Barbara Palvin's front porch is a masterclass in this Southern European trend – its historical roots are anything but dated

The model's combination of Azulejo and terracotta tiling on her front steps perfect an escapist aesthetic that celebrates beautiful, natural elements

Barbara Palvin
(Image credit: Photo by Stephane Cardinale - Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images)

The Spanish revival trend evokes a charming yet traditional feel within the home, but we are also huge fans of this design style outside of the home.

Case in point: model Barbara Palvin's front porch, which combines Azulejo and terracotta tiling on the steps. We love how the flooring contrasts the white-painted home exterior, along with the green window, proving that the Spanish revival trend is as versatile as it is trendy.

According to experts, incorporating the Spanish revival trend into the outside of a home is a fantastic way to create an oasis in the front or back of a property.

'Spanish revival homes often feature courtyards or outdoor living spaces, which offer yet another opportunity to get playful with bold accents,' says designer Nina Lichtenstein. 'A set of cobalt blue outdoor dining chairs around a rustic wooden table, or vibrant blue and white patterned cushions scattered across a tiled patio, can inject a sense of fun and energy into the outdoor area without detracting from the home’s architectural integrity.'

Lichtenstein continues, 'Additionally, consider incorporating blue planters or ceramic pots to introduce color while staying true to the natural, earthy feel of a Spanish revival garden. These accents not only add personality but also echo the Mediterranean roots of the aesthetic, where blue is often found in both indoor and outdoor spaces.'

When implementing Spanish revival-inspired decor inside the home, however, Lichtenstein says that accents are key to keeping the design feel cohesive.

'When introducing bold elements like blue furniture, it’s important to keep the foundation of the room true to the Spanish revival aesthetic,' she says. 'Arched doorways, wrought iron detailing, and terracotta tiles are hallmarks of this style and provide a rich, textural backdrop for bolder accents to shine. Incorporating blue into the furniture or decor—whether in the form of a statement armchair, striking dining chairs, or a large blue area rug—allows these features to pop against the otherwise neutral, warm palette. For instance, a blue accent wall can act as a dramatic focal point behind a classic wrought iron bed frame or exposed wooden beams. The contrast between the cool tones of the blue and the warmth of the traditional materials creates a dynamic and engaging space that feels both timeless and playful.'

beige porch with colorful artwork on wall

(Image credit: Nadia Watts Interior Design, photography Emily Minton-Redfield)

Finally, consider the natural materials that are a core component of Spanish revival design, and how they can best fit into (or outside of) your home. Tiling for a porch is a natural fit, Lichtenstein explains.

'At its core, Spanish revival design celebrates craftsmanship, artistry, and the connection between indoors and outdoors, all while fostering a sense of warmth and welcoming,' she states. 'To keep this spirit alive while adding playful accents, it’s important to honor the architectural details and artisanal touches that define the style. By pairing bold colors and modern elements with the traditional materials and textures, you can achieve a space that feels refreshed yet rooted in its history.'

She continues, 'A nature-inspired design approach also plays into this idea—integrating natural materials like wood, terracotta, and wrought iron with vibrant, playful accents creates harmony between the old-world charm of the Spanish revival aesthetic and the lively energy of modern design. The result is a home that feels alive, full of character, and reflective of the beauty in both tradition and innovation.'


Shop H&G's Spanish Revival Edit


We recommend selecting a unique set of tiles that speaks to you and your design sensibilities; the beauty of azulejo tiles is that they vary in pattern, color, and texture, so get experimental.


Hannah Ziegler
News Editor

Hannah is Homes & Gardens’ News Editor, with a focus on celebrity style and entertainment content. She got her start in media as a digital editorial assistant at ELLE Canada, and has since written about lifestyle and culture for publications such as Nylon and i-D.

Her love of film is rivalled only by one with a great soundtrack, and she hopes to someday decorate a Nancy Meyers-worthy kitchen.