Elevated Coastal Living
By Lisa Bakke Interiors
As summer approaches and schools wrap up their end-of-year semester, many families will head to the beach for much-anticipated relaxation, toes in the sand, and salt air. There is something so transforming about “chilling out” on vacation, spending time with our children and family in a beautifully decorated beach house, and slowing down the otherwise busy pace of life in the city.
Vacation homes are one of my favorite projects to collaborate on. I typically begin the design process with a clean slate, and all selections are refined down to the minutia of sheeting, bath linens, accessorizing, art, lighting, tile/hard surfaces, and furniture. I also coordinate the dining and service ware, linking every concept aspect together for an effortless and relaxed aesthetic. It’s a turnkey experience.
Of all the beach house styles, “Coastal” is my favorite. It was initially inspired by the lavish seaside homes found along the East Coast. These homes are luxurious in a comfortable and approachable way with a cohesive nautical concept of color and accents.
Nantucket and its wide range of blues and neutrals inspired me when considering the direction for this particular Palmilla residence.
When collaborating with clients, there are many points to examine and understand. Understanding how they will live in the space and what aspects of the design element are most important to them is critical. Once these guidelines have been established, we create the home they desire.
A few of the top design elements that are discussed most often are…
Coastal Inspired Colors More often than not, the ocean blues, warm sands, and sea-glass greens win. The smooth, polished Calcutta, gold marble, and the openness of this kitchen make you feel as if you can finally exhale into the abundance of French simplicity and airiness. The large, colorful Bettie Ward oil painting is whimsically reminiscent of life and abundance.
Natural Fiber Rugs Jute & sisal and woven natural blends are lovely ways to add texture to the space. This type of floor covering is forgiving, looks great, and is entirely at home in coastal decor.
Historic Elements Incorporating antiques and vintage pieces is a thoughtful way to add a sense of history, seemingly grounding the space while adding a story to the home.
Texture, Texture, Texture
Texture offers depth and interest. Think rattan, heavy linen, cool cotton, shiplap walls, wallpaper, natural wood elements, and natural stone. Implement performance fabrics with your furniture both indoors and out for worry-free maintenance.
It’s All in The Details
Consider a beautiful fabric lamp shade or add drapery to frame key windows, wicker baskets, and interesting mirrors. Avoid matching everything up. Display a range of unexpected elements.
Select furniture that is enduring and comfortable. Paint your porch ceiling a pale shade of blue with a hint of green.
Multi Use Sleeping Areas
Bunk rooms are a must in a vacation home. Multiple families coming together for a weekend at the beach is very common. Creating a bunk room that provides a gathering area for the younger set is essential. Sectionals, play stations, and a large TV for movie night offer children and teens their own space to gather.
Don’t Forget About Your Outdoor Spaces
Patios, fire pits, and pools. Treat these areas like your interior spaces, creating comfy, secondary living areas that invite visitors to come together, dine, rest, or gaze at the sea.
Need help figuring out where to begin? Hire a Professional Designer.
Peruse their portfolio; if you like what you see, schedule an appointment to discuss your needs and budget. Leave the details to your designer, and enjoy the process.
Design notes provided by Lisa Bakke Interiors. For over 15 years,
Lisa has designed homes in Texas’ central, coastal, and hill country regions.
LisaBakkeInteriors.com, design.Lisa@yahoo.com, 210-861-7798
Photography by Al Rendon
