This Montauk Beach House by Ghislaine Viñas Could Be in Malibu or Miami

Los Angeles-based interior designer Sophie Goineau has undertaken an interior overhaul of a Malibu beach house, drawing inspiration from its distinctive natural surroundings. The redesign of the cliffside property focuses on maximizing the white sands and blue waters of the ocean, as well as the sweeping cliff placement and abundant California sun. The project, commissioned by a young family from Careyes, Mexico, aimed to create a stylish and contemporary home that could accommodate the needs of their newborn while offering a modern retreat experience. The property, originally built in 1965 and previously remodeled at the turn of the millennium, faced strict Malibu zoning laws that limited external expansion. Consequently, Goineau's approach centered on interior development rather than altering the external facade. She noted that many rooms were initially divided by walls, restricting natural light and creating a lack of harmonious flow. Her primary challenge was to create a cohesive and open feel within the existing structural limitations, utilizing existing openings, sliding doors, and skylights in vaulted ceilings to enhance natural light. A key design decision involved the removal of internal walls to open up the living spaces and orient the home towards its expansive oceanside vistas. To define distinct areas without reverting to heavy, fixed walls, Goineau incorporated strategic partitions. An example is a floating storage island in the bedroom, which functions as both a storage solution and a headboard, maintaining an open and continuous flow throughout the room. Goineau's design philosophy was deeply rooted in the site's three core elements: the ocean, the cliffs, and the California sun. This inspiration culminated in the home's main interior feature: a unique ceiling sequence designed to evoke the movement of breaking waves. This aesthetic element also serves a practical purpose. Constructed from four layers of ash wood, set at varying angles, the timber ceiling acts as an internal sun-shading system, cleverly managing the intense sunlight in a house so open to the elements. Every detail in the home is curated to reflect its Malibu context. The living room features a rose gold bar with a shimmering reflective surface, displaying shades of flamingo rose, tangerine pink, and gold. The surrounding walls and floors are designed to be light and organic, providing a neutral backdrop for carefully chosen artworks and contemporary furnishings. The furniture selection, notably pieces from Mexico City-based ATRA, further enriches the interior, creating a showcase of modern design. The material palette emphasizes tactile quality, with furnishings in rich boucle fabrics, saddle leather, warm teak, textured woods, and black upholstery. Goineau explained that these materials serve as a visual reference to natural elements, with the dark materials specifically chosen to highlight the contrast between dark and light found in nature. The overall design successfully marries these elements, creating a cohesive and visually appealing space that resonates with its stunning coastal environment. #MalibuBeachHouse #InteriorDesign #SophieGoineau #CaliforniaArchitecture #CoastalLiving #ModernDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #SustainableDesign #LuxuryHomes

This article highlights the design philosophy and execution of a beach house in Pulpos, Peru, owned by Bettina Lolas and designed in collaboration with Venezuelan-born designer Carlos Mota. The home is characterized by its open-air structure and a relaxed, bohemian aesthetic, eschewing traditional beach house tropes. Lolas, a creative consultant based in Lima, acquired the house in 2008, drawn to the laid-back atmosphere of the surfer town and the architecture of the 1980s Juvenal Baracco-designed property. Mota's design approach focused on creating a comfortable and unfussy environment where furniture and decor would gain character and patina over time from the coastal elements. For instance, the outdoor dining table is crafted from butcher's block wood, complemented by folding bamboo chairs that Mota painted black for added drama. The living spaces are kept minimal, emphasizing comfort over extensive furnishings, with a custom sofa banquette topped with pillows from John Derian serving as a key seating area. A notable design choice is the use of museum posters for wall art instead of expensive paintings, contributing to the home's carefree vibe. The primary bedroom features an Indian screen, painted white by Mota, which functions as a headboard, adding texture to the concrete walls, and is adorned with a vintage Turkish suzani bedcover. The bedroom also provides direct access to the pool area, where Mota extended a bamboo wall to enhance privacy from neighboring properties and incorporated a sculptural cactus garden around the pool's edge, chosen for its resilience to direct sun and heat. The collaboration between Lolas and Mota proved highly successful, leading to plans for a second beach house project in Máncora, northwestern Peru. The Pulpos beach house is described as a place where Lolas feels happy, free, and relaxed, particularly when enjoying the terrace overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The article underscores Mota's unique vision of a beach house that blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings while offering a distinctive and relaxed living experience. #CarlosMota #BeachHouse #PeruvianDesign #OpenAirLiving #BohemianStyle #CoastalDecor #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalRenovation #OutdoorLiving

