The Mr. C Coconut Grove Hotel in Miami Is Inspired by Nautical Aesthetics

The nautical design trend has experienced a significant resurgence in New York City, moving beyond seasonal appeal to become a year-round sophisticated style. This shift is exemplified by establishments such as The Yacht Club, a 20,000-square-foot Chelsea restaurant designed by hospitality group Crew, and Alfredo Paredes Studio's work on the Fort Greene restaurant Sailor. Designers are increasingly focusing on the fundamental principles of maritime design—durability, craftsmanship, and the creation of intimate, protective spaces—rather than relying on superficial clichés like anchors and life preservers. Eric Cheong of North 45 Projects, who collaborated on The Yacht Club, emphasizes the enduring nature of nautical style, attributing its longevity to its historical significance and functional integrity. Alfredo Paredes, reflecting on his design for Sailor, notes the adaptability of maritime design, advocating for an approach that draws inspiration from the surrounding environment. Gabriel Stulman, co-founder of Sailor, conceived the restaurant as a personal reminder of his aspiration to live by the water, working with Paredes to translate this vision into a tangible space. The genesis of this modern nautical movement in New York can be traced back to 2014 with the opening of Grand Banks, an oyster bar situated on a restored 1942 schooner. Initially, its founders, Alex and Miles Pincus of Crew, anticipated it would be a seasonal operation. However, the unexpected success and the discovery of the timelessness inherent in maritime materials like brass hardware, zinc bars, and tropical hardwoods, led them to maintain its presence in New York from April to October. These materials, originally chosen for their resilience in harsh marine environments, imbue spaces with a sense of enduring quality. Grand Banks' success paved the way for other maritime-inspired venues, including Holywater, Crew's Tribeca oyster bar, which was intentionally designed for winter appeal. Its dark wood paneling, low lighting, and intimate scale evoke the cozy, protective atmosphere of a ship's cabin, making it particularly inviting during colder months. Loren Daye of Love is Enough studio, who worked on Crew's New Orleans restaurant Seaworthy, highlights that boat design is fundamentally about creating shelter from the elements, a quality that translates into alluring indoor spaces. The distinction between sophisticated nautical design and thematic kitsch lies in the thoughtful selection of materials and an authentic approach to maritime heritage. St. John Frizell, owner of The Sunken Harbor Club, aimed for an explorer’s club ambiance, utilizing dark wood and brass to emulate the interior of a sunken ship. Similarly, Aron Watman, owner of The Folly, a West Village bar, avoided superficial decorations, opting instead for an 18th-century British naval vibe, evident in the bar's low ceilings and genuine nautical artifacts like old steamer trunks and glass fishing floats. The article concludes by noting the ongoing challenge for designers to steer clear of cliché, emphasizing the meticulous effort required to achieve an authentic and sophisticated nautical aesthetic. #NauticalDesign #NewYorkHospitality #InteriorDesignTrends #MaritimeAesthetics #RestaurantDesign #YearRoundDesign #DesignMaterials #TimelessDesign

Nantucket, known for its traditional visual appeal, has recently seen a refreshing take on its classic nautical style with the opening of a new Life House hotel. Hotelier Rami Zeidan, in collaboration with vice president of design Jenny Bukovec, has introduced a contemporary interpretation of nautical design that departs from the usual maritime stripes and oceanic color palettes. This new approach embraces moodier, more eclectic aesthetics, favoring jewel tones over seafoam greens and sky blues. Bukovec's design philosophy focuses on integrating these modern nautical elements into any living space, beginning with the strategic use of color on moldings. Instead of traditional white, she advocates for unexpected hues like warm charcoal, dusty jade, and beach blossom plum to create contrast and highlight subtle textures. These darker colors draw the eye, emphasizing architectural details and complementary elements such as raffia wall coverings, handwoven coastal grass fiber headboards, and floral ceramic tiles. Another key aspect of this updated nautical design is the shift from classic stripes to botanical patterns. While acknowledging the appeal of stripes, Bukovec suggests incorporating playful floral upholstery, artwork, and light fixtures to prevent a monotonous feel. She stresses the importance of choosing locally rooted flora for botanical prints to ensure an intentional and timeless look, rather than something that might quickly become dated. When stripes are used, they are given a creative twist, such as two-tone creme sheer drapery, rather than being the dominant pattern on furniture. The hotel's design also reinterprets the use of rattan and woven fibers. Instead of traditional white wicker, natural rattan pieces and handwoven sisal fibers are employed, drawing inspiration from natural driftwood. This approach brings a sense of nonchalance to outdoor spaces, with whites reintroduced through textures like fringed umbrellas or concrete planters. Finally, Bukovec addresses the modernization of wood paneling. She advises against covering original wood paneling with paint, as it can obscure the natural elements that are integral to a coastal landscape. In the communal kitchen, for example, cedar planks were left exposed. To add a contemporary touch, a fish scale-style floor tile in black was installed, moving away from overtly nautical themes. Mauve countertops, punchy patterns, and vintage framed photography were layered in to prevent the space from becoming too serious and to honor the history of the 200-year-old home, effectively blending historical elements with modern design sensibilities. #NauticalDesign #HotelInteriorDesign #ModernNautical #NantucketStyle #InteriorDecor #HomeDesignTrends #DesignInspiration #ColorPalette #ArchitecturalDetails

