Modern Spanish Style Interior Design
There’s something undeniably magical about a Spanish style home. The curved archways, dark wood tones, natural textures, and sun-soaked palette feel equal parts elegant and earthy. When done well, it’s a design style that radiates warmth, romance, and a little bit of old-world charm. But what happens when you blend those traditional Spanish revival elements with a more modern design sensibility? You get a space that is rooted in history yet feels fresh, approachable, and incredibly chic.
Modern Spanish style interior design is one of our favorite ways to make a home feel welcoming and visually captivating. By marrying rustic materials with sleek lines and a neutral palette, you can create a home that feels grounded and sophisticated all at once. Today, we’re sharing a roundup of ideas to help you capture that modern Spanish look while making it your own.
What Is Modern Spanish Style Interior Design
From our Villa Secreta Project
Modern Spanish style interior design blends traditional Spanish architecture with modern aesthetics to create a timeless and livable space. Think: arched doorways, terracotta tiles, and iron light fixtures softened with clean lines, minimal clutter, and modern furniture silhouettes.
This design style emphasizes natural materials like wood, stone, leather, and clay. You’ll often see plaster walls, carved wood ceiling beams, and patterned tile as focal points. It’s layered, but not busy. Rich, but never overwhelming.
What we love most about this style is its ability to feel soulful yet updated. A well-designed modern Spanish interior feels like it has a story to tell—one that’s steeped in tradition but very much alive in the present.
How To Modernize A Spanish Style Home Interior
Use a Neutral Color Palette
Let the architecture speak for itself by embracing soft, earthy tones. Think whites, warm taupes, muted terracottas, and subtle charcoals. These colors allow the natural materials to shine and keep your space feeling fresh.
From our Villa Serenidad Project
Layer in Clean-Lined Furniture
Balance ornate Spanish details with furniture that has clean lines and modern silhouettes. A sleek linen sofa or a minimalist oak dining table can provide beautiful contrast to more traditional architectural elements.
From our Villa Secreta Project
Mix Old and New
Don’t be afraid to pair vintage Spanish design pieces—like wrought iron sconces or a carved wood mirror—with contemporary lighting or abstract art. This creates visual interest and keeps your space feeling curated, not themed.
From our Villa Secreta Project
Simplify the Accessories
Modern Spanish design leans more minimalist. Instead of cluttered surfaces, opt for a few high-quality pieces that add texture or tell a story. A hand-thrown vase or woven basket goes much further than over-accessorizing.
From our Villa Secreta Project
Incorporate Black Accents
Matte black fixtures or window frames add a bold, modern touch that complements the warmth of traditional Spanish interiors. They act like eyeliner for your space—defining the architecture without overpowering it.
From our Villa Serenidad Project
Modern Spanish Interior Design Ideas
1. Arched Entryways & Doorframes
Nothing says Spanish revival quite like a beautiful arch. These curved forms instantly add charm and softness. Highlight them with a fresh coat of warm white paint or frame them with reclaimed wood for an added layer of depth.
From our home, Casa Pura
2. Terracotta & Patterned Tile Moments
Patterned tile is a key design element in Spanish style homes—use it in a powder bathroom, on stair risers, or even as a fireplace surround. Terracotta tiles in the kitchen or entryway add authenticity and earthy texture.
From our Villa Secreta Project
3. Dark Wood Ceiling Beams
Exposed wood ceiling beams are the ultimate statement in a Spanish style living room or dining room. If your home doesn’t have original beams, consider adding faux beams to bring that rustic charm in.
From our Villa Serenidad Project
4. Modern Light Fixtures
Wrought iron chandeliers or lantern pendants are classic, but updating the shape or finish can modernize the look. Opt for simplified forms with a matte finish to stay true to the style while keeping things current.
5. Arched Niches & Built-ins
Create cozy, intentional spaces with arched niches or custom built-ins. Style them with handmade ceramics, old books, or greenery. Speaking of greenery—don’t forget to check out our list of the best plants for a healthy home to add life and movement to your design.
Our home, Casa Pura, when Primary Bedroom Built-Ins were being created.
Casa Pura Primary Built-In’s prior to paint and drawers.
6. Plaster or Tadelakt Walls
Plaster or tadelakt wall finishes give off a subtle texture that looks high-end but feels organic. The soft movement of these finishes pairs perfectly with both traditional Spanish architecture and modern furniture.
Lime plaster exterior of shower at our home, Casa Pura.
7. Natural Material Mix
Lean into raw textures like linen, leather, rattan, and reclaimed wood. These natural materials are not only beautiful, they help the home feel warm and grounded.
From our Villa Secreta Project
8. Cozy Courtyard or Indoor-Outdoor Flow
Spanish architecture often includes outdoor courtyards or patios. If you have one, lean into it! Add comfortable seating, patterned tiles, and hanging lanterns to create an extension of your living space.
From our Villa Secreta Project
9. Minimal but Soulful Decor
You don’t need a ton of accessories to create a mood. A few soulful, artisan-made pieces go a long way in adding richness and character. I love to add soul with bespoke tile.
From our Villa Serenidad Project
10. A Room That Tells a Story
Every Spanish style home should have a room that surprises and delights. Whether it’s a moody library, a sun-drenched breakfast nook, or a romantic guest room, pick a spot that lets your personality shine through. If you're unsure where to start, read our blog post on why interior design matters.
First dinner party in our library/dining room 2 weeks after we moved into Casa Pura.
I added an unexpected library and made it into a dining room. I also just created a beautiful 6-bed garden in a nook of my yard that was previously unused. I love adding unexpected, romantic touches wherever I can. It makes my home feel storied.
Spanish style homes are timeless, and when updated with thoughtful modern touches, they become even more captivating. Whether you’re renovating an older Spanish revival property or simply want to infuse your modern interior with a bit of Mediterranean magic, these tips will help you create a space that feels elevated, soulful, and uniquely yours.
So, what are your favorite elements of modern Spanish design? Share in the comments below!