L.A.-based designer Patrick Ediger undertook the task of redecorating a Marina del Rey home, situated a block from the shore and the marina, yet also a short drive from Los Angeles. The challenge was to balance the home's beachside location with the family's transition from a "fun party space" to a more family-oriented environment, while still maintaining the sophistication of the architecture and infusing a cosmopolitan vibe. The designer's approach was to move beyond predictable beach house aesthetics, avoiding an overabundance of typical seaside motifs like palm trees and seashells. Instead, Ediger aimed for a refined coastal style that blended seamlessly with an urban sensibility. Ediger's design strategy involved a thoughtful juxtaposition of fabrics and textures to create rooms that felt both casual and elegant. For example, in the living room, a neutral linen sofa and a warm wood coffee table were selected to provide a relaxed and family-friendly foundation. These elements were then elevated with the inclusion of silk drapes and chrome accents, adding a touch of sophistication. In the master bedroom, a grasscloth wallpaper featuring a subtle leaf-like motif served as a nod to the beach environment without being overtly themed, while faceted glass lanterns introduced an industrial edge to the space. The designer adeptly navigated the balance between high-end aesthetics and practical, family-friendly living. The dining room exemplified this approach, where a striking shell chandelier was installed alongside walls adorned with metallic plates, creating a visually rich and distinctive atmosphere. This combination achieved a look that appears luxurious but is designed to be manageable for a family. The overall redesign successfully reconciled the diverse influences of a beach community and urban living, culminating in a home that is both elegant and welcoming for a growing family. The result is a residence that exudes a sophisticated yet comfortable ambiance, effectively blending beachy charm with urban chic. #BeachHouseDesign #HomeMakeover #InteriorDesign #CoastalDecor #FamilyFriendlyDesign #UrbanChic #MarinaDelRey #PatrickEdiger #SophisticatedLiving

This blog post details the transformation of a shingle-style home located just outside of Nantucket, Massachusetts, from a mountain lodge aesthetic to a classic, light, bright, and breathtakingly pretty beach house retreat. Originally built in the early 2000s, the home's interiors were characterized by natural and dark stained wood paneling and heavy iron fixtures. The new owner envisioned a seaside haven, and Boston-based interior designer Gary McBournie undertook the significant task of redesigning the interiors without major structural changes, completing the project in just six months. McBournie's approach focused on incorporating a traditional coastal palette of blues and whites, combined with contemporary freshness. The designer's primary strategy was to use extensive white paint to lighten the formerly dark spaces and to infuse the decor with soothing ocean-inspired colors and textures. The goal was to reflect the rich history of Nantucket while maintaining a comfortable, non-museum-like atmosphere. The transformation began with the patio, where ample seating from Janus et Cie was introduced, complemented by side tables for enjoying the ocean views, emphasizing the importance of outdoor spaces in beach house decor. The sunroom, previously a large mudroom and storage area, was reimagined as a cozy, sheltered space for appreciating the seascape. Sunroom ideas included basket and rattan furniture with ocean blue upholstery and scatter pillows. Drapery treatments were added to doorways to create a sense of balance and nook-like intimacy. A locally-produced woven rag rug by Hillary Anepole provided charm and a nod to the island’s weaving history, with the sofa sourced from Todd Hase Furniture. The kitchen underwent a significant overhaul to align with the new coastal theme. Dark wood paneling on the vaulted ceiling was painted white, instantly brightening the space. The existing commercial-feeling island was rebuilt with 'feet' to give it a residential appearance and painted in Benjamin Moore's 'Blue Jean.' Sparking white quartz counters, reminiscent of sand and ocean foam, replaced the old ones. Sconces from Soane Britain and a pendant from Guinevere were installed, along with Roman shades in blue and white cotton from Peter Fasano, adding softness. Counter stools from Serena & Lily completed the look. A key challenge in the living room was the imposing stone fireplace, which strongly evoked a 'mountain house' feel. McBournie addressed this by hanging a pair of Scabetti fish chandeliers in glazed and unglazed