Cruise ship bathrooms, particularly the showers, have historically been a point of discomfort for many passengers due to their cramped, tube-like design. These older showers often featured curved plastic doors or, even worse, fabric curtains that clung to the bather and failed to contain water, leading to flooded bathrooms. The limited space made for an unenjoyable experience, especially for taller individuals. This long-standing design challenge has finally been addressed by Royal Caribbean, beginning with its latest vessel, Icon of the Seas. The Icon of the Seas, being the inaugural ship of its class, served as a "white paper" project, allowing for a complete rethinking of every design aspect, including cabin interiors and, specifically, the bathroom showers. The new shower design introduced on Icon of the Seas represents a significant departure from previous models. It abandons the traditional capsule shape in favor of a more spacious, rectangular layout that spans the width of the bathroom. This updated configuration features floor-to-ceiling glass panels and a glass door that maneuvers inward and sideways, optimizing space within the bathroom. A notable enhancement is the inclusion of a built-in bench within the shower, providing both comfort and functionality. This level of spaciousness and design quality was previously exclusive to suite cabins on Royal Caribbean ships, making its inclusion in standard cabins a considerable upgrade for the average passenger. Further improvements include an adjustable shower head, which can be effortlessly slid up or down a pole to accommodate users of different heights. This adjustment is facilitated by a black release button on the back of the showerhead arm. The temperature control mechanism has also been refined. While it initially limits the water temperature to 38°C (100°F) for safety, there is an override button—a black button on the left—that allows users to exceed this limit for hotter showers, addressing initial misconceptions about water temperature on the new ship. Personal experiences on Star of the Seas, another ship featuring this new design, confirm the positive impact of these changes on the shower experience. The article contrasts these innovations with the problematic showers found on older ships, such as those in the Radiance, Vision, and some Voyager Class. These older showers, with their fabric curtains, are described as particularly inconvenient, prone to flooding the bathroom, and having an unpleasant tendency to cling to the bather. The sentiment is that anyone who has experienced these older designs would appreciate the improvements. This trend towards more comfortable and aesthetically pleasing cruise ship bathrooms is not exclusive to Royal Caribbean. Carnival Cruise Line has also begun to implement similar design changes on its newer ships. For example, the Carnival Jubilee features a spacious, walk-in shower with a glass door, mirroring the improvements seen on Royal Caribbean's latest vessels. This indicates a broader industry shift towards enhancing the standard cabin experience, with improved shower design being a key component. The evolution of cruise ship showers from cramped, often frustrating spaces to more luxurious and functional areas marks a significant step forward in passenger comfort and overall cruise experience. #CruiseShipDesign #CabinImprovements #RoyalCaribbean #IconOfTheSeas #CruiseTravel #BathroomInnovation #PassengerComfort #StarOfTheSeas #CarnivalJubilee

Casadonna, a new Miami restaurant, introduces the ambiance of the Italian Riviera to Biscayne Bay. This 20,000-square-foot culinary establishment occupies the lower levels of the historic Miami Women’s Club building in the Edgewater neighborhood. Originally designed by August Geiger and opened in 1926, the building, which once served as one of Florida's first public libraries, was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974. Despite its historical significance, the structure eventually deteriorated until it was acquired by Groot Hospitality founder David Grutman and Tao Group Hospitality co-CEO Noah Tepperberg. Designer Ken Fulk was commissioned to revitalize the dilapidated lower levels of the 97-year-old building, transforming it into a vibrant modern restaurant. This project marks the first collaboration between Grutman and Tepperberg. The design approach focused on preserving the original character of the building while adapting it for its new function. The name 'Casadonna,' meaning 'house of women' in Italian, influenced Fulk's decision to implement a 'grand palazzo' aesthetic throughout the interiors. The restaurant's color scheme prominently features a classic Miami palette of pinks and aqua shades. Diners enter through a courtyard equipped with a retractable roof and a bar adorned with antique mirrors and overhead glowing lanterns. The building's original towering arched windows, initially painted aqua blue, have been restored, and their color is echoed in the dining room and lounge areas. Each of these spaces is designed with a distinct atmosphere. The Garden Dining Room is characterized by geometric, terracotta floor tiles and textured plaster walls. These walls display a collection of artworks and historical photographs of the Women’s Club, chronicling its history. The banquette seating is upholstered with a unique 'Floridian' design featuring local flora and fauna, adding a distinctive touch. The Loggia Dining Room, designed to evoke a grand palazzo, features coffered ceilings from which a large Murano glass chandelier, created by Fabio Ltd., hangs. The dining chairs, designed by Fulk, are upholstered in various fabrics and draw inspiration from an 'Old Havana' style. The Ocean Bar and Lounge offers an al fresco dining and drinking experience. Landscape architect Raymond Jungles strategically planted native trees and plants to frame views of the bay and screen adjacent buildings. This area also incorporates elements reminiscent of Old Havana, with midcentury modern sofas, rattan armchairs, and simple stone-topped tables. Casadonna’s extensive menu specializes in dishes from the Italian Riviera, emphasizing fresh seafood and seasonal ingredients, and showcasing traditional recipes from Southern coastal towns such as Naples, Taormina, Bari, Positano, and Gaeta. The restaurant is located at 1737 N Bayshore Drive, Miami, FL 33132, USA. #MiamiRestaurant #KenFulk #ItalianRiviera #HistoricPreservation #InteriorDesign #EdgewaterMiami #LuxuryDining #HospitalityDesign

