Going Coastal: Eight Ways to Upgrade Your Summer Beach House
Shell Out
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.
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Create an Art Gallery
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.
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Nautical is Nice
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.
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Curate Collectibles
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.
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Get Crafty
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.
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Embrace the Kitsch
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.
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Pay Homage
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.
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Source Interesting Textiles
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.