bone china in front of the fireplace, accompanied by a large round mirror to reflect the shimmering fish and light. The open-plan living area was subtly separated from the kitchen and dining space by an antique English oak sideboard, which was topped with a glass cylinder filled with native grasses and a whale vertebra to enhance the sense of place. The furnishings were chosen to be substantial yet light in spirit, featuring a large sofa in light blue tweed and smaller sofas in deep blue, with Bielecky Brothers lounge chairs upholstered in the same fabric as the window treatments to reinforce the summer house ambiance. The dining room explicitly embraced coastal style with jaunty chair cushions, a large custom white dining table, and blue and white upholstered bamboo chairs. Mid-century consoles with hand-painted shell and wave motifs by local artist Diedre Mannix and Anglo-Indian lanterns grouped at staggered heights further enhanced the nautical theme. The primary bedroom, with its harbor views, adopted a light and breezy scheme, incorporating Lockhart wallpaper from Peter Fasano and pale blue linen window treatments. Checked fabric from Schumacher was used for a chair, accent pillows, and a window seat, with additional furnishings from Oomph Home, Nantucket Looms, and Norbar. The second guest bedroom introduced a change of mood, drawing inspiration from pastoral views and incorporating various shades of green. An antique campaign chest and nautical engravings in white frames contributed to an English feel, with walls painted in Benjamin Moore's 'Fresh Dew' and Soane Britain’s 'Scrolling Fern Frond' fabric custom-colored for the headboard and window treatments. The third bedroom blended harbor and pastoral views with a vintage floral theme, inspired by an impressionist beach scene painting. A pink strie wallpaper from Farrow & Ball and a vintage Brunschwig & Fils floral fabric created a soft background, complemented by crisp white Leontine Linens with pink embroidery and a pink gourd lamp from Christopher Spitzmiller with a Blanche Field lampshade. Finally, the outdoor terrace and porch lawn, with basket chairs from Janus et Cie's Arbor collection featuring ocean blue cushion fabrics, completed the transformation. Gary McBournie successfully eradicated the mountain-lodge aesthetic, replacing it with fresh, calm, and uplifting coastal interiors that offer a stunning new lease of life to the home. The design skillfully references traditional old island hotels while incorporating sensitive touches of contemporary seaside themes, creating a harmonious blend of familiarity and refreshing new design. #NantucketHome #BeachHouseStyle #CoastalInteriors #HomeTransformation #InteriorDesign #GaryMcBournie #SeasideRetreat #BlueAndWhiteDecor #TraditionalCoastal

Allyson and Paul Riser, who annually vacation along Highway 30A in Seaside, Florida, embarked on a project to build a family retreat on a narrow, challenging lot in the heart of Seaside. Initially skeptical of the neglected strip of land, which they mistook for overflow parking, the Risers were ultimately convinced by its unparalleled location—catty-corner from Seaside’s town square and a short walk from the beach, offering wide views of the Gulf of Mexico. This prime location was a critical requirement for their large family, consisting of four grown children and a daughter-in-law. To overcome the constraints of the unusual lot size and accommodate their family's needs, the Risers enlisted Seaside architect Ty Nunn and Birmingham interior designer Fran Keenan. Their primary objective was to create sufficient bedrooms and gathering spaces, while Allyson also sought to infuse the new Florida build with the character and timelessness found in the old coastal homes of the South Carolina Lowcountry. Nunn designed a three-story house, one room deep and three rooms wide, with the kitchen and main living area located on the top floor to maximize the exceptional views. Keenan faced the challenge of incorporating the Lowcountry aesthetic, which often features large, low-slung roofs, into a tall three-level structure. A trip to Paris provided an unconventional solution: installing large, pop-out windows in the roof to flood the third-floor living area with natural light, creating a bright and airy space that became the focal point of the home. Inside, Keenan and her colleague Sara Walker curated an interior that reflected the surrounding landscape without resorting to overt beach-themed decor. The color palette, inspired by the blues and greens of the Gulf, features grayish blues, whites, muted turquoise, and faded aqua, fostering a sense of peace and serenity. The light-colored floors were specifically chosen to mimic sand, cleverly concealing any beach sand tracked in by the family. The design incorporated a mix of antique furnishings and architectural details such as wide-wood-paneled walls and detailed casing to give the new house an immediate sense of history and character. Keenan emphasized that using "old things" helps keep a space fresh and unique, breaking away from conventional design norms. The decor was further enhanced by layers of art, including framed textiles and pressed