The article showcases the Miami bungalow of entrepreneur Chelsea Hirschhorn, designed by Monica Santayana and Ronald Alvarez of MONIOMI Design. The property, a four-bedroom, four-bathroom bungalow spanning 3,250 square feet, primarily functions as a guest house and a private retreat for Hirschhorn. The design brief emphasized capturing a subtle, beach-inspired atmosphere while allowing the designers creative freedom to incorporate Hirschhorn's colorful outlook. The entryway sets a vibrant mood with a textural blue lime wash wall, formal paneling, and grasscloth wallpaper. A vintage Mario Lopez Torres monkey table introduces a whimsical element. The great room is designed for versatility, featuring lounge-style seating for guests and play areas for children. A centrally located sofa offers 360-degree seating, adapting to various activities. Additional features in the great room include a custom pool table, a hand sconce by Chris Wolston, and chairs from Joyful Objects, Yes! The article also mentions a foosball table, a Brent Warr floor lamp, and Elitis drapery. In the guest wing, the hallway features a 3D raffia wallcovering from CMO Paris, intended to create an unexpected and playful design element. The kitchen maintains an oceanic color scheme with custom light blue cabinetry accented with gray, complemented by mint quartzite countertops and backsplash. Custom light wood shelving displays seashell art and houses a candy bar. The primary bedroom serves as a personal retreat and a 'glam room,' incorporating plum tones and textured details like a fluted wall. Furnishings include a custom headboard in Lee Jofa fabric, a custom sofa, and pieces from Lukas Wegwerth and 1stDibs. The room also features a L’aviva ceiling light, Hodsoll Mackenzie curtains, and a Jeremy Anderson floor lamp. Another guest bedroom embraces a warm and inviting atmosphere with saturated mustard yellow tones, ceiling wallpaper from Arte, and Phillip Jeffries wallpaper. Custom pieces include the bed and sconces. The kids' room stimulates imagination with Gucci’s heron wallpaper and incorporates rattan accents. The bunk room, designed for hosting family and friends, is saturated in teal, offering a bold and personalized feel. The primary bathroom, while connected to the bedroom's color scheme, provides a serene space with a lighter palette, Elitis wallpaper, and a Lindsey Adelman ceiling light. The guest bathroom, connecting the guest bedroom and bunk room, shimmers with a mother-of-pearl checkered wallcovering from Elitis, along with mirrors from Assembly Line and Gessi faucets. MONIOMI Design, an award-winning Miami-based firm led by Monica Santayana and Ronald Alvarez, specializes in luxury residential and commercial interiors with an eclectic and bold approach. They also have a bespoke furnishings brand, MADE by MONIOMI. The article highlights how the designers successfully blended functionality with a unique, whimsical, yet elevated aesthetic, deviating from traditional beach house decor to create a distinctive living space. #InteriorDesign #MiamiBungalow #MONIOMIDesign #HomeDecor #CoastalLiving #LuxuryInteriors #ColorSchemes #GuestHouse

This article explores the diverse interpretations of beach and coastal decor across five distinct American coastal cities: Palm Beach, Martha's Vineyard, San Francisco, Malibu, and Charleston. While beach decor is often characterized by ocean-blue hues and seashell flourishes, coastal style is presented as far from monolithic, with each region adapting it to its unique cultural and environmental context. In Palm Beach, the design aesthetic is heavily influenced by British Colonial style, creating a perpetual vacation and sanctuary atmosphere. Designers like Mimi Kemble emphasize integrating indoor and outdoor living through tropical colors such as green, ocean blue, creamy sand white, and sunset coral. Natural elements like tortoise-shelled bamboo are used for framing, complementing dark floors and furniture against creamy walls, reflecting a blend of Florida's lush outdoors with British colonial elegance. Martha's Vineyard exemplifies an elegant yet practical design approach for the Northeast coast. Interior designer Mark Cunningham's work on a family vacation home highlights a clean aesthetic and welcoming appeal. The design features cool, refined hues, with pale blue cotton and sand-hued sisal rugs grounding the elements. Lalique vases mimic ocean water, and crisp art pieces evoke New England architecture. The use of lacquer coffee tables, soft linen prints, and white-washed wicker furniture underscores the straightforward practicality inherent to this coastal style. San Francisco's beach decor distinguishes itself from typical beach towns due to its unique landscape of Victorian houses, imposing cliffs, and pervasive fog. Designer Ken Fulk notes that seaside interiors in San Francisco must complement the often grand views rather than relying on quaint beach cottage aesthetics. Fulk embraced the home's Moorish revival architecture, using a fresh, modern palette. For instance, pale lavender Venetian plaster walls in the master bedroom echo the enriching fog, and handmade gold tiles in the master bath shimmer like sunlight on water, while coastal decor elements like coral lamps are used thoughtfully and exuberantly. Malibu's coastal decor transcends common stereotypes of surf culture, incorporating more sophisticated and quietly elegant stylistic influences. Los Angeles-based designer Madeline Stuart’s approach for a particular home combined subtle color palettes to avoid distracting from the stunning ocean views, alongside classic European influences. The design draws inspiration from classic rural farmhouses of southern France, utilizing bleached oak for doors, beams, and floors, and plastered walls with integral color. The palette for backgrounds and furnishings respectfully defers to Mother Nature, emphasizing harmony with the Pacific Ocean and the undulating coastline. Charleston's coastal design reflects its pre-Civil War heritage, characterized by cobblestone streets, pastel houses, and a French Quarter. This style blends French influences with traditional Southern outdoor living. Interior designer Suzanne Kasler’s work illustrates an open living room that invites relaxation, with the indoors seamlessly blending with the outdoors through French doors and wide, wraparound porches. Natural materials such as wood, wicker, jute, and linen are frequently used in blues, whites, and sand colors, along with comfortable slip-covered furniture, enhancing the breezy and elegant atmosphere. #BeachDecor #CoastalDesign #InteriorDesign #PalmBeachStyle #MarthasVineyard #SanFranciscoDecor #MalibuDesign #CharlestonStyle #HomeDecorTrends

