It’s week #2 in our Style Series and today we feature the Beach House Style.  Whether your ultimate seaside retreat is a shingle-style bungalow on the Maine coast or a modern glass house in Malibu, there are certain key factors that give a home ”beach appeal.”  Let’s get started!

Effortless - I know it seems like an oxymoron, but it takes time to plan an effortless look.  The reward is an easy and welcoming home.  Some prefer light shades of blue and green; others prefer bold nautical looks, still others a totally white palette.  No matter which way you go, don’t get bogged down with lots of pattern or too many accessories.  Choose one item to be the standout in the room.

Consistent - It’s tempting to feature a bold new paint color in each room, but it can cause a choppy and indecisive look.  It’s best to put together a palette of pleasing colors and stick with it; or select one color you love and use it throughout your home. 

Fun - Being at the beach spurs pleasant memories of fun and relaxation.  Family photos, collections of shells and beach glass, and marine-life motifs keep it light-hearted.  Add lots of character to each room with bedding, accessories and artwork.

Shop for the Beach House Style on My Secret Database!

The weather has been a bit wacky across the country this week but the sun has been busting through and temps are rising.  Many readers are are pulling out the shorts and sunglasses with high hopes.  As I scan My Secret Database I am spying a lot of great Seashore related items.  Remember, the Beach House look is not purely seasonal.  Cobalt blue, Nautical themes and Slipcovers can blow some refreshing sea air into your home any time of year.  Let the season begin!

Explore My Secret Database with a Beach House twist!

Angela Adams says that her designs reflect the beauty of the Maine coast and she does a phenomenal job of backing up that claim. On first impulse I would not expect Maine to be a haven for modern design but her creativity as an artist who has a keen eye for interiors is evident.  The shapes and colors in her amazing rug designs reflect the beauty of nature with tranquil undertones.  She has a large selection in wool and additional designs in cotton as well as bedding and pillows.

I also appreciate that they are an affiliate of RugMark.  RugMark is working to end illegal child labor in the carpet industry and to offer educational opportunities to children in South Asia.  Good for your home and good for our world!

I love the Boatwood Mirror from VivaTerra with it’s beautiful washed out beachy hues. This mirror is decorated with wood panels from Thai fishing boats and the re-use of materials makes it eco-friendly. There is a history to that weathered patina and it gives it a lot of character. This would look great in your powder room or a mostly white bedroom that has accents of sea and sand.

I am a big fan of incorporating eco-friendly elements into interior design. I understand that Green and Eco-friendly is coming at you from all directions but I want to share some information with you that you might not be aware of. You know that antique table you inherited from your grandmother? And that cool watercolor painting you grabbed for $3 at the garage sale? What about the TV a friend gave you when they were moving?

I have great news for you, you are being eco-friendly and you did not even know it! Any time we can re-use, pass on, or trade items, we are doing the earth a favor. The name of the game is to avoid putting non-biodegradable items in landfills! If you cannot find a new home for an old item, donate it to Goodwill , The Salvation Army or Freecycle and don’t forget you can find great things there yourself. And it all goes to a good cause.