botanicals, adding personal touches and fostering conversation. A notable feature is the stairwell art gallery, filled with over 120 vintage nautical paintings collected from various vendors across the Southeast, including estate sales in Little Rock, making an otherwise functional space a vibrant display of personal history and curated taste. A large coastal landscape painting, discovered at Scott Antique Markets in Atlanta, became a centerpiece in the sons' room, symbolizing a nostalgic piece that could be passed down through generations. Ultimately, the home serves as a cherished gathering place for the Riser family, facilitating connection and creating lasting memories as their children grow. #BeachBungalow #CoastalHome #HomeDesign #InteriorDesign #SeasideFlorida #FamilyRetreat #ArchitecturalInnovation #AntiqueDecor #NauticalArt

The "Nirvana" estate, a mansion designed as a Zen-like paradise, has been listed for $25 million in Manalapan, Florida, within Palm Beach county. This oceanfront property seamlessly blends Zen and Buddhist influences with luxurious amenities, reflecting an "East-meets-West" theme, as described by Senada Adzem, director of luxury sales at Douglas Elliman real estate. The residence spans 12,244 square feet, with every detail curated to create an atmosphere of tranquility and opulence. Upon entering, the interior showcases tasteful details and muted color palettes, contributing to a relaxed ambiance. Luxurious touches are evident throughout, such as the cross-beamed ceiling in the family room. The kitchen is a focal point, featuring unique light fixtures above the island and intricately carved cabinetry. A sizable saltwater aquarium overlooks the shadowboxed dining room, adding a distinctive element to the space. The formal living room offers a commanding view of the ocean, complemented by a newly constructed seawall, and is adorned with a crystal chandelier and sconces mounted on a carved stone fireplace. The mansion includes several specialized rooms, such as a Buddhist prayer room, underscoring its Zen inspiration, and a sophisticated cinema room designed to replicate the grandeur of a classic art-house movie theatre. The master bathroom is appointed with custom cabinetry, a freestanding tub, and a walk-in glass shower, with the tub specifically positioned to offer an incredible view of the Atlantic Ocean. Outside, the estate features private, grotto-like garden paths that are meticulously landscaped, creating a serene environment ideal for meditation. These paths provide a scenic route to the ocean, evoking an "Alice in Wonderland" aesthetic. From the rear of the house, the Spanish tile roof is a noticeable architectural detail. The outdoor area also boasts artful columns and arches overlooking an infinity-edge pool, along with an open-air sitting area designed to provide comfort away from the Florida sun. A straw hut covers an additional poolside seating area, offering another cozy spot with a stunning view. Beyond the main residence, the property includes a dock on Lake Worth Inlet, capable of accommodating a 130-foot yacht, and a full-size tennis court. The Nirvana estate is presented as a harmonious fusion of modern design, spiritual elements, and lavish comforts, offering a unique living experience in a prime oceanfront location. #Mansion #PalmBeachRealEstate #LuxuryHomes #ZenInspiredDesign #OceanfrontProperty #FloridaRealEstate #ArchitecturalDesign #HighEndLiving #NirvanaEstate

This article details the transformation of a circa-1980 Ventura, California, beach house, purchased by an LA-based couple with two young children at the beginning of the pandemic. The homeowners enlisted designer Jess Diab, formerly a project manager for Sarah Sherman Samuel, to redesign the space. The house, which was the only oceanfront property available at the time, presented a unique design challenge due to its irregular shapes, compartmentalized social areas, and a 'clunky' three-floor layout. Diab's design philosophy centered on celebrating the home's existing geometry, particularly inspired by its swooping entry stairwell. The primary goal was to enhance the sense of flow throughout the three-story structure without undertaking major structural changes. The layout includes guest bedrooms on the lower, beach-level floor, living, dining, and cooking areas on the middle floor, and a partially open, lofted main bedroom. Diab aimed to create numerous "moments" and visual movement to counteract the feeling of simply navigating a series of staircases. Key design elements and strategies implemented by Diab included plastering the walls of a funky stairwell niche to create a soothing, textured aesthetic. This area was further adorned with a sculptural side table and a large decorative clamshell, designed to encourage a momentary pause before guests exit the home. In the guest bedrooms on the ground floor, Diab opted for a hotel-suite ambiance, incorporating simple nightstands and pendant lights. A notable design choice in these rooms involved custom cushioned panels framing the headboard, inspired by Drop It Modern fabric. A black side table, originally an inexpensive find, was spray-painted to elevate its appearance