The Fleming Hotel, a boutique establishment in Hong Kong, underwent a significant redesign and rebrand by A Work of Substance, transforming a 1970s building into a modern hotel deeply inspired by the city's maritime and industrial heritage. The primary inspiration for this transformation was the Star Ferry, an iconic symbol of Hong Kong's cultural landscape. This influence is evident throughout the hotel's interior design, notably in the strategic use of carmine reds and bottle greens. These specific hues pay homage to the color palettes commonly observed on Hong Kong's ferries, traditional fishing boats, local delivery trucks, and revered temples, thereby embedding a strong sense of local identity and history into the aesthetic. Upon entering The Fleming, guests are immediately immersed in an atmosphere reminiscent of a ship, subtly blurring the lines between a hotel and a vessel. This maritime ambiance is reinforced through various nautical elements seamlessly integrated into the design, such as distinctive signage that guides guests through the premises. While common areas like hallways feature a more subdued lighting scheme, the guest rooms are designed to be bright and airy, thanks to large windows that allow ample natural light. Complementing these windows are custom light fixtures, intricately detailed with brass elements, which serve as a nod to Hong Kong's rich industrial past, blending historical reverence with contemporary design. The hotel offers a range of room sizes, each meticulously designed to maintain the overarching theme while ensuring comfort and functionality. The custom-designed furniture and lighting fixtures throughout the hotel further emphasize the unique blend of maritime and industrial influences, creating a cohesive and immersive experience for guests. Bathrooms in The Fleming are stocked with Shen Nong apothecary-inspired toiletries, featuring nostalgic scents of sandalwood and amber. These bespoke amenities add an authentic touch, enhancing the sensory experience and connecting guests with local traditions. Adding to the hotel's appeal is Osteria Marzia, an Italian restaurant operated by the Black Sheep Restaurant group, conveniently located adjacent to the hotel's entrance. The restaurant's menu features Italian cuisine with flavors inspired by various seaside cities, further complementing the hotel's maritime theme. The exterior of The Fleming is thoughtfully designed with custom nautical fixtures that illuminate the facade, evoking the image of a dockside shack and reinforcing the hotel's unique character from the moment of arrival. The Fleming Hotel offers more than just accommodation; it provides an immersive cultural experience. With rooms starting at approximately $183 per night, it caters to travelers seeking a deep connection with Hong Kong's history and character. The design, with its brooding yet welcoming ambiance, is tailored for those who desire not merely a place to sleep but an encounter that narrates Hong Kong's past and present through its sophisticated and evocative interiors. The comprehensive redesign by A Work of Substance successfully marries historical homage with modern luxury, creating a distinctive urban retreat. #HotelDesign #HongKongCulture #MaritimeInspired #IndustrialAesthetic #BoutiqueHotel #InteriorDesign #AWorkOfSubstance #StarFerryInfluence #UrbanHotel

The Marriott Marquis Dubai, located in the Al Khor area of Dubai, has been lauded as the ‘Jewel of the Creek’ due to its exceptional interior design that harmoniously blends the rich cultural heritage of its location with contemporary luxury. Spearheaded by the KCA design team, the hotel's aesthetic reflects a fusion of tradition and modernity, creating an immersive experience deeply connected to its historical roots. The hotel's interior design draws significant inspiration from its setting in the Creek area. This thematic influence is consistently woven throughout the design elements, establishing a cohesive and immersive environment for guests. A key aspect of the design involves paying homage to the local heritage by integrating traditional Emirati elements in a contemporary fashion. For instance, the main lobby features intricately designed screens behind the reception desks, which are crafted to mimic the fishing nets historically used in Al Khor. The reception desks themselves are constructed from metal with an embossed pattern that reflects the map of the creek, providing both a historical anchor and a visually striking focal point upon arrival. Innovation in space planning and material selection is evident throughout the Marriott Marquis Dubai. The lobby's flooring incorporates concentric circles, designed to emulate the ripples of the creek's water, interspersed with modern, abstract Emirati patterns. This creates a dynamic visual narrative that guides guests through the space. A notable feature in the lobby is a large, dropped carpet that transitions from a mosaic to a real carpet, extending under the lobby lounge area. This design choice adds texture and depth while symbolizing the seamless integration of art and functionality. The thoughtful use of materials is further highlighted in the guestrooms, where timber beams cast shadows reminiscent of old Dubai houses, contributing to an innovative design approach. The design narrative extends into the guestrooms, where subtle references to Emirati heritage are seamlessly blended with modern luxury. Wall panels and AC grills feature traditional patterns reinterpreted in a contemporary style, ensuring a sense of continuity throughout the hotel. The guestrooms also boast an open ceiling above the bed with timber beams that, combined with cove lighting, create beautiful shadows, enhancing the ambiance and fostering a warm, inviting atmosphere. The sitting area is framed by a feature wall that mimics the ropes used for fishing boats in the creek, adding a layer of cultural richness and historical context. Overall, the Marriott Marquis Dubai offers a unique and memorable guest experience through its meticulously integrated design elements. These elements create an immersive environment that is both visually stunning and deeply connected to the local heritage. The combination of innovative space planning, cultural integration, and attention to detail ensures that each guest's stay is not only comfortable but also enriched with a strong sense of place and history. The hotel stands as a testament to exceptional interior design, effectively blending heritage-inspired elements with modern luxury in an innovative manner. This project, completed by the KCA team after years of delays, exemplifies the studio's commitment to cultural integration, sustainability, and enhancing guest experiences, thereby significantly enriching the KCA portfolio. #HotelDesign #LuxuryHospitality #EmiratiHeritage #InteriorDesign #DubaiArchitecture #KCAInternational #CulturalIntegration #InnovativeDesign #MarriottMarquis

