Stimuli

It’s finally time to open the windows and let the breezes in! Summer decorating is all about bringing the outdoors in and some of my favourite looks are those inspired by the ocean. The fantastic thing is that whether you want to bring in natural elements or pull together a nautical theme, you can do so on any budget and to suit any style home.

The powder room is the perfect place to add a little bit of the sea. A heavy rope basket for your hand towels and a few natural accessories like these starfish will complete the look.
Two other high impact areas for decorating are the front entry and the mantel. If you want to bring in natural elements you could use apothecary jars or any glass vases or containers you may have and fill them with shells, sea glass or stones. For some height you can fill a tall vase or container with twigs.  Of course the look can be casual, sophisticated or modern, depending on your accessories. Showcasing your shell collection on a mirrored tray will add a little glamour and sparkle, whereas using a wooden or woven bowl will provide an earthier natural look. 

The HouseWarmings store at Elgin Corners in South Surrey carries many natural accents like stones, shells, coral and twigs. You’ll also find decorative plates with shell motifs, little seahorse spreaders, silver starfish napkin rings, and ocean themed napkins. One of my favourite ocean inspired accessories they carry is a pair of mermaid bookends.

I love the nautical color scheme. The contrast between the white, blue and red is so crisp.  Adding linens of these colors in casual modern or sophisticated prints is a good way to bring in the nautical theme along with some great accessories.

The POSHSHOP at Morgan Crossing, also in South Surrey, has a wonderful selection of nautical accessories. Besides what you see in this gorgeous vignette, they have silver starfish and crabs and beautiful framed vintage flags which would compliment any nautical display perfectly.

I hope surrounding yourself with things of the ocean will rekindle good memories of warm days spent at the beach and on the water. I also hope that you will find some new treasures this summer as you comb the beaches and gift shops!

by Christina Kristensen
Contributor

Photo Credits:

Top image: hubpages.com
Middle Image: countryliving.com
Bottom Image: Christina's own