BREEZY ISLAND DESIGN
Norris Home Furnishings brings the beach to your home
Those of us living in Southwest Florida may feel very fortunate to call this tropical paradise home, even if only for part of the year. We often strive to embrace the wonderful aspects of the area— warm sun, swaying palms, sandy beaches, refreshing Gulf breezes and shimmering blue waters— in any way we can.
Living in this environment can even inspire us to bring the natural colors and textures of the Sunshine State into our homes. Dark woods and heavy, large- scale pieces that are so beautiful and well- suited to northern home design can seem heavy and out of place in an island or a coastal setting.
New Florida residents tend to start fresh with home décor selections to create a more relaxed, carefree vibe. In my experience, clients often want their homes to have a vacation getaway feel, and so they seek change from their previous furnishing styles and accessories. As a designer, my job is to assist my clients with this transition.
What exactly is island style, and how do we achieve this look in our homes? Overall, it is natural and organic. It has a direct connection to nature and incorporates references to the outside environment with native bird prints, tropical foliage or other reminders of the surrounding Southwest Florida beauty.
A ROOM DONE IN NAVY AND WHITE IS ALWAYS CLASSIC, BUT CORAL AND YELLOW ACCENTS ADD A FRESH AND UNEXPECTED FEEL.
Even within island style, the design can change dramatically from British West Indies with rich mahogany finishes to the Tommy Bahama laid- back look, with a touch of Asian influence.
Island style falls into two major categories: tropical and coastal cottage. Each is distinct in characteristics, but both share certain elements. Overall color schemes vary, but greens, blues and coral are popular in both groups.
Pairing bold colors such as turquoise, lime and bright yellow with fun tropical prints can create a fun and energetic ambience. To achieve the soothing energy of an island spa, use the opposite side of the spectrum and combine soft, subtle colors such as warm taupes and whites with rich wood tones. Mix textures to provide a balance between fabric and wood, and accent with accessories containing glass or mirrors for a little “sun- on- the- water” shimmer. Window treatments complete the look, especially wooden plantation shutters or blinds.
The tropical style is a classic in Southwest Florida, and often includes the use of organic materials such as bamboo or teak for tables, dressers and accent chairs. Other natural materials like jute and sea grass appear in area rugs, and bamboo works beautifully in fabrics. Dramatically different and exciting design outcomes can be achieved.
On the other hand, the coastal cottage theme has grown in popularity over the years. Reminiscent of Nantucket or the Hamptons, this style often conveys a timeless, beachy feel with mix- matched finishes. Different elements such as driftwood, painted surfaces and casual fabrics can achieve an eclectic, simple and versatile appearance. To further enhance this comfortable, relaxed setting, use cotton slipcovers on sofas and chairs. Color palettes for the coastal cottage approach vary, but navy blue is beginning to become more common. A room done in navy and white is always classic, but coral and yellow accents add a fresh and unexpected feel.
Flooring is an important room feature regardless of material preference, but the use of porcelain tile that resembles wood continues to grow in popularity. This tile is very durable, standing up to sand and shells that are often tracked in from the outdoors. These tiles come in a wide range of colors and textures that can add warmth to any part of the house. Add a jute area rug, slipcovered sofa, driftwood table and colorful throw pillows for a great start to a perfectly decorated coastal cottage room.
And let’s not forget the outdoor living factor. After all, that’s why we are here. Today’s great new outdoor furniture designs can provide a smooth and beautiful transition from great
THE TROPICAL STYLE IS A CLASSIC IN SOUTHWEST FLORIDA, AND OFTEN INCLUDES THE USE OF ORGANIC MATERIALS SUCH AS BAMBOO OR TEAK FOR TABLES, DRESSERS AND ACCENT CHAIRS.
room to lanai. The garden and patio furniture lines carried by Norris Home Furnishings are made for comfort, elegance and durability in a tropical environment. Look for curved sectionals, buffets, bars, dining and bistro tables and much more, all with gorgeous fabrics and customizable finishes.
Whichever island style is preferred, the important thing is to identify the look and furnishings that suit your family and lifestyle. Finally, be sure to include elements such as family photos, artwork and a favorite antique to add a personal touch to your Southwest Florida home. Norris Home Furnishings interior designer and TOTI Media guest contributor Liz Sieberkrob is a graduate of Southwest Florida College Institute of Interior Design. She loves helping island clients at the Norris Sanibel showroom achieve interiors that escape the ordinary.