Going Coastal: Eight Ways to Upgrade Your Summer Beach House

Unsure of what to do with those buckets of seashells? Stick ‘em on the wall for a graphic pattern that’s almost as interesting as the Prince painting in this Jamaica abode.

Skip the cluttered refrigerator door and take a cue from this Nantucket escape by displaying children’s artwork in a prominent way. Framed or not, imaginative pictures and paintings add color to white walls. Plus, they’ll forever be a reminder of memories of summers passed.

Red, white, and blue never goes out of style on the coast, and there’s no shortage of maritime relics (think: buoys and ship wheels) to transform into nautical décor. Here, old parachuting lines are used as a rope railing and a wooden ship model adds a seafaring touch.

Whether it’s whaling memorabilia (as shown in this Martha’s Vineyard home), old postage stamps, marine paintings, or vintage board games, find a spot to exhibit an obsession—it’s a built-in conversation starter.

Rainy days at the beach don’t have to be a wash. Occupy restless guests (read: kids) with fun crafts to later display around the home. In this Michigan home, hand-painted rocks are a colorful replacement to a guest book.

Dust off gift shop finds from bygone travels—they’ll add a bit whimsy to a coffee table or shelf, like the Hawaiian hula dancer in this Venice, California dwelling.

Whether it is with shelves made of discovered driftwood, or objects from the local vintage shop, show pride for the home-away-from-home with locally sourced novelties.

A little bit of pattern goes a long way. Printed textiles on pillows, tapestries, cushions, and bedspreads are an easy way to jazz up an otherwise simple room.