and complement the graphic patterns in the room. The lofted main bedroom initially suffered from a long, narrow configuration, resembling a 'bowling alley' where the bed could only be placed on one wall. To mitigate this awkward orientation, Diab introduced a custom channel-tufted headboard to visually expand the room with horizontal lines. In the kitchen, a new marble countertop and backsplash featuring dark green and gray veining were selected to evoke the Pacific Ocean. The slab yard meticulously book-matched the visible edges of shelves to create a continuous, swirling, watery effect. An upper shelf was strategically placed to keep essentials like coffee and mugs accessible for guests. Addressing storage concerns, Diab collaborated with professional organizer Julianna Strickland of Space Camp Organizing. Beyond stocking the house with the family's preferred snacks, the project involved building custom cabinets to accommodate surplus kitchen items. Given the homeowners' need to host up to 15 people, Strickland designed extra storage around the dining nook for pantry items and dishes. The curved theme was extended to these cupboards, which were finished with Park Studio hardware, a detail replicated in the bedroom closets. The collaboration with Strickland reportedly brought a sense of calm and order to the home's functional aspects. #HomeRenovation #BeachHouseDesign #InteriorDesign #CoastalLiving #SpacePlanning #CurvedArchitecture #VenturaCalifornia #JessDiabStudio #StorageSolutions

This article details the transformation of a circa-1980 beachside home in Ventura, California, which was purchased by a Los Angeles-based couple with two young children at the beginning of the pandemic. The homeowners enlisted designer Jess Diab to revitalize the property, which was initially described as "clunky" with irregular shapes and compartmentalized social areas. Diab's primary goal was to celebrate the existing geometry of the space while introducing a sense of flow and movement, despite the house's three-story layout and numerous stairs, which often made it feel disjointed. The design strategy focused on enhancing the home's inherent curves and improving its functionality without undertaking major structural changes. The house features guest bedrooms on the lower level, living, dining, and kitchen areas on the middle floor, and a partially open, lofted main bedroom. Diab addressed the 'clunky' feel by creating design 'moments' throughout the house, aiming to give the illusion of seamless movement. For instance, a funky stairwell niche was transformed into a calming focal point using textured plaster walls, a sculptural side table, and a decorative clamshell, encouraging occupants to pause and appreciate the space. In the guest bedrooms, located on the beach level, Diab aimed to create a hotel-suite ambiance. This was achieved by incorporating simple nightstands and pendant lights. A custom-cushioned panel, sourced from Drop It Modern fabric, inspired the design of a three-ball side table. This table, originally an inexpensive piece, was spray-painted to mimic a high-end designer item, demonstrating a resourceful approach to budget-conscious design. The lofted main bedroom, initially narrow and awkward, was made more inviting with a custom channel-tufted headboard that introduced horizontal lines, visually broadening the space. The kitchen's design also incorporated the theme of movement and connection to the surroundings. A new marble countertop and backsplash, featuring dark green and gray veining, were selected to evoke the Pacific Ocean. The visible edges of the shelves were meticulously book-matched to create a swirling, watery effect. An upper shelf was strategically placed to ensure easy access to essentials like coffee and mugs for guests. Storage was a significant consideration, especially since the homeowners needed to accommodate up to 15 people. Diab collaborated with professional organizer Julianna Strickland of Space Camp Organizing to not only stock the home with family favorites but also to design and install custom cabinets. These cabinets, framing the dining nook, provided ample storage for pantry items and dishes, essential for entertaining large groups. The curved theme was extended to the hardware, with Park Studio handles adorning both the kitchen cupboards and bedroom closets, ensuring a cohesive design language throughout the home. #BeachHouse #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #CurvedDesign #SpacePlanning #CoastalDecor #StorageSolutions #JessDiabStudio #VenturaHome

