Keep that beach vibe glowing

There’s nothing like the beach: Cool breezes, bright sunshine, sandcastles, shells and fossils. Whether you have just come from the seaside or are planning to head out between now and Labor Day, bringing a little of that flavor into your home can help preserve memories. Here are some simple ways to beach up your home — for the summer or year-round.

“When we go to the beach, we feel relaxed and casual,” says Kelley Flynn of Kelley Flynn Interior Design in Oakland. “We notice the sun creating points of light on the waves, we feel the sand in our toes — so many visual and tactile feelings. So most importantly, I would think about ways to create this feeling in any selections I would make.”

Color is a good place to start, according to Flynn.

“Look for ways to incorporate beach colors into fabrics and materials — sandy neutrals paired with blues and teals” are a good idea, she notes. As an example, “using neutral fabrics on upholstered pieces” like sofas and armchairs, “is a classic approach. … Sea-colored pillows or throws” can complete the effect.

For a room that is already awash in neutrals, consider blue or green accent pieces such as decorative objects or tabletop decorations.

Wall art is another option.

Flynn suggests “abstract landscape paintings which incorporate water or sea blues.”

If the idea sounds expensive, take heart.

“I like to scour secondhand stores or flea markets for original paintings which can often be had for very little investment,” Flynn notes.

Pursue a less formal mood when it comes to furnishings.

“Use furniture pieces that feel casual, not too precious — and tactile. (For example), a rustic wood table or a rattan or wicker chair” can help invoke the spirit of the summery outdoors.

Window and floor coverings can also help promote a seaside mood.

“Matchstick or tortoise shell window shades can often be found at good prices,” says Flynn, “and can help create a summer cottage feel. Sisals, seagrass and other textured naturals for rugs are often (an) easy and cost-effective approach. …The natural materials evoke sand, and along with neutral upholstery, can be a great neutral canvas.”

And a neutral canvas practically cries out for colorful indoor accessories.

“Look for ways to bring in accessory items that evoke water and colors of the shore: Things like glass vases, or blue chinoiserie, maybe a rope doorstop. A beautifully arranged collection of shells or a piece of coral — even a collection of antique blue plates hung on a wall in a pleasing arrangement,” can invoke memories of a day by the sea, offers Flynn.

When it comes to materials, there’s one in particular that bears a special relationship to sand.

“Glass in general reflects light and creates space,” Flynn observes. A “lamp with a glass base and natural linen shades would be a piece I would probably try to incorporate.”

Manipulating natural light is another consideration.

“Understand the quality of light in your room,” advises Flynn. “Sheer drapes can create a breezy feel” reminiscent of the seashore. She goes further.

“If you don’t have as much light as you’d like, look for ways to reflect the light around the room, maybe using mirrors to reflect the view from a window or a painting.”

Spending time at the beach can create profound sense memories. Infusing your indoor decor with colors and materials reminiscent of a seashore visit can help preserve precious memories while inspiring new ones.