This article features an interview with Cristiano Gatto, the interior designer for Heesen Yachts' Project Altea, a 50-meter all-aluminium superyacht priced at nearly €36 million, with delivery scheduled for May 2021. Gatto, who trained as a sculptor, approaches yacht design with a focus on blending aesthetics and function, viewing each project as a sculpture refined to the smallest detail, incorporating curves, lines, lighting, and patterns to achieve the final result. The process of styling a yacht's interior varies depending on whether it's a fully custom or semi-custom project. For fully custom projects, Gatto collaborates closely with the owner, translating their ideas and emotions into a feasible design over many months. For semi-custom projects like Project Altea, the approach involves anticipating future clients' desires and creating a versatile design that allows for customization without significantly impacting the advanced construction stage. A 50-meter project, from concept to delivery, typically involves approximately 50 to 60 people. The primary brief for Project Altea was to create a yacht with a distinct personality, catering to the lifestyle expectations of 2021, while building upon the experiences gained from its sister ships, “Home” and “Electra.” The goal was to develop a warm and welcoming ambiance, a cocoon where occupants feel pampered and protected. This was achieved through interior design choices such as soft, curvy lines for furnishings and surfaces, a palette of soft colors, and a meticulous selection of materials like wood, various textures, fabrics, and upholsteries to foster a calm and relaxing atmosphere throughout the vessel. One of the main challenges for Project Altea was to imbue it with a new soul and unique interior approach, despite sharing a similar exterior design with its predecessors. Gatto emphasized the importance of ensuring Altea was not a mere replication but a distinct entity. During construction, Gatto maintains a close collaboration with Heesen's team, relying on their organizational structure for quality control and adherence to a tight schedule. This involves numerous meetings to meticulously select materials such as marble and wood, ensuring high-spec, long-lasting quality and a balance between cost and premium standards. Reflecting on his career, Gatto states that his favorite projects are always the next ones, as each vessel holds a unique place in his heart. Currently, he has seven vessels on the design board. Regarding potential future adjustments to yacht design due to social distancing, Gatto believes yachts are inherently ideal for maintaining a healthy and protected environment. He notes that challenges would arise from space limitations, particularly for crew areas, necessitating independent air conditioning systems and dedicated outdoor spaces for the crew. He is also currently restoring a castle in the UK, aiming to return it to its original grandiose state, drawing inspiration from his Venetian heritage. If he were to own a yacht, Gatto indicates it would likely be one he is currently deeply involved with, such as the Aquamarine Project for Heesen, which incorporates Japanese influences and philosophies, focusing on achieving perfect harmony through a "Mushin"-inspired design process. Looking ahead, Gatto expresses a desire for continued travel, viewing it as essential for his creativity and ability to avoid repetitive designs. He maintains a highly personal approach to his work, overseeing each project closely rather than managing a large team or quantity of projects. #CristianoGatto #HeesenYachts #ProjectAltea #YachtDesign #InteriorDesign #LuxuryYachts #Superyacht #NavalArchitecture

The "coastal grandmother" trend, popularized by influencer Lex Nicoleta, encompasses a serene and comfortable aesthetic inspired by long weekends spent by the sea, characterized by elements like chilled white wine, romance novels, chambray, and sun hats. This trend, reflecting a relaxed yet chic way of life, finds its ideal expression in various seaside hotels across the United States. These establishments offer an atmosphere reminiscent of a stylish, welcoming grandmother's home, blending hospitality with coastal charm. The Moorings Village in the Florida Keys provides a tranquil beach escape with options ranging from a spacious 6,000-square-foot vacation home to one-bedroom cottages. These accommodations feature blue fabrics, rattan furniture, and large coastal prints, allowing guests to engage in activities from orchid-lined walks to leisurely swims in turquoise waters. The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort in South Carolina offers a grand 250-room oasis with a private beach, a piano bar, and vintage-inspired bedding. Its proximity to Charleston allows for convenient day trips to the city for dining and shopping. Summercamp Hotel in Martha’s Vineyard embodies the coastal grandmother aesthetic with its 70s beach camp-inspired decor. The hotel, located near the Oak Bluff ferry, features playful lobby decor, a wet-bar, and 86 brightly outfitted guest rooms, many with marina views. It also showcases local art, celebrating its colorful history. Eau Palm Beach Resort & Spa in Florida exudes seaside-chic vibes, welcoming guests with champagne. Its ocean-view rooms are decorated in coastal blues and lemon yellows, with nautical details. The resort boasts the acclaimed Eau Spa with a Buddhist-inspired garden, and guests can explore nearby Palm Beach estates and Henry Flagler's Whitehall mansion. The Wanderer Cottages in Kennebunk, a collection of 17 white clapboard New England cottages, offers surf shack-inspired decor and a prime location for biking to local attractions. Each studio and one-bedroom cottage is uniquely named and features vintage surf photography, nautical antiques, and custom rope-wrapped surfboards, with most being dog-friendly. Ocean House in Watch Hill, Rhode Island, is a meticulously restored and luxurious property, embodying coastal-grandma chic. Its 49 rooms and 20 suites offer ocean or garden views. The hotel houses an impressive art collection, multiple dining options, and a five-star spa. Notable suites include the Tower Suite with a spiral staircase and Block Island Sound views, and the Morgan Suite with a fully equipped kitchen and outdoor terrace. Hotel Effie Sandestin, Autograph Collection, in South Walton, Florida, reflects the grand personality of its namesake, providing warm Southern hospitality with welcome treats like chocolate chip cookies and sweet tea. Many rooms offer views of the Emerald Coast, and the expansive rooftop pool provides 360-degree vistas. Celebrity chef Hugh Acheson curated the food offerings, presenting sophisticated takes on Southern classics. Shutters on the Beach in Santa Monica, California, epitomizes the relaxed elegance of the coastal grandmother trend. Its 186 guest rooms are designed to resemble a wealthy East Coast manse, featuring breezy decor, large windows, and art by notable artists. The hotel's pool offers stunning views of Santa Monica Bay, and the One Spa provides relaxing treatments like hot-stone massages and microcurrent facials. #SeasideHotels #CoastalGrandmother #TravelInspiration #LuxuryTravel #HotelDesign #BeachGetaways #USATravel #BoutiqueHotels #ResortLife