This article highlights the design philosophy and execution of interior designer Raili Clasen in transforming a 1918 Laguna Beach cottage. Clasen, known for translating surf and beach culture into design, created a space that is both chic and joyful, incorporating bright accents and a streamlined layout. The cottage, despite its small footprint and city building code restrictions, was completely renovated to maximize every inch, addressing the owner's need for a functional, low-fuss space for entertaining friends. Clasen's design approach began with gutting the entire house. She ingeniously converted a coat closet into a compact powder room and another closet into a laundry area, ensuring no space was wasted. The bedrooms exemplify efficient design; one children's room features two twin beds with trundles, accommodating up to four kids, while a guest room includes a queen-sized bed. Clasen's playful side is evident in surf-inspired elements, such as flags stitched with names of famous surf beaches by Slightly Choppy and a unique installation of single swim fins in a guest bedroom, sourced from a thrift shop. Her expert use of color is a defining characteristic of the cottage's interior. Starting with a neutral base of Benjamin Moore Chantilly Lace white walls, she introduced vibrant hues like Sherwin Williams Bright Olive paint and Portola Paint terracotta wash. In the bathroom, a half wall of two-toned Zellige tiles by Clé creates an "ode to the sea," with dark blue representing the ocean and light blue the sky, complemented by vintage ship pendant lights. The kitchen design prioritized functionality and spaciousness despite its small size. Clasen meticulously planned the layout to prevent appliance doors from clashing and utilized open shelving to create the illusion of a larger area. The kitchen also serves as the back entrance, necessitating an open flow for sandy visitors. A built-in banquette with performance fabric cushions and mustard yellow Windsor-style chairs maximizes seating, while basket pendants from Pop and Scott add natural textures. The durable 3-inch strip oak flooring with a wax finish was chosen for its resilience and authentic feel. The living room features a custom sectional sofa in durable washed linen, designed to fit the space perfectly and accommodate groups. Additional seating can be brought in from the small deck. The primary bathroom showcases hand-printed cement tiles from Morocco by Concrete Collaborative, incorporating California desert colors for a retreat-like ambiance. In the primary bedroom, natural materials are emphasized with a wicker bed from Kalon Studios, a classic Noguchi light, and bedding from Cultiver. A guest bedroom is enlivened with saturated bedding colors from Cultiver and a painted stripe serving as a visual headboard, with sconces from Schoolhouse Electric. Artistic touches include an Eric Vallely photo of a diver split into a diptych in the living room and Lake August Matilija wallpaper in the powder room, which Clasen considers her favorite design moment. A yellow Vola faucet and cast concrete sink in the powder room contribute to a bold statement in the tiny space. Clasen’s design not only maximized the cottage's limited space but also infused it with a distinctive, cheerful, and coastal character. #LagunaBeach #CoastalCottage #SmallSpaceDesign #InteriorDesign #RailiClasen #HomeRenovation #SurfCulture #ColorPalette #FunctionalDesign

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 showcases the transformation of a Cornish beachside house into a home filled with coastal charm, reflecting the owner Juliet Mayhew's journey from initial skepticism about the region's appeal to fully embracing its unique character. Initially, Juliet, an Australian, found Cornwall's shingle beaches a stark contrast to the white sands she was accustomed to. However, a sunny second visit, including a boat trip along the Helford River, changed her perspective, leading her to appreciate the special allure of the area. This shift in perception was crucial as she and her husband found a house in a prime, secluded location overlooking the sea, offering views of bobbing boats and lush oak-covered hills. The process of acquiring the property was a notable undertaking, requiring an early morning drive from London to place a successful bid before the house went to the open market. Following the purchase, the couple dedicated significant time to planning improvements, aiming to seamlessly connect the interiors with the stunning outdoor spaces. A key structural alteration involved creating an open-plan kitchen and sitting room by knocking through a wall, enhancing light and maximizing the sea views from all main rooms. The kitchen, which was an existing feature, received a stylish update with pale grey painted cabinets, and its large central workspace was designed for entertaining. As an experienced interior designer and party planner, Juliet meticulously curated the home's aesthetic over a year, drawing inspiration from the sea. Her approach involved extensive online searches for marine-themed decor, including rope lamps, fabrics with coral motifs, shells, boats, oars, driftwood stools, and a large compass. This intentional and overt embrace of nautical styling, rather than a subtle nod, infused the house with distinct character and visual interest. The sitting room, with its expansive windows, allows residents and guests to fully immerse themselves in the spectacular views, complemented by a vibrant color scheme that defines the coastal living space. The dining room's lively color palette mirrors Juliet's energetic personality and her love for entertaining, a central consideration in the home's redesign. Upstairs, the main bedroom was expanded to include a larger balcony, creating a space that evokes the feeling of a ship's