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Whether you’re right on the shore or miles from water, use these
decorating strategies to get this easygoing look.
1. VACATION INSPIRATION A novelty fabric can set the
mood. Use it for accents and as the base for a room’s color
scheme. In the Queallys’ living room,a seashell print pillow
establishes the beige background (upholstery, walls, rug) and the
accents of red (chairs, pillows, vases) and pale blue (drapes).
2. DO NT GO OVERBOARD Choose a small room or hallway
to carry out the beach house theme, but express it more subtly in
common living spaces. In the Queallys’ powder room, red-and-
white wallpaper with a lobster motif is paired with a porthole
mirror and lantern light fixture. White beaded board balances the
wall pattern without overwhelming the tiny space.
3. WASH IT WITH WAVES Colors pulled from the ocean bring
the vacation home feel to any room. Mix watery blues and greens
with woven textures, as the Queallys did with their slipcovered
sofa and needlepoint rug.
4. LIGHT THE WAY Light fixtures can put a historical mark on a
newer house. This reproduction cast-iron light in the Queallys’
fcyer is reminiscent of a boat lantern.
5. ADD WEATHERED CHARACTER Painted wood pieces
with a textured patina, such as this console table with a rough-
hewn surface, give a room a laid-back look.
6. LOSE THE RULES Beach house style is all about casual living
so don’t be too stria with the palette. Break up cool blues and
greens with shots of vivid reds and yellows (think of bold beach
umbrellas for inspiration). (S)
For buying information see page 232.
I 4 8 JUNE2008 BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS
