As summer approaches, many people dream of soaking up the sun and lounging around at the beach. While summer beach vacations usually revolve around the sun, sand and surf, it is still important to create a comfortable environment indoors. Whether it is a ten-room house or a for-rent cottage, the way a home at the beach looks can influence the overall vacation experience. The best way to start a beach house decorating project is to take cues from colors, textures and resources found outside.
Choose Durable, Easy-Care Materials For A Beach House
Living at the beach inevitably results in bringing the outdoors in, literally, thanks to sand, water and salty air. Make beach house clean up easier with smart decorating decisions that are pretty and practical.
- If possible, avoid carpet. Instead, go with wood or tile flooring. These surfaces will not trap sand or dirt, and they are easy to sweep clean.
- Lay sea grass (or other natural fiber) rugs in heavy traffic areas, even over carpet. These will prevent debris from coming in and hide what does.
- On furniture, opt for slipcovers in materials such as twill, denim or linen. Just throw them in the wash when needed.
Select A Calming Beach House Color Scheme
Deciding on colors is crucial for any decorating plan, but it really establishes a certain look for beach house living. Since coming to the beach is about fun and relaxation, avoid bright, bold color. Instead, choose a serene color palette that blends with the views outside.
- Paint walls white or cream to avoid competing with views and to help decorative accessories stand out.
- Give ceilings a coat of soft blue paint to imitate the sky.
- If using slipcovered furniture, buy white to reinforce a crisp, clean feel in the home.
- Use white shutters or sheer curtains on windows.
- Bring in accessories to add color. Blues, greens and even yellow are good options for pillows and art.
Decorating With A Beach Motif
After making big decorating decisions about floors, walls, furniture and color, it is time to have fun with little details. In a beach house, there is only one place to go for perfect inspiration – outside.
- Hot glue various sizes and shapes of shells to a simple mirror frame.
- Fill glass jars and bowls with additional shells for table centerpieces.
- Hang up a photograph of family taken by the water.
- Use pieces of white coral on shelves or a coffee table.
Decorating a beach house is easy when following the cues of nature. Simply look outside for inspiration.
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