deck. Juliet particularly enjoys sitting on the balcony and watching boats, finding it a source of deep relaxation. In contrast to the home's more vibrant areas, the guest bedroom offers a serene atmosphere, decorated in a calming palette of blues and neutrals, directly inspired by the surrounding coastal environment. Optimizing the outdoor living experience, the terrace was reconfigured after observing the sun's path throughout the seasons. This thoughtful adjustment allowed the couple to fully leverage the breathtaking views of the Cornish coastline. The entire renovation and decoration project underscore a deliberate design philosophy that blends personal taste with the natural beauty of the location, creating a harmonious and uniquely styled beachside residence. #CoastalHome #InteriorDesign #HomeRenovation #CornwallLiving #NauticalDecor #OpenPlanLiving #SeasideProperty #HomeStyling

Musician and producer Bobby Diggs, famously known as RZA from the Wu-Tang Clan, and his wife Talani, enlisted designer Maya Williams to transform their sprawling 12,900-square-foot oceanfront Malibu residence into a soulful and playful sanctuary. This marks their third collaboration with Williams, who they trust to actualize their design visions. The primary objective was to infuse warmth and intimacy into the large space, balancing expansive areas with cozy, private nooks, all while capitalizing on the sweeping ocean views and high ceilings. Williams aimed to create a home that fosters creativity for Bobby, while providing a sense of peace and positive energy for both. The couple was particularly drawn to the creative energy of Malibu, a feeling Bobby attributes to the ocean winds, which he believes enhance his songwriting process. Williams approached the design of each room as a distinct composition, leading the couple to affectionately name their home “The Temple.” The grand salon, which serves as the entry point, embodies a Zen atmosphere with bamboo-clad walls and a sculptural light fixture reminiscent of piano keys, suspended over sound wave-patterned rugs. Music is a central theme throughout the home. A dedicated record room, located beneath the stairwell, was designed to house Bobby’s extensive vinyl collection and function as a relaxed listening lounge, ideal for entertaining. The adjacent elevator features a custom gold wallpaper by Phillip Jeffries, incorporating the iconic Wu-Tang Clan logo, effectively turning it into a unique selfie room. The design team also created a luxurious hair salon, drawing inspiration from Talani’s past as a successful fashion model in the 1990s. This space showcases a refined elegance with black-and-white stonework, custom-fabricated from two types of marble, subtly referencing the Chanel camellia and maintaining a monochromatic, glamorous aesthetic. The Pacific Ocean plays a significant role in the home's design, with Williams ensuring that furniture heights were kept low to preserve uninterrupted sightlines. The primary suite, offering views on three sides, utilizes a restrained color palette of neutrals, champagnes, and subtle blues to complement the serene coastal landscape. Outdoors, the material language of the interior extends to durable wood finishes, adding warmth to the pool area and lending a Mediterranean touch. Each of the six guest rooms is uniquely themed and named after a specific gemstone, providing a playful and individualized experience for visitors. Additional amenities include an intimate bar and a cozy home theater. Through Williams’s careful use of color and texture, these elements combine to create a welcoming and comfortable retreat that guests often liken to a “speakeasy resort,” and are reluctant to leave. #MalibuHome #CelebrityHome #InteriorDesign #MayaWilliamsDesign #WuTangClan #LuxuryLiving #OceanfrontProperty #MusicInspiredDesign #ZenDesign #CustomInteriors

Miken Builders, a company founded in northern Delaware in 1986 by Mike Cummings and later relocated to the coast in 1994, specializes in crafting custom beach homes. Mike's son, Sean Cummings, now leads the company. A couple with two college-aged children commissioned Miken Builders to create a custom summer home in Bethany Beach. Sean Cummings collaborated with architect Greg Hastings of Ocean View, known for his 40-year career in coastal construction and ability to create unique coastal designs, a partnership that has spanned over a decade. The resulting custom-designed house, located within walking distance of downtown Bethany, blends traditional coastal elements with unexpected details. The exterior showcases a classic shingle style, featuring a gambrel roofline—characterized by two shallow slopes above two steeper ones—and an oval-within-an-oval window. A distinctive gable emerges from another gable, forming a roof for a third-floor porch-like terrace, a nod to Miken Builders' origins in deck and porch construction. This facade presents an assertive yet inviting aesthetic, complemented by white railings, shingle and metal roofs, and board-and-batten detailing, contributing to a "cottage feel" for the expansive 4,500-square-foot home, which includes five bedrooms, four with en suite bathrooms. The home's indoor-outdoor