Architect Horace Gifford, renowned for his modernist designs, transformed New York's Fire Island starting in the 1960s, creating 63 homes. Among these is a notable 1967 residence located at 46 Schooner Walk, currently listed for $3.75 million by Jamie Winkler of Winkler Real Estate Inc. This five-bedroom beach house is situated on a coveted beachfront lot in the village of Ocean Beach, within the Summer Club community, offering unobstructed views where sand extends to the edges of its timber-slatted deck. The home exemplifies Gifford's signature style, characterized by natural cedar cladding on both its exterior and interior. It features floor-to-ceiling arched windows that provide extensive views of the beach and ocean. The design also incorporates subtle sculptural curves that complement the otherwise rectilinear structure. Entry to the residence is marked by a waist-high gate flanked by two curvy wooden storage units. The front door, positioned perpendicular to a gently sloping staircase, opens directly into the main living area. The main living space is defined by a dramatic barrel-vaulted ceiling and a long wall of sliding glass doors topped with curved clerestory windows. Gifford ingeniously extended these four barrel vaults to the exterior, forming a cedar canopy that partially shades the wraparound deck. The open-plan kitchen, which is part of this expansive area, also benefits from the impressive floor-to-ceiling windows, offering picturesque views. However, the kitchen maintains a cozier atmosphere with a lower, flat ceiling, which accentuates the spaciousness of the adjacent living and dining areas. The kitchen is outfitted with granite countertops, wooden cabinetry, and a mirrored backsplash. The principal bedroom is strategically located beyond the main living area, also featuring a wall of glass that overlooks the beach and matching clerestory windows, ensuring it shares the bright, open aesthetic of the common spaces. On the opposite side of the house, four additional bedrooms are connected to a landscaped yard. This yard includes a boardwalk leading to an outdoor seating area, and further back, a fence-enclosed outdoor shower and dressing area, enhancing the beach-living experience. Horace Gifford, originally from coastal Florida, began his architectural career in New York after earning his degree from the University of Florida. He later pursued a master's degree under Louis Kahn at the University of Pennsylvania but returned to his New York firm before completing his studies. His significant influence on Fire Island's architecture is well-documented in Christopher Rawlins's 2013 book, 'Fire Island Modernist: Horace Gifford and the Architecture of Seduction,' which highlights how his beach houses transformed the island's landscape and culture. Gifford passed away in 1992 at the age of 59 due to complications from AIDS, but his modernist designs continue to be celebrated for their timeless appeal and warm, inviting character. #ModernistArchitecture #BeachHouse #FireIsland #HoraceGifford #CedarDesign #BarrelVaultedCeiling #OceanfrontProperty #RealEstate #ArchitecturalHistory

Casa Cook El Gouna, situated along the Red Sea in Egypt, presents a contemporary interpretation of Mediterranean-style resorts. The resort is located on the outskirts of El Gouna, a coastal town approximately twenty minutes from Hurghada airport, and was developed on terrain that was once barren. The design philosophy of Casa Cook El Gouna is deeply rooted in its local context, aiming for a simple and understated aesthetic. The exterior features a distinctive wooden slatted building that blends harmoniously with its surroundings, complemented by large green cacti serving as sculptural border plants. Creative director Remo Masala oversees all Casa Cook hotels, with a mission to establish a globally recognizable brand that integrates the expertise of local architects and designers, ensuring each property seamlessly fits its location. The accommodations at this retreat on Egypt's Red Sea coast vary from standard rooms to villas. Each unit is designed with a color palette of grey, brown, and taupe, incorporating natural linen throws, hand-carved wooden side tables, and textured patterned cushions to create layers of earthy interest. A warm color scheme, evident in the ceramics, rattan lights, and stone floors, complements the desert landscape, allowing the azure sky to remain the dominant visual element. Rooms are designed as sanctuaries, equipped with crisp white sheets, outdoor showers, coffee makers, and Marshall speakers, encouraging guests to relax, enjoy coffee, listen to music, and lounge by the pool. Junior Suites offer access to a shared pool, while villas feature two bedrooms and a private pool, ideal for families. The culinary experience at Casa Cook El Gouna is thoughtfully curated. The Kitchen Club is designed for communal dining, featuring a central courtyard, long dining tables, and a menu that combines Arabic flavors with international dishes. During the day, lunch is served by the beach pool, where bartenders prepare herb-infused cocktails, offering guests a view of kite surfers on the Red Sea. The resort's spa provides a tranquil environment for wellness treatments, featuring a pool, two saunas, a steam room, a plunge pool, and a hammam. The treatments and massages draw from oriental techniques, and the spa interiors, like the rest of the resort, prioritize light, simplicity, and stillness. Despite the serene atmosphere of Casa Cook El Gouna, a variety of activities are available, including wine tours, catamaran sailing trips, horse riding around the lagoon, and quad biking into the desert. The quad biking excursion explores the Pilly Valley, the world's third-longest canyon, which was once an oceanic seabed where fossilized corals and seashells are still discovered by Bedouin tribes. Guests can experience a desert sunset around a Bedouin campfire, enjoying strong tea and freshly baked bread, with the distant lights of El Gouna visible against the night sky. El Gouna itself, Arabic for “the lagoon,” is an extraordinary town developed over the past thirty years from a previously barren landscape. Owned and managed by Orascom Development, El Gouna boasts ten kilometers of coastline, known as the Red Sea Riviera, featuring twenty islands surrounded by lagoons. European and American architects have designed the buildings to emulate traditional rural Egyptian architecture, particularly that found in Nubian villages. The town offers golf courses, supermarkets, and restaurants. In 2017, telecom billionaire Naguib Sawiris established the annual El Gouna Film Festival, which has attracted regional icons such as Youssra, Dorra Zarrouk, and Hend Sabri. #RedSeaResort #EgyptTravel #HotelDesign #MediterraneanStyle #ElGouna #LuxuryTravel #SpaResort #NatureInspiredDesign #ArchitecturalDesign

