Let’s take a trip to Malibu in 1972. Walking through Joan Didion’s home, you will see a treasure trove of Spanish-style interiors that are just as in fashion today as they were back then.
Archival images of the writer’s dining room show a masterpiece of warm neutrals. It features a Federal-era drop leaf dining room table, inherited from her husband’s great-grandmother, surrounded by black and wicker Hitchcock chairs. A timeless peacock wicker chair brings height to the end of the table.
Beyond the table, the room itself is a fresh take on the Spanish revival trend. The base of the room is Mexican terracotta tile, which extends to the kitchen countertops. Joan’s walls are crisp white and the ceilings are made of dark stained wood. Green plants brighten ever corner of the space.
(Image credit: Henry Clarke/Conde Nast via Getty Images)
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This intricately woven chair reminds us exactly why white wicker will never lose its appeal. Much like Joan’s sweeping staple piece, this boho-style woven chair has a flared back that turns a forgotten corner into a showcase.
Amasya Ladder Back Side Chair
These ladder back, wicker bottom chairs look remarkably similar to the Hitchcock chairs in Joan Didion’s dining room. Pair them with a wooden table to recreate her Spanish-style design.
CANDWAX
White Taper Candles
Tall white candles are the perfect way to bring height and style to a simple dining room. Pair with elevated candlesticks for an extra striking design.
Though it was almost 50 years ago, an exploration of Joan’s home is quite timely. According to experts, this cozy Mediterranean style is one of the biggest interior design trends to look out for this summer.
Why? It’s the perfect escapist fantasy embedded in grounded interiors.
‘Travel across the world this summer with this almost neutral scheme, blending a soft olive palette with gentle pops of coral and natural, organic finishes,’ explains Shelley Cochrane, design expert at Furniture Village.
She continues: ‘Escape to far-flung destinations without even stepping foot outside your door with a travel-inspired way of life; relax on soft seating and retro recliners, styled alongside contemporary coffee tables and open shelving.’
(Image credit: Henry Clarke/Conde Nast via Getty Images)
What sets this style apart is its inviting take on eclectic interiors.
Shelley explains: ‘With a nod to influences from the 70s through to the modern day, the color palette too takes inspiration from across the globe including the olive groves of Spain to the coral reef of Australia. From wood and leather to earthenware, these organic finishes are a nod to nature and lend a rustic and relaxed feel whilst woven rugs and laid-back linens create texture and warmth.’
Luckily, it’s easy to recreate. Shelley advises: ‘The key is to gather an eclectic look that tells a story of adventure and memories; the neutral base is perfectly at home anywhere, yet you’ll never feel far from your global travels!’
Joan Didion’s writing transports her readers, just as images of her home do for their viewers. When it comes to sourcing design inspiration, looking back in time can be just as fruitful as browsing contemporary spaces.
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