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Follow nature’s theme in design and life really can be a beach
If you’ve perused decorating magazines or gone shopping lately, you’ve undoubtedly noticed a major decorating trend toward coastal, or beach-themed décor. According to trend forecasters, people are decorating their homes in styles that make them feel as if they on vacation. Coastal décor is a big part of this trend. You’ll see shell-shaped candles, beach-themed art prints, and bedding with seashore motifs.
Some clients of mine have recently purchased the house of their dreams — a beautiful beach house on the Sonoma Coast. It truly is a sight to behold — breathtaking views from nearly every room in the house, a wonderful deck for peaceful contemplation, and all of the comforts of home.
While the house came furnished, I had the good fortune to be hired by them to add the finishing touches. Of course, ocean-themed accessories seemed appropriate, but we did not want to make the house a collection of kitschy accessories. Instead, we opted for a subtle beach house look. I did not want the décor to detract from the spectacular views, so I chose colors and accessories inspired by the outdoors.
There is something so calming about the ocean, so the colors I chose were calm also: cool shades of blue, with a little bit of turquoise, paired with white, tan and brown — think “sea and sand.” As you walk into my client’s living room, you are immediately struck by the ocean view out the large windows. The blue pillows on the window seat and sofa bring the colors of the ocean into the room. A few accessories adorn the built-in shelves — among the books, there is some driftwood, a carved wooden sea shell, and a small painting of some shells, made by their son. The overall look is casual, yet elegant and subtle.
If you would like to give your home a beach house makeover, try these tips:
- Slipcover your sofa in white cotton duck fabric — the look will be fresh and crisp. Don’t be intimidated by white, remember that slipcovers can be washed. Add throw pillows or floor cushions in shades of blue, tan and white.
- Paint the walls in a light sky blue.
- Add an area rug in a natural fiber like sea grass or sisal. Use the rug to define the seating area, and also support your outdoorsy theme.
- Pare down the knick-knacks — as I said, the ocean is calming; minimizing the accessories will help you create a calm feeling in your home. Try one large item on a shelf instead of crowding the shelf with lots of collectibles.
- Refrain from purchasing too many beach-themed accessories — a few are nice, as they help support the theme. Too many will make your room look like a souvenir shop.
- Fill a glass hurricane or large glass vase with sand, shells or beach glass to use as simple table decorations.
Since we in the Bay Area are lucky enough to live close to the ocean, take a day trip and become inspired.
This article first appeared in Alameda Newspaper
Group papers on July 7, 2007.
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All articles copyright 2003-2008 Anna
Jacoby.
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