Miami, often celebrated for its vibrant nightlife, also boasts a compelling daytime scene, especially its diverse and design-forward cafés. As Design Miami approaches, a curated list of coffee shops across Wynwood, Miami Beach, and Little Gables highlights establishments that offer not only excellent coffee but also captivating interior design, enhancing the city's creative pulse. Many of these cafés are integrated into renowned institutions like the Superblue Miami digital arts hub and the Frost Science Museum, making them cultural destinations in their own right. The article focuses on seven unique cafés, each presenting a distinct design aesthetic and culinary experience. Yann Couvreur Café in the Wynwood district translates the Parisian pastry chef's culinary artistry into a sophisticated tropical oasis. Designed by Charles Zana, the café reinterprets industrial and mid-century modern décor with glamorous touches, featuring organic tones, sculptural vegetation, and a stand-out mirrored entrance that brings the outdoors in. The blend of French and American cuisine offers a cosmopolitan appeal, with an all-day menu of French staples like fresh pastries, tartine saumon, and Niçoise salads. Façade, a newer addition in Coral Gables, combines Scandinavian-inspired interiors with a sourdough-focused gastronomic offer. Its design features a chic marble bar, tiled accent walls, and rougher elements like wooden cabinets and rattan baskets, bridging past and present aesthetics. The café is known for its high-hydration sourdough, French pastries, stuffed danishes, and specialty coffees like the honey-and-cinnamon-spiced café con leche, along with refreshing smoothies. Coffee@Science, located within the Frost Science Museum, provides a unique experience by integrating scientific themes into its design. William Lane Architect's vision incorporates molecular-like murals, spherical paper and wood lighting, velvety seating, and a 1970s-inspired warm color scheme. This café serves American-style food and drinks within an engaging atmosphere that lives up to the museum's scientific marvels. Blue Rider Café, situated within the Superblue Miami digital arts hub, extends the museum's experiential vision into the hospitality space. British-Nigerian artist Yinka Ilori designed the kaleidoscopic interiors, drawing inspiration from Miami's energy, architecture, and natural colors, as well as West Africa's vibrant textiles. The café offers rotating culinary and drink options from Miamian food trucks, fostering artistry, creativity, and positive societal discussions. Sadelle's at Kith Miami Design District offers a nostalgic, old-style diner experience with a lavish Art Deco design. Developed by Major Food Group in collaboration with Kith, the café features a pale pink and mint green palette with checkerboard floors, marble, chrome, and gold accents. It serves classic diner fare like pancakes, French toast, and breakfast sandwiches, complemented by a selection of cocktails, wine, and coffee, making it suitable for both casual meetings and special occasions. White Rose Coffee stands out as a multi-functional space, combining a coffee shop, tattoo studio, gallery, and nightlife venue. Founded by Javier Betancourt, the boldly decorated space features leathery mid-century modern furniture, original wall art, and photography. It serves specialty brews and pastries, hosts art exhibitions for local talent, and transforms into a lively nightlife spot with DJ sets, making it an inspiring remote working option with ample natural light. Pelican Cafe at Pelican Hotel caters to retro-inspired design lovers with sea-view interiors and Italian-style food. Designed by Renzo Rosso, the café boasts plush, neutral-toned furniture, palazzo floors, olive green walls, and an overall soothing, elegant ambiance. It offers mouth-watering breakfast dishes like Eggs Benedict and extravagant all-day dining options such as tuna and mango tartare. The evolving Miami coffee scene also anticipates new additions like Casa Nané in Brickell, promising modern rustic and boho-inspired interiors with an all-day brunch concept. #MiamiCafes #CafeDesign #InteriorDesign #MiamiTourism #ArtDeco #ScandinavianDesign #MidCenturyModern #ArtBaselMiami #HospitalityDesign

MUA Architecture & Placemaking has developed the Green Cape Botanico project on the Black Sea coast in Batumi, Georgia, aiming to seamlessly integrate contemporary architecture with the region's natural landscape and cultural heritage. Situated near the Batumi Botanical Garden, the site offers extensive sea views and is surrounded by lush greenery, along with a mix of low-rise houses and historical Soviet-era vacation homes. The design responds to this context by prioritizing minimal environmental impact and community-centric features. The masterplan comprises two apartment buildings and a central House of Wellness, designed to connect residential areas with recreational amenities. A key aspect of the design involves elevating the buildings to preserve the natural topography, allowing the existing landscape to remain largely untouched. This approach also incorporates existing pathways into the design, ensuring a continuous flow between structures and the surrounding environment. The apartment buildings feature a straightforward architectural style, characterized by floor-to-ceiling glass facades that provide unobstructed views of the sea and the botanical surroundings. This transparent design reinforces the connection between the indoor spaces and the natural world, enhancing the sense of openness and integration with the landscape. The open hotel typology further supports this interaction, blending the built environment with its natural setting. The House of Wellness is a four-level facility serving both residents and hotel guests, offering a variety of indoor and outdoor activities just minutes from the beach. Its design draws inspiration from the local landscape, contemporary recreational facility trends, and global architectural examples for similar functions. The building is constructed with a raw concrete frame, featuring curved corners and an elevated structure that allows for natural airflow beneath a floating rooftop pool. The terrace area, accessible via a prominent staircase, provides spaces for relaxation and entertainment. Addressing the challenges of a hilly and compact site, the design keeps the ground level open for parking, while placing the restaurant, gym, and pools on upper levels to maximize sea views. Technical areas are discreetly integrated into the building's contours, located behind the swimming pools. The rooftop terrace is equipped with both adult and children’s pools, an open kitchen, and a bar sheltered by a concrete canopy, creating a functional yet cohesive social space. This thoughtful design ensures that the Green Cape Botanico project balances modern architectural aesthetics with environmental preservation, resulting in a sustainable and harmonious development. #MUAArchitecture #GreenCapeBotanico #HotelDesign #GeorgianCoast #SustainableArchitecture #ConcreteStaircase #WellnessCenter #CoastalDevelopment #IntegratedLandscape

