious buildings and people's lifestyles and cultures. The rocky, sloping sites with a view to the sea and a temperate climate have resulted in some recognizable design characteristics.

This 'style' tends to be an open plan to capture the views from as many rooms as possible. Flat roofs are common because of the infrequent precipitation, the accommodation of roof terraces and regulations to not block a neighbor's view.

For ease of construction on the sloping sites the building forms remain fairly boxy. The use of structural columns and arches are important because of the regions classical roots. A courtyard with a fountain integrates an outdoor living area used for leisure and dining with water sculpture. The water imparts the suggestion of refreshment and rejuvenation into an otherwise semi-arid climate, along with the musical quality that dripping water can impart.

Portals, loggias, porticos, verandas and terraces are all common due to the pragmatic need of shading the interior and the desire to create outdoor rooms to take advantage of the temperate climate. The transition between interior and exterior space is easy and convenient. We have come to associate these and other design characteristics as Mediterranean 'style' architecture because of their predominant use in this region. [+]

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