living experience is highlighted by its 14-by-24-foot screened-in porch, a testament to Miken Builders' expertise in porch design. A casual, swing-like daybed, featuring nautical-style rope and plaid fabric, anchors the space. The porch is seamlessly integrated with the living room through a pair of four-panel French doors, creating a glass wall effect. The house employs an inverted floor plan, common in flood zones, with the main living area on the second floor and bedrooms on the third. A game room occupies the ground floor. Interior design choices, guided by Denise Perkins, lead interior designer at Bountiful Interiors, embrace bold colors and patterns. The home's bright-blue front door foreshadows the vibrant interior. A kitchen island and wet-bar millwork are painted in Sherwin-Williams' Blue Refrain, complemented by vivid wallpaper, primarily from Thibaut, which deviates from typical beach house aesthetics. The clients actively embraced these unconventional color choices. The kitchen features a scalloped fish-scale tile backsplash and cabinetry by Atlantic Millwork & Cabinetry, along with a Kohler stainless steel apron sink. These design elements ensure the house is both visually pleasing and functional. The living room is anchored by a sectional sofa from Universal Furniture, upholstered in performance fabric, and receives ample natural light through the French doors. Whitewashed beams contribute to a modern beach aesthetic. Innovative design extends to the bedrooms. One guest room features a sophisticated bunk-bed design with an extra-large single mattress above a queen-sized bed. A bunk-bed room, designed with future family use in mind, incorporates an ingenious whitewashed staircase with drawer steps and rope handles, maximizing space and utility. A latch on the upper bunk's railing allows for easier bed-making. In one of the main bedrooms, flooring material, specifically wood veneer, was used to create a weathered, faded-blue angled ceiling, complementing the woven headboard from Universal Furniture and contributing to the overall cottage feel. One en suite bathroom showcases subway shower tiles in a herringbone pattern, with the vanity provided by Perkins. These distinctive design choices create a relaxed yet sophisticated aesthetic that reflects the homeowners' preferences for originality. #CoastalCharm #CustomHome #BethanyBeach #MikenBuilders #InteriorDesign #ArchitecturalDesign #LuxuryLiving #BeachHouse #HomeDecor

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

Interior designer Ashley Gilbreath designed a high-rise coastal home in Perdido Key, Florida, for retired clients seeking a sophisticated yet relaxing second home. The design prioritizes relaxation while elevating the aesthetic beyond typical beach house styles. The clients, having retired after over 30 years of work, desired an elegant escape where they could spend significant time. Gilbreath ensured all furnishings were durable and family-friendly, utilizing tailored, washable slipcovers and performance fabrics, emphasizing that everything should be "lived in and loved on." A hallmark of Gilbreath's design in this project is the use of over-scaled accessories to create dramatic statements and unique elements in each space. She believes in "pushing limits" to make a space distinctive, exemplified by large art pieces and a prominent chandelier in the dining room. The color palette throughout the home predominantly features a spectrum of blues and greens, with notable elements like a turquoise wallcovering from Phillip Jeffries in the bar area. The living room features classic yet durable furnishings from brands such as CR Laine, paired with a practical Dash & Albert rug. A custom upholstered TV armoire offers a refined alternative to standard media cabinets. In the breakfast room, a chandelier from Ro Sham Beaux and large-scale natural art take advantage of the tall ceilings. The kitchen incorporates Parisian-style barstools from Serena and Lily, complementing the blue-and-white color scheme. Creative solutions for guest spaces include a wide headboard in a guest bedroom displaying vintage bathing suits across two twin beds. A small entryway is maximized with an aqua console, art by Alisa Koch, and baskets for storage. In another guest room, fabric-flanked nightstands hide storage, and antique fish prints adorn the bedside area. To optimize surface space in a compact guest room, sconces from Visual Comfort & Co were chosen, and wooden bowls were hung as textural art above the bed. As the penthouse was new construction, the focus was solely on furnishings and decorative elements rather than structural changes. Gilbreath introduced architectural interest through various means, such as grass-cloth walls and hanging glass shelves in the bar area. The design ensures that the interior elements enhance, rather than detract from, the stunning views of the quiet beachside setting in a state park. The overall goal was to create casual, elegant spaces conducive to making memories, a goal the designer successfully achieved. #BeachDesign #CoastalHome #InteriorDesign #AshleyGilbreath #LuxuryInteriors #FloridaRealEstate #SecondHome #HomeDecor #ElegantLiving