Brillhart Architecture, a South Florida-based firm founded by Jacob and Mellisa Brillhart, has established itself as an expert in local building traditions, specifically within the Tropical Modernism movement. The firm emphasizes integrating the surrounding landscape into its designs and creating spaces that evoke emotional responses from occupants. A prime example of their work is the Brillhart House, the duo's private residence, which embodies a "back-to-the-basics approach." The design was guided by four core questions: necessity, minimizing environmental impact, respecting neighborhood context, and buildability, challenging the prevailing culture of large-scale construction. The Brillhart House seamlessly integrates into the lush Florida landscape, surrounded by palm trees and southern foliage, exuding a serene and idyllic atmosphere. Reflecting traditional Floridian building types, it fosters a strong connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The design pays tribute to a "forgotten American Vernacular," blending Florida's postwar architectural heritage with elements like French doors and louvered window walls, giving it a distinctive Floridian character. The home's construction draws inspiration from Florida Crack Architecture, a regional style characterized by wood-frame construction, raised floors, central straight hallways, and wide verandas. Given Florida's humid climate, these traditional architectural elements facilitate passive heating and cooling. The 1500-square-foot residence exemplifies this approach, promoting a fluid transition between interior and exterior areas. The interior layout, consistent with "shotgun" or "dogtrot" style hallways, allows for a continuous flow from front to back. The architects deliberately moved away from conventional concrete-only construction, opting instead for a steel and glass superstructure. This choice resulted in reduced material waste, simplified assembly, and decreased construction costs and time. Furthermore, the use of steel and glass enhances cross ventilation, fostering a heightened sense of living in harmony with the natural landscape. The Brillhart House serves as a testament to the firm's commitment to thoughtful design that respects regional architectural history, embraces environmental consciousness, and creates evocative living spaces. #Miami #Florida #Residential #BrillhartArchitecture #SpotlightOnMiami #Landscape #Projects #VernacularArchitecture #TropicalModernism

This article provides 15 nautical decor ideas for bathrooms, aiming to infuse maritime vibes without resulting in a kitschy or overly clichéd aesthetic. It highlights various design elements and approaches from different interior designers, showcasing how to incorporate the spirit of the sea into a powder room or water closet to create a cool and serene sanctuary. The suggestions range from color palettes to specific decorative accents and tiling choices. Several designers demonstrate unique ways to achieve a nautical theme. Kim Armstrong's design utilizes blue arabesque tiles paired with a coral-inspired mirror, employing light gray grout to emphasize the tile shape. Alexandra Angle's bathroom serves as a gallery for a homeowner's ship painting collection, leveraging natural light. Leanne Ford, inspired by her past, repurposed an old Hobie sail as a waterproof shower curtain, valued for its warm white hue. Romanek Design Studio incorporated wall-to-wall green zellige tiles to achieve a laidback coastal atmosphere in an asymmetrical bathroom layout. Other ideas include playful elements such as Stefani Stein's use of Hovia's beach bather wallpaper and an antique ship's wheel mirror in a kids' bathroom. Jeff Andrews integrated turquoise Moroccan tiles from Diona Marble into a California bungalow bathroom, maintaining a cohesive color palette throughout the house without over-designing. Nina Farmer revitalized a sea-inspired powder room with marbleized wallpaper and a vintage Egon Hillebrand mirror, complemented by wainscotting painted in Farrow & Ball's Plummet. JL Design's approach involved a navy-and-white striped shower curtain and other blue accents for a playful nautical feel. The article further details how designers use specific materials and patterns. Justina Blakeney's "Jungalow" bathroom features striking azure tiles and a recessed niche with a chic vintage mirror. Eddie Maestri combined hexagon floor tiling with white square subway tiles on the walls, evoking a seaside-vacation, retro-camp look, completed with a floating anchor shower curtain. Erin Gates's crisp white powder room includes subtle sea-inspired elements like a coral mirror, maritime art, and inlay wood floors designed to resemble a yacht's deck. Tyler Karu moved away from the traditional blue-and-white scheme, opting for a tonal grey palette in a Maine waterfront home's powder room, using Schumacher wallpaper with a rope and shell motif and a cerused finish on the vanity to mimic driftwood. Chad Dorsey's design, inspired by summers in East Hampton, features pale blue Waterworks bath tiles, emphasizing simplicity. Lastly, Kate Ladd Chlebowski of Vernacular studio created a tented effect with painted stripes in a boy's bathroom, subtly nodding to nautical influences with a circular, burled mirror reminiscent of a ship's porthole, and Maestri Studio used a mirror reflecting ocean waves and a glass vessel sink to create a luxurious, sea-inspired ambiance. These diverse examples illustrate that achieving a nautical bathroom aesthetic can be accomplished through various design choices, including color schemes, materials, patterns, and statement pieces, all while maintaining a sophisticated and non-kitschy look. #NauticalDecor #BathroomDesign #InteriorDesign #HomeDecor #CoastalStyle #MaritimeTheme #DesignInspiration