About Beach-Style Decor

Beach-style decor brings images of sand and sea, shells and seaweed and offers an impression of a relaxed lifestyle where land meets the ocean. Beach-style decor ranges from tropical island to desert coastline themes. It may inspire memories of storm-washed rocks or satin smooth white beaches. Beaches are as varied as the countries they border, but the constant value is nature at the mingling of earth and water.

Long- or Short-Term Themes

Use beach-style decor for a few hours, a season or a lifetime. For the short term, beach party supplies set the tone for an outdoor summer party. A seasonal beach theme for an outdoor patio or deck provides an opportunity to bring out sand buckets and nautical deck furniture. An interior living room can look more open with the simple lines of a beachscape. Add a casual living beach accent to bedrooms or special interest area such as a kitchen or bathroom.

Beach Styles

Beach decor comes in many styles. Color and accents help define the theme. Desert or warm weather beach decor is created by light tan and eggshell colors with sky blue and aquamarine accents. Rugged or cool weather beach decor is rich in fog gray colors and forest greens. Island beach decor is centered on sand or earth colors with tropical trimmings such as palm trees, coconuts and exotic birds.

Atmosphere

The key to beach-style decor is an open area with simple design and minimal clutter. Beaches are swept by wind and water. Sand castles, car tracks and other signs of people are frequently washed or blown away. Beach decor usually reflects this simple landscape with easy maintenance and casual living. For the dedicated beach fan, windows may be open or a quiet ceiling fan circulates air to create the impression of ocean breezes.

Interior Design

The beach look is emphasized with walls in natural colors like eggshell, tan, foam green or blue. Floors, whether wood, stone or carpet, may be accented with plush bath rugs in sand and blue for changing shoes or pet napping zones. Wicker and bamboo furniture or sling-back beach chairs add an airy look. Fabric shower curtains in beach or seashell designs substitute for bedroom or kitchen curtains. Open shelves hold beachcomber objects or driftwood sculpture.

Accessorizing

Easy accents for beach decor include sand texture lamps, sailboat pictures and seashell accessories. Use favorite sport gear such as scuba masks and snorkels on hooks, a surfboard propped in a corner or fishing nets draped over a deck rail. Beach towels in fish or seaweed designs replace bath towels and provide casual throws for chairs and dog beds. Sand pails hold toys and other supplies. Beach-style decor is simple and offers a getaway feeling without leaving home.

Resources

• Margaritaville Retail
• Cyber Island Shops