Global Architecture: Italian Style

http://www.italy-pictures.net/

Hello LDV readers! Brendan here of (BAD) Blog About Design. The architecture of Italy is very broad and diverse in its design. Before the Italian unification, Italy was a divided nation, therefore, each city had a different architectural style. Italian architecture is not to be classified by region or period, but rather by its architectural achievements. (ABOVE) The city of Venice was influenced by a style known as Venetian Gothic, which combined Byzantine and Moorish architecture. The Gothic period, was a time when Venice was prosperous and the upper class funded the building of new churches and lavish properties for themselves. (BELOW 1) Architect Andrea Palladio, modeled the facade of the San Giorgio Maggiore after a Greek temple. The beautiful white facade, with four columns and ornate details, is impeccable and makes a strong statement against the brick church. (BELOW 2) The Trevi Fountain in Rome, is the largest Baroque fountain in the city. The statues bordering the iconic fountain are so beautiful. (BELOW 3) Completed in 126 AD, the Pantheon in Rome, is a well respected building in the Roman architectural style. The Pantheon is still well known for its impeccable dome, which is still the world's largest unreinforced concrete dome. Which structure is your favorite?

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(1) Parker Combo Dress, (2) M Missoni Diagonal Stripe Colorblock Dress, (3) tuleste market Solid Petal Necklace, (4) Oliver Peoples Eyewear Mande Polarized Sunglasses, (5) M Missoni Shoulder Bag, (6) Maison Martin Margiela Open Toe Booties

The Fashion: For the looks above, I was inspired by the Italian city. Bold prints and bright colors represent the energy found in Milan, Rome, as well as the other iconic cities in Italy. The Missoni dress is a perfect choice. It's bold, and features a great stripe print. I am a huge fan of the petal necklace. What a perfect statement piece to go with the Missoni dress. Pair both dresses with the Missoni shoulder bag, and you've got the perfect Italian inspired ensemble. Which piece is your favorite?

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(ABOVE 4) The architecture found on the Amalfi Coast is greatly influenced by Medieval and Byzantine styles as well as the sharp lines found in northern architecture. (THE DESIGN PIECES) For the above home accessories, I was inspired by vintage Italian finds and bright colors. The 1960 Italian crystal chandelier is from Orange. What a great piece for an entrance foyer. The vintage Rya rug is from Nazmiyal. I love the color and pattern. What a perfect piece for a Master bedroom. The 1950 Italian vessel is from Lobel Modern. I would place the vessel on a vintage 1970s square table and place the table in the center of my entrance foyer. When guests walk in, they'll be greeted by a beautiful crystal chandelier and vessel. What do you think?

--Brendan