Meghan Markle teased the launch of her new brand, American Riviera Orchard, with an Instagram account and website debut in March. While the details are still under wraps—Instagram account and website simply display the brand’s logo—American Riviera Orchard is rumored to be a home and lifestyle brand with trademark applications filed in multiple categories, including “cookbooks, tableware, coffee and tea services, jellies, jams, tablecloths, serving ware, cutlery, spreads of all kinds, and lots more,” according to TMZ.
Indeed, several Instagram posts by close friends of Markle seem to confirm that American Riviera Orchard will be selling jam, as they received PR baskets from the brand featuring jars of small-batch strawberry jam and fresh lemons.
"American Riviera” is a fond term for the Santa Barbara area where Meghan lives with Prince Harry and their two children. It's sunny beaches, laid-back sophistication, and lush, rolling vineyards have drawn comparisons to the French Riviera for over a century. So while the term American Riviera certainly isn’t new, the upcoming launch of Meghan’s new lifestyle brand has reinvigorated interest in the European-style aesthetic unique to the area.
Ahead of the brand’s official launch, we asked a few interior designers to share their tips on bringing the American Riviera aesthetic home. Here’s everything you need to know about nailing this quintessentially Californian look in your home decor.
What Is the American Riviera Aesthetic?
The American Riviera style is a fusion of Spanish and Mediterranean influences with a casual and laid-back edge typical of California. It is characterized by whitewashed plaster and stucco walls, terracotta, limestone, archways, wrought iron, wood accents, light and breezy color palettes, and plenty of natural fibers and materials. It’s coastal yet sophisticated, and deeply influenced by Spanish and Mediterranean architecture.
“Overall, the vibe is casual, elegant, and easy living," says Pamela Nast, founder and principal designer of Pamela Nast Interior Design. "Indoor and outdoor spaces are given equal attention as they are both frequently used. Gardens are well-tended, and roses are abundant as they grow easily in the coastal climate."
DAVID TSAY
How to Get the Look at Home
If you're looking to bring the American Riviera aesthetic to your home decor, keep these factors in mind.
Focus on the Color Palette
Designers say that colors, textures, and materials are crucial to nailing the American Riviera aesthetic. Off-whites, terracotta tones, and earthy greens and blues are the hallmarks of this style. Black accents (usually through wrought-iron details) and medium wood tones are also plentiful. Stick to natural tones and keep the color palette light and airy.
“Layer in warm neutral textures—it helps balance the space and keeps it from feeling sterile with the light color palette,” says Gabriela Eisenhart, founder of the interior design firm Silo Studios.
Incorporate Natural Materials
Invite the outdoors in by incorporating plenty of natural materials into your home decor. Think wood, stone, fired clay, rattan, and natural fibers like linen. “Mix in coastal-inspired elements like wood, rattan, and stone as well as Mediterranean influences such as terracotta, iron, and arched architecture,” Eisenhart suggests.
Eisenhart recommends accenting your space with lush greenery as well. Large indoor trees and potted plants are a staple of this aesthetic. That said, stick to just a few plants rather than going overboard and opt for species typical of the California and Mediterranean regions. Citrus trees, olive trees, cacti, and herbs like lavender are all great choices.
Less is More
Maximalism is having a moment lately, but when it comes to this aesthetic, the decor style leans more minimalist. Embrace the less-is-more mantra to keep things feeling sophisticated and airy. A few pieces of well-chosen decor will go a long way with this look.
Invite Quiet Luxury
Striking the right balance between sophisticated and casual is a big part of achieving the American Riviera aesthetic in your home decor. The goal is to infuse your space with that iconic and timeless luxurious Mediterranean flair. “Create casual sophistication with comfortable furniture and relaxed silhouettes. Think plush sofas in casual linen fabrics and natural woven rugs,” Eisenhart suggests.